Juneau Seawalk - people on beach during daytime
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Juneau Seawalk

4.6
·491k reviews·Juneau, United States

Juneau's Seawalk offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty, rich Indigenous art, and the chance to witness magnificent marine life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Juneau Seawalk - people on beach during daytime

Juneau Seawalk

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Juneau's Seawalk offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty, rich Indigenous art, and the chance to witness magnificent marine life.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Seawalk is a must-do for its art, culture, and proximity to incredible whale watching opportunities!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Skip the Cruise Line Tours

Book excursions in port for better prices. Save cash for shopping and local eats! :moneybag:

Walk to the Whale Fountain

It's a pleasant, flat walk from the closest docks. Keep the water on your left! :walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Whale Fountain

The Whale Fountain

Juneau Seawalk

A majestic upright whale statue that spouts water, a popular photo op and a symbol of Juneau's marine life.

Totem Poles & Public Art

Totem Poles & Public Art

Juneau Seawalk & Sealaska Heritage Institute

Discover intricate totem poles and vibrant murals, including one honoring Elizabeth Peratrovich, showcasing rich Indigenous culture.

Whale Watching Excursions

Whale Watching Excursions

Juneau Harbors

Embark on a thrilling adventure to spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life in their natural Alaskan habitat.

Mendenhall Glacier Views

Mendenhall Glacier Views

Near Juneau

Witness the grandeur of a massive glacier, with opportunities for hiking and viewing Nugget Falls nearby.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Juneau's weather can change rapidly. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes for exploring the Seawalk and surrounding areas. Don't let a little rain deter you from experiencing the stunning coastal beauty and wildlife.

Timing is Everything

While the Seawalk is accessible year-round, whale watching tours are most active during the summer months. Consider booking excursions in advance, especially during peak cruise season, to secure your spot and potentially save money compared to onboard bookings.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Whale activity often peaks
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#greenscreen #Alaska #AlaskaCruise #JuneauAlaska #Juneau #Totem #KootéeyaaDeiyí #Kootéeyaa #TotemTrail #DecolonizeTravel #CulturalTourism
@notoriousraven
91.3K likes • 386.1K views

Skip the Cruise Line Tours

Book excursions in port for better prices. Save cash for shopping and local eats! :moneybag:

Walk to the Whale Fountain

It's a pleasant, flat walk from the closest docks. Keep the water on your left! :walking:

A cruise ship stop in Juneau, Alaska, got a little more exciting than passengers probably expected when the Celebrity Cruises ship “Celebrity Edge” broke from its moorings and started drifting away from the dock. Here's how a sudden severe storm caused the scary incident. #TheWeatherChannel #fyp #fail #caughtoncamera #pov #cruise #cruiseship #severe #severeweather #weathertok #weather #weatherchan...
@weatherchannel
56.8K likes • 4.5M views
Another day in Juneau, capital of Alaska. #TheLastFrontier #LaÚltimaFrontera #Seawalk #Juneau #Alaska #USA
rogemmanuelreyes
6 likes • 36 views

Dress in Layers

Juneau weather is unpredictable. Waterproof gear is a must! :umbrella:

Explore Beyond the Dock

Venture to the Seawalk for art and culture, or take a shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier. :bus:

Moments from a misty walk on the Seawalk. #seawalk #humpbackwhales #juneau #juneaualaska #walkontheboardwalk #mistybeach #adventure
alishalclark
1 likes • 24 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Skip the Cruise Line Tours

Book excursions in port for better prices. Save cash for shopping and local eats! :moneybag:

Walk to the Whale Fountain

It's a pleasant, flat walk from the closest docks. Keep the water on your left! :walking:

Dress in Layers

Juneau weather is unpredictable. Waterproof gear is a must! :umbrella:

Explore Beyond the Dock

Venture to the Seawalk for art and culture, or take a shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier. :bus:

Tracy's Crab Shack Hack

Hit Shack 2 for the same delicious crab with shorter lines. :crab:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Juneau's stunning natural beauty, particularly the opportunities for whale watching and the impressive Mendenhall Glacier. The Seawalk's public art and cultural installations are also frequently highlighted as unique and engaging experiences. Some travelers note that weather can be a factor, and advise booking excursions independently for better value.

