Juneau, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska is a city of stunning natural beauty, with a dramatic landscape of glaciers, mountains, and a rich history as a gold rush town. As the capital of Alaska, it is a fantastic destination for cruisers who want to experience the state's rugged beauty and a lively, historic downtown. The city is a perfect blend of a bustling port and a gateway to some of the world's most incredible natural wonders, from the majestic Mendenhall Glacier to the magnificent humpback whales that frequent its waters.
⛵ Port Introduction
Juneau has four main docking areas, most of which are conveniently located in the heart of downtown. Your ship will likely dock at one of the main piers (AS, CT, or FKL Docks) in the center of town. If you are at one of these piers, you can simply walk right off the ship and into the city, with a short stroll to all the main attractions. If your ship docks at the AJ Dock, which is about a mile from downtown, a free shuttle bus service runs regularly to take you to the downtown cruise terminal.
⚓ Terminal Information
The main docks are an open-air setup with a lively atmosphere. While there is no large, permanent terminal building at the main docks, you'll find a variety of small shops, kiosks, and vendors right on the waterfront. The AJ Dock has a more formal setup with a terminal building.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
At the main docks, you'll find a variety of small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts, as well as cafes and a tourist information point. The Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway is located right across from the main docks and is a popular meeting point for many tours. The area also has restrooms and other basic facilities.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. You will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring the area.
💰 Money
The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases, but it is not necessary. ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city.
🚗 Transportation
Juneau's downtown is very walkable, and its main attractions are clustered in the city center.
· Walking: The best way to explore downtown is on foot. The historic buildings, shops, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance of the main cruise docks.
· Shuttle Bus: If your ship docks at the AJ Dock, a free shuttle bus will take you to the downtown area.
· Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal and are a good option for getting to places outside the downtown area, like the Mendenhall Glacier.
· Public Bus: Juneau has a public bus system, Capital Transit, which is a very affordable way to get around the city.
· Tours: Many of the main attractions are outside the downtown area, and a tour is often the best way to see them. You can book a tour to the Mendenhall Glacier, for whale watching, or to see the Alaskan wilderness.
♿ Accessibility
Juneau has an accessibility rating of 4 out of 10. The downtown area is generally compact and the main streets are level, but many of the areas have hills. Curbs are standard and handicapped parking spaces are located throughout town. The city's public bus system has several buses equipped with wheelchair lifts. However, many of the main attractions, like the Mendenhall Glacier, have some trails that are not easily accessible for people with limited mobility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
If you are docked at the main piers, the best way to get to town is to simply walk. You are already in the heart of the city. If you are at the AJ Dock, the best way to get to town is to take the free shuttle bus.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Juneau, especially at major tourist attractions, shopping centers, and museums. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
· Safeway Pharmacy: 3033 Vintage Blvd., Juneau, AK 99801. This is a short taxi ride from the cruise terminal.
· SEARHC Ethel Lund Medical Center Pharmacy: 1200 Salmon Creek Lane, Juneau, AK 99801.
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Dine on Local Alaskan Seafood: Juneau is a foodie's paradise, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced Alaskan seafood. Seek out a local restaurant like Tracy's King Crab Shack for a delicious king crab bucket or Deckhand Dave's for fresh fish tacos.
2. Take a Walk to the Mendenhall Glacier: The Mendenhall Glacier is a must-see. You can take a shuttle or a taxi to the visitor center, where you can see the glacier from a variety of viewpoints. For a more immersive experience, you can take a boat tour or a kayaking trip to get an up-close perspective.
3. Explore the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway and the Local Sights: The Mount Roberts Tramway is a fun way to get a panoramic view of the city and the Gastineau Channel. At the top, you can find a gift shop, a raptor center, and hiking trails. For a taste of the city's history, visit the Alaska State Museum or the Red Dog Saloon.
