Summer in Southeast Alaska brings long daylight hours, active wildlife, and some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the country, making you want to be outside as much as possible! Juneau excursions are a big reason visitors fall in love with the city: these hyper-organized, guided adventures and easygoing experiences showcase glaciers, temperate rainforest, and waterways. From whale watching on the Inside Passage to riding the Mount Roberts Tramway for sweeping views, these outings turn a visit into an unforgettable vacation touring Alaska’s capital.
There are plenty of things to do in Juneau, depending if you want to spend your time on the water, on the trail, or learning about the area’s history. Kayaking near tidewater glaciers, hiking through Tongass National Forest, and small group Juneau tours that focus on wildlife or local food are all worthwhile additions to your Alaska getaways in the summer months. Depending on whether you’re traveling to Alaska via a cruise line or coming independently, there are fantastic ways to explore, even if you’re only in town for a short stint.
As with any vacation, where you stay plays a big role, and many Juneau hotels are conveniently located near downtown, making it easy to walk to restaurants, shops, and tour departure points. Alaska’s Capital Inn is the ideal destination for your adventures! You can enjoy your busy days filled with Juneau excursions, then relax in the evenings at our charming Boutique Hotel in Juneau. Owned and operated by friendly Innkeepers, you’ll have the resources and advice from the local perspective, and we can even book your Juneau excursions for you during your stay. Book your room today!
The Best Juneau Excursions to Add to Your Itinerary
Juneau excursions cover a wide range of interests, and summer is the perfect time to have your choice of all the options available. Whether you are visiting on a cruise stop or staying for several days, the best excursions in Juneau, Alaska, combine access to dramatic landscapes with knowledgeable guides who help visitors understand what they are seeing.
Wildlife encounters, glacier experiences, and locally focused tours consistently rank among the most rewarding things to do in Juneau, offering the chance to experience Alaska in a hands-on, meaningful way. Here are the best ways to experience the Last Frontier for yourself:
- Whale-watching tours are by far the most popular Juneau excursions. Summer is the prime season for spotting humpback whales as they feed in the nutrient-rich waters near Juneau. Most tours use smaller boats that allow for closer viewing while still respecting wildlife guidelines. In addition to whales, it is common to see sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles, and seabirds during these Alaska shore excursions.
- A visit to Mendenhall Glacier is often ranked number one on TripAdvisor for things to do in Juneau, Alaska. Guided tours typically include transportation from downtown, time to explore the visitor center, and a walk on the easy trail to Nugget Falls. There are a handful of Juneau tours that include guided hikes or ice-cave exploration for a closer look at the glacier’s features.
- Sea kayaking offers a quieter way to experience the waterways around Juneau. These excursions often take place near protected coves or glacier-fed inlets, where paddlers can move at a relaxed pace while taking in views of mountains and ice fields. Guides share insight about marine life and coastal ecology, making kayaking one of the best excursions in Juneau, Alaska, to learn more about the ecosystem.
- Riding the Goldbelt Tram (formerly known as the Mount Roberts Tramway) provides sweeping views of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and the surrounding peaks. At the top, visitors can explore short trails or join guided hikes that range from casual walks to more challenging routes. This is a great option for those looking for Juneau excursions that combine scenery with light activity and local interpretation.
- For a truly unforgettable experience, helicopter tours or float planes take visitors directly to remote glaciers outside Juneau. After landing, guided treks across ancient ice teach visitors about glacial movement and climate. Flightseeing is ideal for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and is often considered among the best excursions in Juneau, Alaska.
One of our favorite excursion options is UnCruise Adventures. These small-boat tours give adventurers an up-close view of many of the above options. They offer curated boat tours for multiple nights out on the water with stops at glaciers and national park areas.
Book one of the Most Welcoming Boutique Juneau Hotels
Staying at Alaska’s Capital Inn offers a more personal and memorable alternative to traditional Juneau hotels. Located within walking distance of downtown, our inn makes it easy to reach restaurants, shops, museums, and many Juneau excursions without needing a car. Our property feels welcoming from the moment you arrive, with thoughtfully designed guest rooms that reflect Juneau’s character rather than a one-size-fits-all hotel experience. After a full day spent exploring glaciers, wildlife, or the waterfront, returning to a quiet and comfortable space is a welcome end to your adventure.
Guests enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, attentive hospitality, and the kind of local insight that only decades of hosting out-of-towners and exploring the area can provide. Whether you are planning early-morning Juneau excursions or staying nearby to explore downtown Juneau, our inn provides a comfortable home base for both. With nearly 300 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, you’ll see why Alaska’s Capital Inn consistently proves to be one of the best choices for lodging in Juneau. Book your adventure today!