If you’re a frequent reader of this blog, you’ll know that I love Alaska. Our whole family fell hard for The Last Frontier during our visit in 2021 and everyone else was pretty salty that I got to return on my own in 2024. But we haven’t yet experienced southeast Alaska, an area that’s generally explored by cruising since there are no roads linking it to the rest of the state.
Today our contributor Karen of Alaska Trippers is sharing her family’s favorite things to do in Juneau with kids. The visit every year and have taken advantage of plenty of wilderness excursions, wildlife sightings, hiking trails and more. Here’s what Karen recommends for your family trip to Juneau, whether you’re visiting the city on its own or just need help choosing the best Juneau cruise excursion for families.
As Alaska’s capital city, Juneau offers an adventurous destination for families in summer. It’s one of the state’s largest cities so travelers seeking unique wilderness or cultural experiences have plenty of choices. You can choose from dog sledding on a glacier, whale watching, river rafting and more, and our family has done them all!
Whether you’re chasing bucket-list adventures or planning a budget-friendly trip, Juneau offers activities that delight kids and adults alike. A tour to see Alaskan huskies will appeal to younger children, while teens might prefer a zip line canopy adventure.
If you’re flying into Juneau, we recommend staying at least five days to enjoy all this coastal gem has to offer – be sure to read through to the end for recommendations on where to stay in Juneau with kids.
Those arriving by ship will only have a day. However, most attractions and activities are easily accessible from the port. With a long port day, you could manage up to three activities but be sure to look at the specific times your cruise ship will be in port – some leave as early as 1pm while others stick around until 11pm!
Why Juneau Is Ideal for Family Excursions
The combination of cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, and natural wonders makes Juneau an ideal family destination. Although the city is only accessible by sea and air, it doesn’t prevent over a million tourists from visiting in summer.
Abundance Of Natural Beauty
The Juneau Icefield provides opportunities for family-friendly glacier walks and helicopter tours. Soaring over a glacier or exploring massive ice formations, while not exactly budget-friendly, are bucket list activities unavailable in most lower states.
The city’s surrounding temperate rainforest offers gentle hikes suitable for all ages. The Gold Creek Flume traces the path of a historic wooden flume built in the 1890s. Its construction supported Juneau’s first hydroelectric power plant.
The Mount Roberts Tramway lifts families 1,800 feet above downtown Juneau. On clear days, the panoramic views of the Gastineau Channel and surrounding mountains are stunning.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Head to the city’s museums during wet weather days to learn about the area’s rich heritage. The Alaska State Museum highlights Native Alaskan traditions, Russian-American history, and mining heritage through interactive exhibits.
Families can explore authentic mining sites like the Last Chance Mining Museum near Gold Creek. Here, kids can get hands-on experience with historical equipment and learn about the Gold Rush era.
Educational Opportunities
The Science on a Sphere theater features rotating presentations that make learning about Earth’s systems fun and engaging for kids.
Marine life programs offer hands-on experiences, letting children explore local sea creatures through touch tanks and guided tide pool adventures.
Families can learn about glacial retreat at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and see animals that call the area home. Outside, try to spot a porcupine amongst the vegetation.
Popular Excursions for Kids In Juneau
Juneau exciting outdoor adventures combine education with entertainment for young explorers. Families skipping a tour can walk to the waterfront Whale Project to see a life-sized humpback bronze statue.
At 40 feet, “Takhu” mimics the size of a male humpback. However, females can reach 50 feet in length.
Whale Watching Adventures
If watching whales in their natural habitat is high on the to-do list, Juneau is the ideal destination to see them. From April through September, visitors can witness humpback whales breaching and feeding in Auke Bay, near Juneau.
Most whale watching tours last 3-4 hours, include heated cabin space, and come with a whale-watching guarantee. While we’ve seen many humpbacks, bald eagles and sea lions are spotted too.
Many vessels provide binoculars and hydrophones to hear whale songs underwater. Choose a small boat for intimate encounters or a larger vessel if your little ones are sensitive to motion sickness.
Note: If you have enough time, consider this tour that combines whale watching with a visit. to Mendenhall Glacier.
Rafting On Mendenhall River
Try a float trip on Mendenhall Lake to get a different perspective of Mendenhall Valley. The excursion is suitable for ages three and up. It offers terrific views of the glacier and mountains before entering the river. We always love exploring Mendenhall Valley and it was great to see it in a new way.
The rapids in Mendenhall River are mellow, and no paddling is required. Your experienced guide will do all the work while providing information on the area’s ecosystem.
Safety gear of boots, waterproof gaiters, and life jackets are provided, as well as a welcome snack at the end of the float. This tour operates rain or shine, so pack the best waterproof coats for Alaska to stay cozy and dry during your outdoor adventure.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center sits 13 miles from downtown Juneau, and the bus or trolley ride takes 30 minutes. It’s definitely worth the visit! The center features a detailed relief map showing how the glacier has moved over time. In summer, salmon and black bears are often seen from the viewing areas of Steep Creek.
