What to Do in Juneau, Alaska in One Day: A Complete Guide

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Hey there, fellow adventurers! If you’re following along, you know we’ve been sailing the stunning seas on the Norwegian Bliss. Our travels brought us to the charming city of Juneau, Alaska, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

What to Do in Juneau, Alaska in One Day: A Complete Guide

With only one day to soak in all of its glory, we packed in as much as we could, and I’m thrilled to share the highlights and must-dos for your whirlwind Juneau excursion.

Table of Contents

Helicopter and Dogsled Thrill on Mendenhall Glacier

Juneau, Alaska, our favorite stop on our once-in-a-lifetime Norwegian cruise, brought an excursion that tops the charts of my travel experiences. The Dogsled Glacier Adventure by Helicopter is something I can’t recommend enough.

Picture this, soaring over breathtaking mountains, sweeping views of the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, and then, dogsledding across its icy expanse.

It sounds like something out of a movie, but it was our own real-life adventure story.

For our Juneau Dogsled Excursion, we flew in a helicopter to reach our excursion location. The helicopter ride itself was an unforgettable experience. Seeing the grandeur of Juneau’s landscapes from above was like stepping into a living postcard of pure wilderness.

Dogsledding on a glacier in Juneau Alaska

Mendenhall Glacier is a sightseeing destination for many tourists. We were thrilled to see it firsthand, standing on it.

Touching down we were greeted by a chorus of barks from the most adorable Alaskan Husky puppies. This part of the excursion wasn’t just exciting—it was heartwarming. Meeting and learning about our sled dogs was so fun.

In the end, our Jueneau Dogsled Excursion was like three adventure trips in one, so I highly recommend it as a great value for your money.

Juneau from the Sky Without the Sleds

helicopter ride to a glacier in Juneau Alaska

Now, if dogsledding isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry. Another helicopter excursion without the dogsledding still offers the magnificent glacier experience at a more leisurely pace.

On the Helicopter Glacier Walkabout, you’ll get the same thrilling flight over the Juneau Icefield and land directly on the glacier. It’s a surreal moment when you step out onto the ice. The guided walkabout provides an intimate look at the glacier’s crevasses, seracs, and deep blue moulins—nature’s art at its finest.

Whale Watching Wonders

When you consider what to do in Juneau, Alaska you have to think about whale watching. These majestic creatures are synonymous with Alaska’s wildlife, and Juneau offers some of the best whale-watching experiences available.

So, if whale watching is your heart’s desire for your one day in Juneau, Alaska, I recommend one of these Norwegian Cruise adventures.

Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari

If taking portraits of your kids has gone from a hobby to a passion like mine, then you’ll love combining the thrill of photography with the splendor of whale watching. I encourage you to try the Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari.

With expert guidance, you’ll learn to capture the breaching whales in perfect form, creating memories that are as vivid in pictures as they are in your mind.

Discover Alaska’s Whales

The second excursion, aptly named Discover Alaska’s Whales, takes you on a journey to the favored haunts of Juneau’s whale population. Here, it’s not just about seeing the whales but understanding their behaviors, their migrations, and their importance to the Alaskan ecosystem.

Guides on board share stories and facts that enrich the viewing experience, making every spout and tail slap part of a larger story unfolding in the deep blue.

Canoeing Adventures: Paddle Among Whales

If you are looking for a bit more of a challenge, or you have older children seeking adventure, I recommend the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek. This unique adventure canoeing in Juneau is not just any paddling expedition; it’s a chance to glide alongside whales! That’s right, you can be in a canoe, paddling through the serene waters, and have these gentle giants accompany you. It’s an intimate way to connect with Alaska’s marine life and see Juneau’s natural beauty from a whole new perspective.

What to Do in Juneau, Alaska on Your Own

If you don’t want to pay for an excursion and you’re wondering what to do in Jueneau Alaska, I have a few must-know suggestions for great eats, sweet treats, and unique shopping experiences.

Best Places to Eat in Juneau

Tracy’s King Crab Shack: A must-visit for seafood lovers. Known for its succulent king crab legs, this local favorite offers a taste of the sea that’s both fresh and delicious. Don’t miss their famous crab bisque!
The Rookery Café: Perfect for a cozy lunch, this café serves up creative, locally sourced dishes. Their menu changes seasonally, ensuring a unique dining experience with every visit.
Deckhand Dave’s: If you’re looking for a casual yet tasty meal, Deckhand Dave’s is the place to go. Their fish tacos and fried halibut are particularly popular. Best of all they pride themselves on getting the freshest, sustainably sourced fish.

Best Places for Dessert in Juneau

Alaskan Fudge Company: Satisfy your sweet tooth with their wide range of homemade fudges. The delightful aroma and irresistible taste make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Heritage Coffee Roasting Co.: Along with excellent coffee, they offer a variety of baked goods. A perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon break.
Glacier Smoothie Soaps LLC: While not an edible dessert, this unique shop offers handcrafted soaps made with glacial silt. It’s a sweet treat for your skin, making for a unique and fragrant souvenir.

Where to Shop in Juneau

Juneau’s Historic Downtown: Stroll through the picturesque streets and explore a variety of shops selling local arts, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s perfect for finding unique Alaskan keepsakes.
Taku Smokeries/Fisheries: For those who want to taste Alaska home, Taku Smokeries offers a range of smoked salmon and seafood products that are easy to pack and transport.
Kindred Post: A quirky combination of a post office and a gift shop, Kindred Post offers a selection of local artwork, jewelry, and small gifts. It’s a great place to find something out of the ordinary.

Additional Juneau, Alaska Tips

Evening Strolls: Juneau’s waterfront and Douglas Island offer serene evening strolls with stunning views, perfect after dinner.
Local Breweries: Check out local breweries like Alaskan Brewing Co. for a taste of regional craft beers.
Cultural Experiences: Visit the Sealaska Heritage Institute or the Alaska State Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Final Tips for What to Do in Juneau, Alaska for One Day

Juneau is a must-see on any trip to Alaska, and when it comes to what to do in Juneau, Alaska for one day I have some final tips to make your day perfect.

Pro-tips for a Perfect Day:

Plan Ahead: Excursions can fill up quickly, especially the unique dogsledding adventure and whale-watching tours. Book early to secure your spot.
Layer Up: The Alaskan weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for changes throughout the day.
Stay Charged: Keep your camera or phone fully charged. Bring a phone charger with you. You’ll want to capture every moment, from glaciers to whale tails.
Mind the Time: Watch your time carefully; the ship won’t wait for late returners. But if you book your excursion through Norwegian Cruise Line they will be sure you are onboard before disembarking the port.

Remember, when debating what to do in Juneau, Alaska the right answer for you and your crew may vary. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, let Juneau’s natural splendor guide you to the experiences that call your name. As I watched the shores disappear from the deck of the Norwegian Bliss, I dreamt about what adventure I may choose if we came back with the children to this slice of Alaskan paradise. After all, Juneau is a place where memories are made and adventures are just waiting to be continued.