Alaska State Capitol - Image 1
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Alaska State Capitol

4.5
·86 reviews·Juneau, United States

Juneau, Alaska's capital, offers stunning glaciers, majestic mountains, and a welcoming state capitol building. Accessible only by air or sea, it's a ...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best weather for exploring

CrowdHigh
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Alaska State Capitol - Image 1

Alaska State Capitol

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best weather for exploring

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Juneau, Alaska's capital, offers stunning glaciers, majestic mountains, and a welcoming state capitol building. Accessible only by air or sea, it's a gateway to Alaska's wild beauty.

4.5
(86 reviews)

"Juneau is a beautiful capitol with gorgeous scenery and delicious Red King Crab."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walkable from Cruise Port

The Alaska State Capitol is a short, easy walk from the cruise ship docks, perfect for a quick visit.

🚌 Mendenhall Glacier Bus

Take a bus to Mendenhall Glacier; it's often the best value and most convenient option.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Alaska State Capitol Building

Alaska State Capitol Building

Juneau

Explore the Art Deco architecture and learn about Alaska's history. Staff are friendly and informative, offering self-guided tours.

Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls

Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls

Juneau

Witness the majestic Mendenhall Glacier and the stunning Nugget Falls. Accessible via bus or trail for an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Goldbelt Tram

Goldbelt Tram

Juneau

Ascend Mount Roberts for panoramic views of Juneau, the Gastineau Channel, and surrounding mountains. A must-do for breathtaking vistas.

Whale Watching Tours

Whale Watching Tours

Juneau waters

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

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Juneau

Juneau's weather can be unpredictable, with rain being common year-round. Consider visiting during the summer months (June-August) for the best chance of milder weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the Alaska State Capitol and surrounding natural beauty. Be aware that this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.

Getting Around Juneau

Juneau is a unique capital city, accessible primarily by air or sea, as it lacks road connections to the rest of Alaska. For cruise ship passengers, the Alaska State Capitol is a short walk from the port. Taxis and local buses are available for exploring further afield, such as to the Mendenhall Glacier. TikTok

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best weather for exploring
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium
When
Off-season shoulder months
Why
Fewer crowds, lower prices
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to Juneau, Capital of Alaska!🇦🇽❄️🦀🏔️ I picked this trip up to try something new and it turned out to be one of my favorite trips ive done so far! Alaska is beyond underrated! A while ago I heard about Tracys King Crab Shack and her world famous deadliest catch crabs. So when I found out we had super long layovers there I decided, imma get some 🦀! I also went whale watching🐳🐋Juneau is one o...
@thebeautifuljordan
146.7K likes • 744.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable from Cruise Port

The Alaska State Capitol is a short, easy walk from the cruise ship docks, perfect for a quick visit. Reddit

🚌 Mendenhall Glacier Bus

Take a bus to Mendenhall Glacier; it's often the best value and most convenient option. TikTokReddit

#greenscreen #Alaska #AlaskaCruise #JuneauAlaska #Juneau #Totem #KootéeyaaDeiyí #Kootéeyaa #TotemTrail #DecolonizeTravel #CulturalTourism
@notoriousraven
91.3K likes • 386.1K views
Hi from the state capitol 👋 Juneau is one of the most beautiful places & traveling goes by so fast when you’re in a window seat with all those VIEWS 😍🏔️ I look forward to the Alaska REALTORS® Legislative Fly-In every year. I’ll be here with a handful of REALTORS® across the state having conversations with our legislators about topics that are pertinent to real estate professionals, homeowners & ...
ryliehtherealtor
23 likes • 578 views

🦀 Tracy's King Crab Shack

Indulge in world-famous Alaskan King Crab legs for a delicious local culinary experience. TikTok

⛰️ Mount Roberts Tramway

Ride the tram for stunning panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding fjords. TikTok

LETS GO ALASKA!!!!!! 🏔️🔥✝️🙏🏽 State Capitol #46 going down today in Juneau!!! #LetUsWorship
seanfeucht
0 likes • 18.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walkable from Cruise Port

The Alaska State Capitol is a short, easy walk from the cruise ship docks, perfect for a quick visit. Reddit

🚌 Mendenhall Glacier Bus

Take a bus to Mendenhall Glacier; it's often the best value and most convenient option. TikTokReddit