We recommend the walk to Nugget Falls. The easy, flat trail is under a mile and finishes at a thunderous cascade closer to the glacier’s face.
Walking the lakeside Steep Creek Trail allows kids to touch glacial ice if the conditions are right. Another easy walk is the Trail of Time hike, perfect for children ages 5 and up. The route includes educational signs about glacial history.
Gold Creek Salmon Bake
Juneau’s Gold Creek Salmon Bake is more than a meal. Young guests can hone their skills at panning for gold in the nearby creek. A short nature trail tells the history of mining in the area and features some old mining artifacts.
This venue has large, covered areas with propane heaters, ideal when Alaska’s weather isn’t favorable. The all-you-can-eat BBQ includes fresh Coho salmon, ribs, chicken, salads, rice, and blueberry cake.
The highlight of the meal is the salmon. Eat it plain or with honey butter. Either way, you’ll want seconds.
Juneau Dog Sled Discovery
While Juneau offers dog sledding on a glacier, there’s a better option for families on a budget. Sled Dog Discovery uses wheeled sleds through forest trails. A family of four will pay less than one participant on a glacier dog sledding excursion in Juneau.
This fun-filled tour allows kids to meet real Iditarod sled dogs and learn about Alaska’s state sport. Dog handlers demonstrate commands and explain how the dogs work as a team.
Kids can hold young puppies and learn what it takes for them to become new athletes. Since glacier dog sledding tours often get canceled due to bad weather, booking the dog sled discovery excursion prevents disappointment.
Outdoor Activities For The Young
Juneau’s natural landscape provides endless opportunities for family fun. Hiking, rafting, and a salmon hatchery provide great day adventures.
Hiking Trails For All Ages
The Nugget Falls Trail offers an easy 2-mile round-trip walk suitable for children of all ages. The flat, paved path leads directly to a powerful waterfall near Mendenhall Glacier.
Another easy Juneau hiking trail is the Gold Creek Flume trail. This one, north of downtown, follows the creek that once produced the city’s hydroelectric power.
There are more hiking options for those taking the tram to the top of Mount Roberts. The ½ mile Alpine Loop Trail is the easiest route for small children at the peak. Along this route, we found carved trees and another with eyes, as if watching us. We really love hiking in this area!
Hiking up to Father Brown Cross provides better views. It’s more suitable for those who can walk further. We suggest packing lunch and enjoying a picnic at the viewpoint.
Mount Roberts Tramway Experience
The six-minute tram ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway offers some of the best views of the Gastineau Channel. While we absolutely loved the hiking trail to make the 1,800 summit, it’s challenging and I don’t recommend for young children or inexperienced hikers.
The gondola begins at the Juneau cruise ship terminal area, making it convenient for those on an Alaska cruise. During the ascent, look for bald eagles on nearby trees. At the peak, a blind eagle brings awareness to rehabilitating Alaska’s injured wildlife.
At the upper terminal, families can explore the mountain peak on short nature trails suitable for all ages. The Mountain House has cultural exhibits and sometimes features a totem pole carving demonstration.
I suggest visiting the exhibits before venturing out on trails. They feature mammals and birds that frequent the area. Larger species include black bears, Sitka Black-tailed deer, and mountain goats. In the bird family, you may see American Robins, Steller Jays, and Willow Ptarmigan, the state’s bird.
Macaulay Salmon Hatchery
Macaulay Salmon Hatchery, 4 miles northwest of downtown, offers an opportunity to see salmon. June to September is peak season when families can watch the species jumping up the fish ladder.
Hands-on exhibits document the salmon’s life cycle, and touch tanks have sea cucumbers, starfish, and other marine life. Explore independently or take a guided 45-minute tour designed to engage all ages.
Educational And Fun Attractions
Historical attractions and museums offer engaging displays that showcase the cultural history of the area.
Visit One Of Juneau’s Museums
The small Juneau-Douglas City Museum on 4th Street showcases local fishing, mining, and cultural history. Kids 12 and under get in free and can try on a hard hat to role-play as miners. Exhibits change regularly, and visitors can join free state capital walking tours or opt for longer paid excursions.
For a larger experience, the Alaska State Museum in the APK building on Whittier Street offers free admission for those 18 and under. Exhibits explore Native cultures, Russian influences, and natural history.
Younger kids can enjoy the Octopus playroom, while older ones discover actual artifacts and cultural displays. Educational programs and guided tours make history exciting for all ages.
Learn About Alaska’s Rich Mining History
The Last Chance Mining Museum, Treadwell Mine Historic Trail, and AJ Mine Gastineau Mill offer unique opportunities to explore Alaska’s rich mining history.
At the AJ Mine Gastineau Mill, group tours take you underground into what was once the world’s largest gold-producing mine. Afterward, try your hand at panning for gold—what you find, you keep!
For a more rustic experience, visit the Last Chance Mining Museum near Gold Creek, or hike the Treadwell Mine Historic Trail to discover relics like old buildings, rusted machinery, and a massive hoist.
