DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery
Witness the incredible salmon life cycle at this vital conservation center, featuring underwater viewing and interactive marine exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak salmon migration
DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery
Best Time
Peak salmon migration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the incredible salmon life cycle at this vital conservation center, featuring underwater viewing and interactive marine exhibits.
"Super fun and educational for the kids showing every step in the migration of salmon!"
Don't Miss the Salmon Run!
Plan your visit for late summer/early fall to see thousands of salmon returning to spawn.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive touch tanks and exhibits make it a hit with families and kids.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Salmon Ladder Window
Visitor Center
Watch thousands of salmon navigate their way upstream through a unique underwater viewing window.
Interactive Touch Tanks
Visitor Center
Get hands-on with local marine life like sea stars, crabs, and sea cucumbers.
Salmon Life Cycle Exhibits
Visitor Center
Learn about the incredible journey of salmon from egg to adult through engaging displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Salmon Sightings
Beyond the Hatchery: Nearby Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Don't Miss the Salmon Run!
Plan your visit for late summer/early fall to see thousands of salmon returning to spawn.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive touch tanks and exhibits make it a hit with families and kids. 
Educational Experience
Learn about salmon conservation and their vital role in Alaska's ecosystem.
Combine with Salmon Bake
Cross the street for a delicious all-you-can-eat salmon feast at Gold Creek Salmon Bake. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Don't Miss the Salmon Run!
Plan your visit for late summer/early fall to see thousands of salmon returning to spawn.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive touch tanks and exhibits make it a hit with families and kids.
Educational Experience
Learn about salmon conservation and their vital role in Alaska's ecosystem.
Combine with Salmon Bake
Cross the street for a delicious all-you-can-eat salmon feast at Gold Creek Salmon Bake. +1
Check Reopening Status
The visitor center has reopened, but always check their website for current hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery for its educational value and the exciting opportunity to see thousands of salmon. The interactive exhibits and touch tanks are particularly popular with families. While the hatchery itself is a highlight, its proximity to the Gold Creek Salmon Bake enhances the overall experience.
"It was so awesome to stop by and see so many fish. Really enjoyed this visit. Highly recommend. Amazing! Then you can cross the street and have dinner at the salmon. Bake in the beautiful forest."
MKB
"Super fun and educational for the kids showing every step in the migration of salmon from egg to hatching and imprinting, swim to sea and return to spawn. Nice visitor center and aquarium. Great fishing on dock next to hatchery"
M Hendershot
"What a great tour and learning center. The mission of the non profit organization is "to sustain and enhance the valuable Salmon resources" and THE really do that mission. They spawn, fertilize, and hatch MILLIONS of eggs from all 5 salmon species. They don't waste the fish as they sell the bodies for packing and to add as a revenue stream for the operations. Everybody wins. They even allow fishing right before their return fish ladders. As Salmon released from here return to spawn they have Thousands of returning fish each season. They offer a "Hands on" tank for other sea creatures like crabs and star fish. Take the kids as this program is for all ages."
John Thompson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The hatchery is located just a short drive or taxi ride from downtown Juneau. Many visitors arrive via cruise ship excursions. If you're driving, follow signs for the hatchery.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available at the DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery for visitors.
While it's a bit of a walk, it's possible to reach the hatchery from the cruise port. Many opt for a taxi or a pre-booked tour for convenience.
Yes, many Juneau tour operators, including those offering floatplane tours or salmon bakes, often include a stop at the hatchery.
Renting a car or using local taxis are good options for exploring Juneau and reaching attractions like the hatchery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the visitor center and viewing areas is generally free, though donations are appreciated to support their conservation efforts.
The Ladd Macaulay Visitor Center has reopened. It's best to check their official website for the most current summer hours before your visit.
While the hatchery's primary mission is conservation, they do rely on donations. Check their website for any specific entry fees or donation suggestions.
Yes, fishing is often permitted on the dock next to the hatchery, especially as salmon return to the ladders.
Information on group rates or family discounts is not widely advertised, but it's always worth contacting the hatchery directly if you have a large group.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can observe salmon in their natural migration through the salmon ladder window, explore interactive touch tanks with marine life, and learn about the salmon life cycle through exhibits. +1
The peak salmon run typically occurs from late summer through early fall, offering the best chance to see large numbers of fish.
Absolutely! The interactive exhibits and hands-on touch tanks are a huge hit with kids, making it a very family-friendly destination. +1
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours at the hatchery, depending on their interest in the exhibits and the activity of the salmon.
While there are informative displays, dedicated guided tours are not always explicitly mentioned. However, staff are often available to answer questions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hatchery itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant, but there are often snacks or vending machines available.
The famous Gold Creek Salmon Bake is conveniently located across the street, offering an all-you-can-eat salmon experience. +1
The Salmon Bake is known for its all-you-can-eat Alaskan salmon, often served with sides like salads, cornbread, and beans. +1
Juneau offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants, many of which are located downtown.
Picnic areas may be available, but it's best to check with the hatchery staff regarding their policy on outside food.
📸 📸 Photography
The salmon ladder window offers unique underwater shots of salmon. The surrounding natural beauty and the interactive tanks also provide great photo ops.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the visitor center, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography conditions.
Yes, you can take photos of the salmon and other marine life in the tanks and viewing areas.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around wildlife areas and visitor centers. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The engaging exhibits on the salmon life cycle are also very educational and presented in a way that keeps young minds interested. Combine your visit with a meal at the nearby Gold Creek Salmon Bake for a complete family outing. The hatchery's accessible layout and the sheer wonder of seeing thousands of salmon make it a memorable experience for children of all ages.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts
Witnessing the salmon return to spawn through the salmon ladder window is a captivating sight. Additionally, the opportunity to fish on the dock next to the hatchery provides a hands-on experience with Alaska's abundant marine life.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Consider pairing your hatchery visit with other nearby attractions like the Gold Creek Salmon Bake for a well-rounded shore excursion. The hatchery's educational value and visual appeal make it a worthwhile addition to any Juneau itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Incredible Salmon Life Cycle
Visitors can witness this remarkable journey firsthand. The hatchery's exhibits detail each stage: the egg, the alevin, the fry, the smolt, and finally, the adult salmon returning to spawn. Understanding this cycle highlights the importance of the hatchery's work in supporting both the ecosystem and local communities.
The hatchery's mission extends beyond just raising fish; they also ensure that no part of the salmon is wasted. The adult salmon that return to spawn are utilized for packing and as a revenue stream, contributing to the hatchery's operational sustainability. This comprehensive approach ensures that the valuable salmon resources are managed responsibly.
Experiencing Juneau's Culinary Scene: Salmon Bake
The atmosphere at the Salmon Bake is typically rustic and set within a beautiful forest environment, making it a scenic place to enjoy a meal. Beyond the salmon, the buffet often includes a variety of sides such as salads, cornbread, and beans, catering to diverse tastes. It's a perfect way to cap off a visit to the hatchery.
For those looking for unique local flavors, Juneau also offers other culinary adventures. For instance, Jellyfish Donuts has been noted for its creative offerings, including a salmon-flavored donut, showcasing the city's innovative approach to local ingredients.
Conservation and Community Impact
+1By hatching millions of eggs from all five Pacific salmon species, the hatchery ensures a robust population for both commercial and recreational fishing. This conservation effort is crucial for the long-term viability of salmon stocks, which are a cornerstone of Alaskan culture and sustenance.
The hatchery also serves as an educational hub, providing invaluable learning opportunities for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of the salmon life cycle and the importance of conservation efforts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit