Juneau Ghost Walk: Explore Alaska’s Haunted Capital

This experience made our article of The 3 Best Walking Tours In Juneau.

Introduction: A Haunted Walk Through Juneau’s Darker Side

If you’re visiting Juneau, Alaska’s capital, and love stories that mix history with a touch of the supernatural, the Juneau Ghost Walk offers a fascinating evening. For $34.99 per person, you’ll spend about two hours wandering through some of Juneau’s most iconic locations, hearing tales of ghosts, cryptids, and maritime mysteries, all told by a knowledgeable guide. It’s a walk that promises to be both spine-tingling and enlightening, especially if you enjoy stories rooted in local folklore and history.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its accessibility and the variety of stories told at different historic sites. The route is wheelchair-friendly, making it easier for those with mobility challenges to join the fun. Plus, visiting sites like the Alaskan Hotel and the Red Dog Saloon means you’re walking through places that have seen everything from frontier days to modern ghostly encounters—adding layers to the stories.

A potential consideration is that, at just two hours, the tour covers quite a bit of ground, so it might be a bit packed if you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely, in-depth exploration. Still, it’s a compact way to get a broad taste of Juneau’s paranormal history without breaking the bank or the schedule.

If you’re curious about local legends, enjoy a slightly spooky atmosphere, and want an experience that combines storytelling with a quick tour of Juneau’s historic sites, this ghost walk is just right for you.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: At $34.99, it offers great value for a two-hour guided experience.
• Historic and spooky: The tour visits many of Juneau’s landmarks with haunted reputations, blending history and legend.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for ages 13 and up, with a wheelchair-accessible route.
• Authentic stories: Local residents and historians share firsthand paranormal tales that give depth and personality to each site.
• Variety of locations: From pubs to museums, the tour explores diverse venues with their own ghostly stories.
• Weather considerations: Held mostly outdoors or in open spaces, so be prepared for rain or cold in Alaska’s climate.

A Detailed Look at the Juneau Ghost Walk Experience

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour begins at the Juneau Public Library, a central spot that sets an inviting but slightly mysterious tone. Here, you’ll hear the Tlingit legend of Raven and Eagle, which underscores how storytelling and local folklore are woven into the very fabric of Juneau’s history. The story of trickster ravens mimicking voices makes you feel as though the boundary between myth and reality is surprisingly thin—perhaps even a little haunted.

Visiting the Red Dog Saloon

Next, the group heads to the Red Dog Saloon, a historic landmark that has welcomed locals and visitors since frontier days. Once a lively frontier tent, it’s now filled with artifacts and the stories of its boisterous past. Guests have reported seeing the ghost of Professor Phineas Poon, a former piano player whose spirit allegedly still haunts the place, especially around the old stage area. It’s easy to imagine the lively ambiance of days gone by, tinged with ghostly echoes.

The Lucky Lady Pub and Local Legends

A highlight of the tour is the visit to The Lucky Lady Pub, dedicated to Mary Joyce, a legendary figure known for her adventurous spirit—mushing 1,000 miles to Fairbanks in the 1930s. Here, you’ll hear about her ghostly footsteps and how her fearless legacy continues to inspire local stories. One reviewer mentioned, “The stories about Mary Joyce really made her seem alive in a way I hadn’t expected.” This site adds a personal touch, connecting history with heartfelt legend.

The Haunted Alaskan Hotel

Perhaps the most iconic stop is The Alaskan Hotel & Bar, built in 1913 and reputedly the most haunted hotel in Juneau. Guests often report seeing ghostly apparitions, notably a woman named Alice, who is said to wander the halls after a tragic end. The hotel’s history as a lively social hub, combined with tales of unexplained movements and sightings, makes it a compelling stop. It’s a vivid reminder that even in the modern world, some spirits refuse to leave.

Mountain Mysteries and Cryptid Legends

The tour also ventures outdoors to Tripp’s Mt. Juneau Trading Post, where the legend of a shapeshifting otter-man spirit persists. From here, you get a commanding view of Mt. Juneau, which once inspired dreams of a grand tramway and still fuels local folklore about mysterious creatures. The stories about cryptids add an adventurous flavor to the walk, appealing to those who love a good monster tale.

