Juneau, Alaska, is a place that naturally lends itself to memorable tours. With its dramatic fjords, towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and rich Native culture, Juneau offers something for all. Whether you’re eager to spot whales, explore icy wilderness, or learn about the region’s Indigenous peoples, the variety of tours here is impressive. We especially enjoy the Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks for its small-group intimacy and the chance to see humpbacks and orcas up close. The Mendenhall Glacier hikes offer a rugged wilderness experience, perfect for nature lovers. And for culture seekers, the Native Tour with Tram Ride and Meal provides insight into the region’s rich heritage. Let’s explore each of these top tours in detail so you can find the perfect fit for your trip.
Quick Overview
Juneau’s best tours showcase its stunning natural scenery and vibrant culture. You’ll find whale watching options like the Juneau: Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier Day Trip, which combines glacier exploration with wildlife viewing. For adventure in the outdoors, options include hiking, kayaking, and ziplining. If you prefer a cultural experience, the Alaska Native Tour with Tram Ride offers a deep dive into Native traditions. For family-friendly fun, consider the Rainforest Photo Safari on a Segway. Each tour offers unique insights and experiences, ensuring there’s something for every kind of traveler.
1. From Juneau: Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks
At number 1, this whale watching cruise scores a 4.7/5 based on 423 reviews, making it one of the most popular options for wildlife lovers. The tour begins with a guided bus ride through Juneau that offers a glimpse of the city’s sights, followed by a two-hour cruise exploring the local waters. The boats are small, enclosed, and climate-controlled, giving you comfort while watching for humpbacks, killer whales, sea lions, porpoises, and bald eagles.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of scenic beauty and wildlife encounters. The panoramic views of fjords, mountains, and glaciers are breathtaking. Many travelers appreciate the personalized experience in a small boat. The included snacks and drinks keep you energized as you cruise. At $123, this offers excellent value, especially given the reviews praising the professionalism of the crew and the likelihood of seeing whales. Best suited for those wanting a short, relaxed wildlife experience with a high chance of sightings.
Bottom Line: A dependable, comfortable, and well-reviewed option that captures the essence of Juneau’s waters.
2. Juneau: Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier Day Trip
Ranked at 4.7/5 with 113 reviews, this full-day adventure combines two classic Juneau experiences. It starts with a scenic bus ride to the Mendenhall Glacier, where you can explore independently, then continues with a whale watching cruise to spot humpbacks along the rugged coast.
This tour offers a great mix of glacier exploration and wildlife viewing. The cruise includes complimentary snacks and bottled water, making the experience comfortable. Your naturalist guide explains the local wildlife and glacier features, adding educational value. The photos you take of the glacier and coast are stunning. Priced at $230 for 4.5 hours, it’s a good value if you want a comprehensive day of outdoor adventure. It suits travelers who love both nature and wildlife and appreciate some flexibility to explore on their own.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a blend of glacier scenery and whale watching in a single day.
3. Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Waterfall & Whale Watching Tour
This 4.5/5 rated tour, costing $159 for five hours, stands out for combining the Mendenhall Glacier hike with whale watching. It starts with a guided hike to Nugget Falls, one of the most scenic spots in the area, then transitions to a boat cruise to see whales.
Guests rave about the luxury of the hike and the opportunity to capture images of the glacier and waterfall. The boat cruise allows you to see humpbacks in their natural environment. The tour includes hot chocolate, coffee, and a snack, making it cozy despite the outdoor adventure. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to experience both land and sea with a focus on stunning scenery. Some may find the length and activity level demanding, but most appreciate the diverse experiences.
Bottom Line: An ideal option for adventurous travelers wanting a full-day, multi-activity outing.
4. Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 93 reviews, this 4-hour tour at $151 includes a glacier visit, wildlife viewing, and an educational component. It offers views of the glacial ice and opportunities to spot salmon and black bears at the Steep Creek boardwalk.