What People Like

Incredible whale sightings
Scenic Seawalk art
Majestic Mendenhall Glacier

What People Dislike

Unpredictable weather
Expensive cruise excursions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Juneau Seawalk is easily accessible on foot from most cruise ship docks. For the whale fountain, it's about a 10-minute walk from the closest docks and a 45-minute walk from the furthest. The path is flat and keeps the water on your left. Reddit

Yes, shuttle buses are available from the cruise port to Mendenhall Glacier. Booking these independently upon arrival can be more cost-effective than cruise line excursions. TikTok+1

No, Mendenhall Glacier is several miles from the Seawalk and downtown Juneau. You'll need to take a shuttle, taxi, or join a tour to get there. TikTok

Juneau is walkable downtown. For attractions like Mendenhall Glacier, you can use local buses, taxis, or rent a car. TikTok

While there isn't a dedicated 'tourist bus,' the local public transit system can get you to key areas like Mendenhall Glacier. Check the Juneau public transportation schedules for routes and times. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Juneau Seawalk itself is a public promenade and does not require tickets for access. You can stroll along it freely. Instagram

Prices vary, but booking tours in port rather than through your cruise line can save you money. Expect to pay around $80-$150 per person, depending on the tour length and operator. TikTok

While viewing the glacier from the visitor center area may have a fee, hiking trails like the West Glacier Trail are often free to access. TikTok

Yes, many tour operators have kiosks near the cruise docks offering same-day bookings for whale watching, Mendenhall Glacier tours, and more. TikTok

Absolutely! Walking the Seawalk, admiring the public art, and hiking some trails around Mendenhall Glacier (like the West Glacier Trail) are free. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Seawalk features public art installations, including totem poles and murals, as well as the iconic whale fountain. It's a pleasant stroll with coastal views. Instagram+1

Whale sightings are very common, especially during the summer months. Humpback whales are frequently spotted, and orcas are also seen. TikTok+1

Besides whales, you might see seals, sea lions, eagles, and even bears, particularly near Mendenhall Glacier. TikTok

The Seawalk is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Given Juneau's variable weather, layers and waterproof outerwear are highly recommended. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Tracy's Crab Shack is a popular spot for king crab legs and other seafood. Consider visiting their 'Shack 2' to avoid long lines. TikTok

Yes, downtown Juneau, near the Seawalk, offers various dining options, from casual seafood shacks to pubs and cafes. TikTok

King crab legs are a signature dish. You might also find local salmon dishes and other Alaskan specialties. TikTok

Juneau has a growing craft beer scene with several breweries offering local brews. TikTok

Yes, there are numerous cafes and casual eateries in downtown Juneau offering snacks, coffee, and light meals. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The whale fountain, totem poles, murals, Mendenhall Glacier, and of course, any whale sightings are prime photo subjects. Instagram+1

Early mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, dramatic misty conditions can also create unique photographic opportunities. Instagram

The Seawalk offers great views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. For Mendenhall Glacier, the visitor center and Nugget Falls trail provide excellent vantage points. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the glacier, and a telephoto lens is great for wildlife. Don't forget a waterproof bag! Instagram

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the totem poles and murals along the Seawalk. They are part of the public art experience. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Juneau offers engaging experiences for families. The whale fountain on the Seawalk is a fun, interactive spot for kids to enjoy. Whale watching tours can be a highlight, offering the chance to see incredible marine life. TikTok+1 Many tours are family-friendly, but consider the duration for younger children. TikTok