Local Cuisine for Kids
Juneau’s family-friendly restaurants serve fresh Alaskan seafood and local treats that kids love. Here are our top picks for casual food or quick snacks.
Tracy’s King Crab Shack
Tracy’s King Crab Shack is a must-visit for families seeking authentic Alaskan king crab legs. While the waterfront restaurant always gathers a crowd, the service is fast after ordering.
Outside, kids love watching the staff handle the massive crab legs. The menu offers kid-sized portions of their famous crab cakes, and we highly recommend the delicious crab bisque.
Their buckets of crab legs are the perfect choice for a shared feast. We liked the atmosphere of Tracy’s and the bell ring after someone purchased a bucket – which was often!
Alaska Crepe Escape
This charming crepe food truck on S. Frankin Street creates both sweet and savory options perfect for young palates. Kids can watch their crepes being made right before their eyes on the large circular griddles.
However, they might have a hard time choosing between the following:
- Nutella, peanut butter, and banana crepes.
- Strawberries and cream crepes.
- Pizza-style crepes with cheese, marinara, and pepperoni.
- Alaskan crepes with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and spinach.
The portions are generous enough to share between siblings, and the staff happily accommodates special requests.
Jellyfish Donuts
Another great spot on S. Frankin Street is Jellyfish Donuts. It brings a unique Alaskan twist to classic pastries. The shop’s bright colors and ocean-themed decor instantly capture your attention.
Inside, we found the craziest flavored donuts we’ve ever seen, and many made with kids’ cereal. Foot Loops, Trix, and Fruity Pebbles on a donut? Yes, you can buy one there. The flavors change daily, so you never know what you’ll find there.
Their signature salmon and cream cheese variety might seem like an odd combination of ingredients, but they sell out fast.
Jellyfish Donuts attracts adults and kids with their quirky menu. With unusual toppings of candy, cereal, and cookies, adults can relive their childhood and play with their food.
Getting around Juneau
There are plenty of options for getting around Juneau, but which one to choose depends on what you want to do and how long you’re staying.
If you just have a few hours on a cruise stop, you may want to stick with the city’s buses, tourist trolleys and taxis – or even a pre-booked excursion. You can walk to many restaurants and museums from the port itself as well.
With a full day in Juneau or if you plan to stay for several days, you can consider renting a car to get away from the crowds. That will give you access to quieter trailheads and beaches, and an opportunity to visit popular sites when the cruise crowds aren’t there.
One thing to keep in mind about renting a car in Juneau is that the rental offices are all at the airport at this time. If you’re flying in or taking the ferry) that’s no problem! Cruise ship passengers will either need to take a bus/taxi to the airport offices or coordinate for pick up and drop off in downtown.
How far can you drive in Juneau? The entire developed area hugs the waterfront but the paved road extends for about 45 miles. The outer reaches on both ends of that road are pretty remote and mostly just offer hiking trails, but they’re lovely and rarely crowded like the trails closer to downtown.
Where to stay in Juneau with kids
Waterfront on Glacier
If you want to enjoy stunning views from your balcony, Waterfront on Glacier is an excellent choice. It’s close enough to downtown to enjoy the restaurants and sites but far enough removed that it isn’t overwhelmed with cruise tourists. All of the rooms have kitchenettes as well, so you can have a quick breakfast and pack a picnic lunch to take on your Juneau excursions. You can even select a room with laundry in it, which is perfect is you’re planning a few days in Juneau before or after a cruise.
Mendenhall Valley vacation home
For a real getaway, you can book a vacation home right on the edge of the Tongass National Forest! It puts you less than three miles from Mendenhall Glacier and there are tons of hiking and walking trails right nearby. While it’s a bit of a drive to downtown Juneau (where the cruise terminal is located), there are more “local” amenities like grocery stores and non-touristy restaurants in this area and nearby Lemon Creek. You’ll also have easy access to the airport as well as whale watching tours.
Planning your perfect trip to Alaska
Visiting Juneau by cruise ship? Be sure to read these tips:
- 6 Cruise Cabin Hacks to Make Your Stateroom More Livable
- Smooth Sailing: 6 Must-Do Tasks Before Your Cruise
- 5 Reasons You Might Hate Cruising (+ 7 Reasons You Might Love It)
Ready to dive deep into planning your vacation in Alaska? Don’t miss these helpful articles:
- Your Ultimate Alaska Itinerary: 10 Days In Anchorage & The Kenai Peninsula
- Anchorage Uncovered: Top Things to Do, Places to Stay & Fantastic Eats
- 12 Day Trips from Anchorage You’ll Never Forget
- Alaska With Kids: Unforgettable Activities and Must-Read Tips
- Renting A Car In Alaska: 9 Things You NEED To Know
- Your Complete Packing List for Alaska in Summer: Tried and Tested Advice
- Alaska Travel Tips You Should Read Before You Go
- Major Marine Kenai Fjords Cruises: A Can’t-Miss Alaska Highlight
- Alaska Car Seat Laws You Need to Know