🦀 Tracy's King Crab Shack

Indulge in world-famous Alaskan King Crab legs for a delicious local culinary experience. TikTok

⛰️ Mount Roberts Tramway

Ride the tram for stunning panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding fjords. TikTok

☔ Pack for Rain

Juneau is known for its rain; always be prepared with waterproof gear. TikTok

💡 Book Tours Locally

Consider booking excursions at the port rather than through your cruise line for potential savings. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(86 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Juneau's stunning natural beauty, particularly the Mendenhall Glacier and the scenic views from the Goldbelt Tram. The Alaska State Capitol is noted for its welcoming atmosphere and historical insights. Some find cruise ship excursions to be pricey, suggesting local booking as a cost-saving alternative.

"This is our trip on the Nieuw Amsterdam from Vancouver BC all over Alaska/ Juneau/ Skagway... it's just gorgeous with the trains. Juneau, you can do mine tours and it's absolutely gorgeous.... Right now we're in Glacier Bay going into the College fjords
Then to Denali national Park."

Cielo

"Juneau is a beautiful capitol. We had the best Red King Crab legs. We also went to the top of the 1800 ft. Mountain on a tram."

John Bergmann

"I love to visitvisit a state Capitol building. The staff here was very friendly and informative. Government was not in session so there were not a lot of people around. We got to visit both galleries and saw a lot of interesting newspaper clippings."

Tina Rice

What People Like

Breathtaking natural scenery
Friendly Capitol staff
Delicious King Crab

What People Dislike

Expensive cruise excursions
Frequent rain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Juneau is only accessible by air or sea, as it has no road connections. Most visitors arrive via cruise ship or by flying into Juneau International Airport (JNU). TikTok

Yes, the downtown area and the Alaska State Capitol are very walkable from the cruise ship docks. Many shops and restaurants are also within easy walking distance. Reddit

Taxis and a local bus system are available for getting around Juneau. For popular attractions like Mendenhall Glacier, consider booking a bus tour or shuttle. TikTok

If you are not arriving by cruise ship, you can drive to Juneau and find parking near the Capitol building. However, remember that Juneau itself is not connected by road to the rest of North America. TikTok

Yes, the Alaska Marine Highway System offers ferry services to Juneau, connecting it to other Alaskan communities and British Columbia. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to the Alaska State Capitol building is free. You can explore the lobby and public areas without a ticket. Instagram

The Capitol building's hours can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. It's best to check the official Alaska Legislature website for the most current information. Instagram

While official guided tours might be limited, the staff are very friendly and informative, and you can often do a self-guided tour of the public areas and galleries. Reddit

Ticket prices for the Goldbelt Tram vary by season and age. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and booking information. TikTok

It's highly recommended to book whale watching tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can admire the Art Deco architecture, view offices, see historical newspaper clippings, and learn about Alaska's government and history. InstagramReddit

Many visitors take a bus tour or shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier. Hiking trails are also available for those seeking a more active experience. TikTok+1

Juneau is a prime location for whale watching (humpbacks and orcas), and you might also spot sea lions, eagles, and bears in the surrounding wilderness. TikTok

Juneau offers opportunities to learn about Alaska Native culture, including totem poles and cultural centers. TikTok

The Goldbelt Tram offers spectacular panoramic views of Juneau, the Gastineau Channel, surrounding islands, and the vast Alaskan wilderness. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Alaskan King Crab legs are a highly recommended local delicacy, famously served at places like Tracy's King Crab Shack. TikTok+1

Yes, several restaurants and eateries are located within walking distance of the cruise port, offering a variety of cuisines, including fresh seafood. TikTok

Juneau has a growing craft beer scene, with breweries like Forbidden Peak Brewery offering local brews and a relaxed atmosphere. TikTok

Look for casual eateries, food trucks, or consider packing snacks. Some local spots offer more budget-friendly options than high-end seafood restaurants. TikTok

Yes, some visitors have noted delicious Filipino food options available near the pier in Juneau. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic spots include the Alaska State Capitol, Mendenhall Glacier with Nugget Falls, the views from the Goldbelt Tram, and the waterfront. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Capitol building offers many opportunities for photos, both inside the public areas and of its exterior architecture. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, especially for glaciers and mountains. However, even overcast days can create a dramatic, moody atmosphere. TikTok

Absolutely! Whale watching tours offer incredible opportunities to photograph marine life. Remember to use a zoom lens for distant shots. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of the Capitol, but it's always wise to be respectful and avoid disrupting any official proceedings. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Juneau offers engaging experiences for families. The Alaska State Capitol can be fun for kids with its scavenger hunts for trinkets and the chance to see where government happens. Reddit The Goldbelt Tram provides an exciting ride with incredible views, and the Mendenhall Glacier offers a chance to marvel at nature's grandeur. TikTok

Consider booking excursions that are interactive, like whale watching tours where kids can spot marine life. Many tour operators are family-friendly. Packing rain gear is essential, as kids can still enjoy exploring even in light drizzle. TikTok+1

🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers

For cruise ship passengers, Juneau is incredibly accessible. The Alaska State Capitol is a short walk from the docks, making it an easy first stop. Reddit Many popular attractions like the Goldbelt Tram and Mendenhall Glacier are also relatively close and can be reached via shuttle buses or local tours. TikTok+1

Travelers suggest booking excursions independently at the port rather than through the cruise line to potentially save money. TikTok This allows more budget for enjoying local food, like the famous King Crab legs. TikTok Be mindful of your ship's departure time and factor in travel time back to the port. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Independent Travelers

Independent travelers will find Juneau manageable. Renting a car or utilizing taxis and the local bus system provides flexibility. TikTok For those who enjoy hiking, trails like the West Glacier Trail offer stunning views and a more immersive experience with nature. TikTok

Exploring downtown Juneau on foot allows you to discover local shops, art galleries, and historical sites at your own pace. Consider visiting the Red Dog Saloon for a taste of local history and atmosphere. TikTok Booking tours locally can offer more personalized experiences compared to large group excursions. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Alaska State Capitol

The Alaska State Capitol in Juneau is a distinctive building, known for its Art Deco architecture. Unlike many other state capitols, it functions more like an office building, housing legislative chambers and offices for state officials. Visitors often note the friendly and informative staff who are happy to share insights about Alaska's government and history. Instagram+1

Self-guided tours are common, allowing you to explore the public areas, including the galleries and lobbies. You can often see into many of the offices, which provides a unique perspective on the day-to-day workings of the state government. The walls are adorned with historical newspaper clippings and local art, offering a glimpse into Alaska's past. Reddit

Its proximity to the cruise ship port makes it an easily accessible attraction for visitors. Many find it a welcoming and less crowded experience compared to other state capitols, especially when the legislature is not in session. InstagramReddit

The Majesty of Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile-long river of ice, is one of Juneau's most spectacular natural attractions. Visitors can view the glacier from various viewpoints, including the visitor center, which offers educational exhibits about its formation and the surrounding ecosystem. The sheer scale of the glacier is awe-inspiring, and its ever-changing landscape is a testament to nature's power. TikTok+1

Adjacent to the glacier is Nugget Falls, a beautiful waterfall that cascades near the ice. The combination of the glacier and the falls creates a breathtaking scene, making it a prime spot for photography. Several trails lead to different vantage points, ranging from easy paved paths to more challenging hikes for the adventurous. TikTok

It's important to be aware of potential hazards, such as glacial outburst floods from Suicide Basin, which can occur after heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt. Officials issue warnings and evacuation orders when necessary, so staying informed about local conditions is crucial. TikTok+1

Juneau's Culinary Delights

Juneau offers a taste of Alaska's renowned seafood, with Alaskan King Crab being a standout. Restaurants like Tracy's King Crab Shack are famous for serving these massive, succulent crab legs, often caught fresh and prepared simply to highlight their natural flavor. TikTok+1

Beyond crab, visitors can enjoy other local seafood such as salmon and halibut. The city also boasts a burgeoning craft beer scene, with breweries like Forbidden Peak Brewery offering a chance to sample local brews alongside pub fare. TikTok

For those arriving by cruise ship, exploring dining options near the port can be convenient and offer a range of choices, from casual seafood shacks to more upscale dining experiences. Some travelers recommend booking tours locally to save money, which can then be allocated to enjoying the local cuisine. TikTok+1

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