For a more hands-on experience, exploring the Mendenhall Glacier area provides opportunities for short, manageable hikes and learning about glaciers at the visitor center. Packing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, and dressing in layers will ensure everyone stays comfortable despite Juneau's changeable weather. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Juneau can be explored affordably by prioritizing free activities. Walking the Juneau Seawalk to admire the public art, including totem poles and murals, costs nothing. Instagram+1 Opting for independent shuttle services to Mendenhall Glacier instead of expensive cruise line excursions can save significant money. TikTok

Look for local eateries that offer good value, like Tracy's Crab Shack (consider Shack 2 to avoid lines). TikTok Many of the most memorable experiences, like spotting wildlife from shore or enjoying the scenic views, are free or low-cost. Researching local bus routes can also be a budget-friendly way to get around. TikTok

🚶 Solo Travelers

Juneau is a welcoming city for solo adventurers. The Seawalk offers a safe and scenic environment for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and admire the public art at your own pace. Instagram+1 Joining a whale watching tour is a fantastic way to meet other travelers and share in the excitement of spotting marine life. TikTok

Consider taking a shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier for a solo exploration of its trails and visitor center. This provides ample opportunity for personal reflection and enjoying the natural beauty. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers; Alaskans are often friendly and happy to share tips. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Juneau's Rich Cultural Heritage

Juneau's Seawalk is more than just a scenic path; it's a gateway to understanding the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Along the Seawalk, you'll find impressive totem poles that tell stories and represent clan lineage. These are not just historical artifacts but living expressions of Indigenous art and tradition. TikTokInstagram

Don't miss the Elizabeth Peratrovich mural, a vibrant tribute to the Tlingit civil rights activist who was instrumental in advocating for Indigenous rights in Alaska. This mural, along with other public art installations, highlights the ongoing presence and contributions of Indigenous artists and communities in Juneau. Visiting the Sealaska Heritage Institute nearby offers further opportunities to engage with and learn about Southeast Alaska Native cultures. Instagram

These cultural sites provide a deeper context for your visit, moving beyond typical tourist attractions to offer a more meaningful and respectful engagement with the place and its people. It's a chance to learn about the history, art, and ongoing cultural practices of the region's Indigenous inhabitants.

The Thrill of Whale Watching in Juneau

Juneau is renowned as one of the best places in Alaska for whale watching, with humpback whales being the most commonly sighted species. These magnificent creatures are often seen feeding and breaching in the nutrient-rich waters. Tours typically depart from the local harbors and can last anywhere from 3 to 5 hours. TikTok+1

Beyond humpbacks, keep an eye out for orcas, sea lions, harbor seals, and various seabirds. Many tour operators offer guaranteed sightings, meaning if you don't see whales, you might get a voucher for a future trip. It's advisable to book your whale watching excursion in advance, especially during the peak summer season, to ensure availability and potentially secure better rates than booking directly through your cruise ship. TikTok

Remember to dress warmly and in layers, as it can be chilly on the water, even in summer. Waterproof gear is also a good idea, as spray from the ocean and occasional rain are common. The experience of witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable. Instagram

Navigating Juneau's Natural Wonders: Mendenhall Glacier

A visit to Juneau wouldn't be complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier. This massive river of ice, located about 13 miles from downtown, offers stunning views and various activities. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center provides excellent interpretive displays and information about the glacier's history and the surrounding ecosystem. TikTok+1

For a closer look, consider hiking trails like the West Glacier Trail or the path to Nugget Falls. These trails offer different perspectives of the glacier and its surroundings, with Nugget Falls providing a picturesque waterfall backdrop. Be prepared for potentially muddy and uneven terrain, and always stay on marked paths for safety. TikTok

Getting to Mendenhall Glacier is straightforward. Shuttle services are readily available from the cruise port, offering a convenient and often more affordable option than booking through cruise lines. Planning your visit to Mendenhall Glacier allows for an immersive experience in Alaska's raw, natural beauty.

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