The tour divides its time between the visitor center and a boat cruise where you can peer through binoculars to see whales. The guide explains the habits of whales and the glacier’s natural history. It’s a compact option for those who want a balanced taste of wildlife, scenery, and education. The naturalist guide’s insights are a highlight, making this a good value for a half-day outing. The main drawback might be the shorter duration for travelers wanting more time on the water.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a concise, informative experience combining glacier views and whale sightings.
5. Juneau: Alpine Wilderness Trail Ride
This 5/5-rated tour with only five reviews is a unique way to experience Alaska’s mountain meadows on a Segway. The 3-hour ride takes you through Serene alpine terrain, with views of snow-capped peaks and the Fish Creek waters.
The tour includes a short walk along historic Treadwell Ditch Trail and a chance to share a local snack afterward. The small group size and focus on scenic riding make it appealing for those who want a more relaxed, yet active, adventure. The use of Tundra tires on the Segway allows for easy navigation through uneven terrain. This tour is suited for adventure seekers with some balance and those interested in photos and scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a gentle outdoor adventure with stunning mountain views.
6. Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Guided Trail Hike
This 5/5-rated tour, costing $233 and lasting six hours, is tailored for serious hikers. It takes you through the Tongass National Forest to panoramic views of the Mendenhall Glacier.
Your guide shares detailed information about the ice age wilderness and the largest temperate rainforest on earth. The hike is challenging but rewarding, with stunning scenery along the way. Snacks and water are provided to keep your energy up. It’s best suited for fit travelers who want an immersive, educational experience in the wilderness. The extended duration and physical activity make it less suitable for casual visitors, but those who do it rave about the spectacular views.
Bottom Line: A top pick for avid hikers eager to explore the Tongass National Forest and glaciers firsthand.
7. Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Hike
Rated 4.7/5 with seven reviews, this tour at $377 offers an up-close glacier experience by paddling across a glacial lake. You get to explore the glacier’s edge and see Nugget Falls from the water.
The guided paddle provides a unique perspective of the glacier and surrounding mountains. The tour includes snacks and water, ensuring you stay energized. The highlight is paddling to the glacier itself, making this ideal for travelers seeking an adventure with a sense of discovery. The tour’s downside is its cost and physical demand, but the experience of being on the water near a glacier is unforgettable.
Bottom Line: A great choice for active travelers looking for an up-close glacier encounter.
8. Juneau: 3.5-Hour Small Group Whale Watching Tour
Rated 5/5 from two reviews, this intimate 3.5-hour tour costs $189 and carries just 20 passengers. It offers a personalized whale-watching experience on a catamaran.
The guide provides narration about local wildlife and the ecosystem as you cruise the waters. The small group size means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see whales in their natural habitat without the crowds. Many travelers mention the excellent chance of whale sightings and the friendly, knowledgeable crew. This tour is perfect for those wanting a more exclusive, in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: An outstanding option if you prefer a more intimate, less crowded whale watching adventure.
9. Juneau: Alpine Zipline Adventure
Rated 5/5 with just one review, this 3.5-hour zipline adventure is the ultimate adrenaline rush in the Alaskan rainforest. The practice zips help ease nerves before zipping through the treetops.
The tour includes photos and an axe-throwing session at the end for a true thrill. The rainforest canopy offers spectacular views of the lush landscape. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers looking for high-energy fun. The tour’s high ratings reflect its excitement and professionalism.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adrenaline junkies eager to fly through the forest and try axe throwing.
$245 per person
10. Juneau: Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure
Rated 5/5 from one review, this 6-hour guided kayak trip explores Channel Islands’ waters, where whales, orcas, and sea lions feed.
Launching from Juneau, you’ll land on remote islands, have snacks, and paddle in prime whale habitat. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, with plenty of wildlife encounters. The highlight is paddling in the midst of whales and orcas — a truly remarkable experience. The long duration and focus on wildlife make it perfect for adventure lovers.
Bottom Line: A must-do for those seeking an active, wildlife-rich kayak trip with fantastic scenery.
$501 per person
11. Juneau 3 Hour Scenic Road Trip Excursion
Rated 4.4/5 from nine reviews, this private 3-hour tour offers a personalized way to see Juneau’s highlights. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting a customized, flexible experience.
Your guide takes you on a tailored route to see the best of Juneau, with no split groups. It’s perfect if you want to control your pace and focus on what interests you most. The tour’s value is in its customization and personal attention.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a private, flexible tour of Juneau with a local touch.
12. Juneau: Tram, Trails and Ale Tour
Rated 4.7/5 with three reviews, this 2-hour tour combines a ride on the Goldbelt Tram with hiking and a craft beer or wine at the mountain top.
You’ll learn about the mountain’s flora and fauna and enjoy panoramic views from the Geology and History Observation Decks. The local snack is an added treat, and the alpine setting makes it a relaxing yet active outing. It suits those interested in nature, local brews, and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, scenic, and tasty mountain experience.
13. Juneau: Rainforest Photo Safari on a Segway
Rated 4.2/5 from 11 reviews, this 3-hour tour takes you off the beaten path to capture stunning photos of Juneau’s coastal sights.
Riding Segways through ancient old-growth forests and along beaches, you’ll experience panoramic views of mountains and glaciers. The tour emphasizes photography and nature exploration. It’s ideal for those who want a fun, active way to see the rainforest and improve their photo skills.
Bottom Line: Great for photo enthusiasts and those wanting a unique rainforest experience.
14. Juneau: Mount Roberts Tram Ride with App and Map
Rated 3.5/5 with four reviews, this 1-hour tram ride offers breathtaking views of Juneau and the surrounding area. The app tour includes 47 stories about local history and culture, making it a self-guided, informative experience.
You can explore trails, totem poles, and the cultural exhibits at the summit. There’s an option to dine at Timberline Bar & Grill with stunning scenery. This tour is well-suited for casual visitors who want a quick, scenic overview with educational content.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking easy access to panoramic views and cultural storytelling.
$100 per person
15. Juneau: 3-hour Jet Ski Glacier View & Whale Watch
Rated without reviews, this $525 tour offers a powerful two-in-one experience: jet skiing through glacier-studded waters while spotting orcas, humpbacks, and eagles.
Your guided ride in dry suits and life vests is a sensory overload in the best way. The tour aims to deliver Alaska at its best with intense scenery and wildlife encounters. It’s suited for adventure seekers comfortable on watercraft.
Bottom Line: The ultimate adrenaline-packed wildlife expedition on jet skis—if you’re looking for an unforgettable day.
$525 per person
16. Juneau: Alaska Native Tour with Tram Ride and Meal
Rated without reviews, this 2-hour tour explores Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures through guided exhibits and storytelling. Riding the Goldbelt Tram offers sweeping views, followed by a traditional meal at the Timberline Grill.
You’ll learn about native art, legends, and civil rights hero Elizabeth Peratrovich. This experience is best for culture-focused travelers interested in Indigenous history and traditions. The included meal makes it a good value at $145, adding a satisfying end to your culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a meaningful cultural experience combined with scenic views.
$145 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting your perfect Juneau tour, consider your interests, fitness level, budget, and available time. For a relaxed wildlife encounter, the Whale Watching Cruise offers comfort and high sighting chances. If you’re more active, the Trail Hike or Canoe Paddle provide immersive wilderness experiences. Culture lovers should consider the Alaska Native Tour for an authentic indigenous perspective. For thrill-seekers, the Zipline and Jet Ski tours are unbeatable.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak months like June, to secure your preferred time. Remember to think about the duration of each experience—some are half-day outings, while others offer full-day adventures. Always check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as Alaskan weather can change quickly.
Final Thoughts
Juneau’s natural beauty and cultural richness mean there’s no shortage of fantastic tour options. For relaxed, family-friendly outings, the Whale Watching Cruise and Tram Ride with App are excellent choices. If you’re after a more vigorous adventure, opt for a Hiking Tour or Kayak trip. And for those interested in native culture, the Alaska Native Tour offers insight that enriches your understanding of this remarkable region.
Whichever experience you choose, Juneau’s stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and welcoming locals promise an unforgettable trip. Book your tour early, prepare for changing weather, and get ready for a genuine Alaskan adventure.