Cultural and Historic Stops

The route includes stops at the Aunt Claudia’s Doll Museum, where over 800 dolls from around the world are kept. Some believe the dolls hold the spirits of their former owners, adding an eerie vibe to an already fascinating collection. Also, at Crystal Saloon and Juneau Drug Co Inc, tales of moving objects, cold spots, and phantom music keep the atmosphere lively. The drugstore basement, which once served as a morgue after a tragic shipwreck, features reports of ghostly touches and apparitions, grounding the supernatural stories in real historical tragedy.

Government and Indigenous Heritage

The Alaska State Capitol and Juneau-Douglas City Museum provide insight into the city’s political and cultural past. The Capitol is said to be haunted by a former legislator’s ghost, while the museum’s tales include Bigfoot sightings and folklore about Alaska’s icy worms. These stories remind us that Juneau’s history isn’t just about gold rush days but also about the stories people tell to make sense of the unknown.

End of the Night

The tour concludes back at the City Hall, where the mural depicting Raven releasing humans from a clamshell reminds us of Alaska’s Indigenous stories and the idea that the supernatural is woven into everyday life. Finally, the statue of Patsy Ann, the town’s beloved deaf dog, offers one last charming story about a spirit believed to still welcome visitors near the waterfront.

Practical Details: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The guided haunted history tour is a group event with a maximum of 20 travelers, making it intimate enough for questions and interaction. The route is wheelchair-friendly, a rare plus for outdoor walking tours, and the start time is at 7:00 pm, perfect for experiencing Juneau’s cooler evening ambiance.

Since snacks and drinks are not included, you might want to arrive a bit hungry or bring a small snack to enjoy afterward. The tour is designed to appeal to most travelers aged 13 and up, making it family-friendly but still spooky enough for teens and adults alike.

Weather in Juneau can be unpredictable, especially in the evening, so wearing layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes is advisable. The experience is weather-dependent; if it’s too stormy, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds available if that happens.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With about 20 travelers max, it’s a cozy size that allows for a more personal storytelling style. Expect the guide—whose name isn’t mentioned—to share stories with enthusiasm, with a good balance of historical facts and ghostly tales. The stories are delivered in an engaging way that captures the imagination without leaning into over-the-top theatrics.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The $34.99 price includes a comprehensive tour of multiple historic sites, each with its own spooky story. Unlike simply wandering around on your own, this guided experience offers context and local insights that deepen the stories, making each ghostly tale more meaningful. Plus, visiting landmarks like the Alaskan Hotel or the Crystal Saloon, both with genuine haunted reputations, makes the experience tangible and memorable.

You’ll walk away with a richer understanding of Juneau’s history—both the historic and the supernatural. It’s a practical way to learn about the city’s past, its legends, and the cultural significance of local folklore, all while enjoying a few thrills.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost walk is perfect for history buffs, story lovers, and adventurers who aren’t afraid of a little spooky fun. It’s suitable for families with teenagers, as long as everyone is comfortable with light ghost stories. Those interested in local legends and indigenous stories will appreciate the way the tour connects folklore with historical sites. If you enjoy a mix of history, culture, and a touch of the supernatural, this tour is a charming way to spend an evening in Juneau.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This guided ghost walk offers a well-rounded blend of historical sites, local legends, and paranormal tales that make for an engaging, atmospheric experience. The two-hour duration and affordable price make it accessible for most travelers, especially those looking to explore Juneau’s darker stories without a hefty investment.

The tour’s emphasis on authentic stories, local folklore, and accessible routes means you’re getting a taste of Juneau’s unique character—both its history and its haunted reputation. It’s an experience that stays with you, offering a different perspective on this Alaskan city and its legends.

If you’re looking for a fun, slightly spooky way to spend an evening, learn about local culture, and enjoy Juneau’s iconic landmarks, this ghost walk is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is recommended for ages 13 and up, making it appropriate for teenagers and adults who enjoy spooky stories but not overly scary or graphic tales.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, walking through multiple historic and haunted sites around Juneau.

Is the route wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the route is designed to be wheelchair-friendly, allowing more visitors to enjoy the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable shoes since Juneau’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour does not include snacks or drinks.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the guided haunted history tour. Entry to specific sites or museums is generally free, but some stops like Aunt Claudia’s Doll Museum or the Alaska State Capitol are not included in the tour fee.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

To sum it up, the Juneau Ghost Walk combines history, folklore, and a bit of mystery into a fun, affordable package. It’s best suited for those curious about local legends, who enjoy storytelling, and who want a memorable, atmospheric experience during their Alaskan visit. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour offers a glimpse into Juneau’s haunted side that’s both entertaining and enlightening.