Juneau Douglas City Museum
Discover Juneau's rich history, from gold rush pioneers to native cultures, at this engaging and affordable city museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the cruise ship rush.
Juneau Douglas City Museum
Best Time
Beat the cruise ship rush.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Juneau's rich history, from gold rush pioneers to native cultures, at this engaging and affordable city museum.
"A wonderful, very inexpensive museum with lots to do for all ages. "
🎯 Affordable Entry
Adults are $7, seniors $6, and kids under 12 are free! A great value for all ages.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
The museum is conveniently located across from the State Capital Building. Street parking available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pioneer Relics
Discover artifacts from Juneau's gold rush era and early settlement days. A true glimpse into the past.
Native Culture Exhibits
Explore the rich heritage and traditions of Alaska's indigenous peoples.
Local Arts & Crafts
See displays showcasing the artistic talents and historical crafts of the Juneau area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cruise Ship Crowds & Timing
Affordable Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry
Adults are $7, seniors $6, and kids under 12 are free! A great value for all ages.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
The museum is conveniently located across from the State Capital Building. Street parking available.
⏱️ Quick Visit
Perfect for a historical 'snapshot' in about an hour. Great before or after other site visits.
🖼️ Special Exhibits
Check for rotating exhibits like Chilkat regalia or Filipino American History Month.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry
Adults are $7, seniors $6, and kids under 12 are free! A great value for all ages.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
The museum is conveniently located across from the State Capital Building. Street parking available.
⏱️ Quick Visit
Perfect for a historical 'snapshot' in about an hour. Great before or after other site visits.
🖼️ Special Exhibits
Check for rotating exhibits like Chilkat regalia or Filipino American History Month.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Juneau Douglas City Museum for its interesting and informative exhibits on local and Alaskan history, native culture, and pioneer life. The staff are frequently noted as friendly and helpful, and the museum's affordable admission makes it a great value for all ages.
"Very nice and interesting museum that tells and displays the history of Juneau and Alaska! Very friendly, helpful and informative staff at the museum. Highly recommend visiting if you are around the area!"
Hello Ness
"Wonderful, very inexpensive museum with lots to do for all ages. $7 for adults. Kids under 12 free. Seniors $6. Learn about the glacier, the mines, the geology, the arts in the town. Our 2 year old had a blast, but we enjoyed it as well. Bathrooms were clean and had cute local comics on the walls. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable."
Caroline
"Wonderful little place to learn about the history and progress of Juneau. Street parking only. Loved it."
Debra Holley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is a short walk from the cruise ship docks. You can also take a local bus or taxi. Many visitors find it convenient to walk as it's located in the downtown area.
Yes, street parking is available near the museum. However, it can be competitive, especially on days with multiple cruise ship arrivals.
Absolutely! The museum is centrally located in downtown Juneau, making it easily accessible on foot from most hotels and shops.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, many historical buildings in Juneau are working to improve accessibility. It's recommended to call ahead if you have specific concerns.
For exploring beyond the immediate downtown area, local buses are an affordable option, as seen with trips to Mendenhall Glacier. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable: $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, and children under 12 get in for free.
While specific group discounts aren't detailed, the low individual pricing makes it very budget-friendly for families. Children under 12 are free.
Operating hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to check the museum's official website or call ahead for the most current information. Many exhibits are open through the summer.
For general admission, advance booking is typically not required. However, for special events or exhibits, it's advisable to check if tickets are needed.
Most tourist-oriented establishments in Juneau accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or local buses.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that an hour is sufficient to explore the museum and its exhibits, making it a perfect stop for a quick historical overview.
You'll find exhibits on Juneau's history, including the gold rush era, pioneer life, native Alaskan culture, local arts, and geological information about the region.
Yes, the museum is considered family-friendly, with clean bathrooms and engaging displays that can entertain younger visitors.
While not explicitly mentioned as formal guided tours, the staff are known to be very friendly, helpful, and informative, offering insights into the exhibits.
Yes, there is a small gift area within the museum. However, for a wider selection of souvenirs, visitors are advised to shop elsewhere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum is in downtown Juneau, which has numerous restaurants, cafes, and seafood spots. Tracy's King Crab Shack is a popular recommendation.
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside museum exhibits to protect the artifacts. There are usually designated areas or nearby cafes for dining.
Alaskan King Crab is a must-try, as mentioned by many visitors. Fresh seafood is generally excellent in Juneau.
Downtown Juneau offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants. Exploring side streets might reveal more budget-friendly choices.
The museum itself does not appear to have a cafe or restaurant, but it is surrounded by many dining establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask staff if photos are permitted, especially without flash, to protect the exhibits.
The museum's location across from the State Capital Building offers good architectural shots. The surrounding downtown area and waterfront also provide scenic views.
Exhibits featuring historical artifacts, native art, and cultural displays often make for visually interesting photographs.
Sunny days offer the best light for photography in Juneau. Early mornings and late afternoons can provide softer, more dramatic lighting.
Yes, if the cruise ships are docked, you can often get good vantage points for photos of them from the downtown area, including near the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the exhibits focus on history, the engaging displays and the opportunity to learn about different cultures can spark curiosity in young minds. It's a great way to supplement visits to natural attractions like Mendenhall Glacier by providing historical context.
💰 Budget Travelers
Its central location in downtown Juneau means you can easily walk there from the cruise port, saving on transportation costs. Combine your visit with exploring other free or low-cost attractions in the area, like walking to Mendenhall Glacier via local bus routes.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Consider visiting the museum early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds disembarking from ships. While the museum has a small gift shop, remember to do your main souvenir shopping elsewhere for a wider selection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Juneau's Rich History
Beyond the gold rush, the museum also highlights the indigenous heritage of the area, featuring displays on the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples who have called this land home for centuries. Understanding this deep cultural history is crucial for appreciating Juneau's unique identity.
Furthermore, the museum touches upon Juneau's political history, including the fascinating push to move the capital. This provides a comprehensive 'snapshot' of the region's development, making it an excellent starting point for exploring other historical sites in the city.
Experiencing Juneau's Arts and Culture
These rotating exhibits offer a dynamic look at Juneau's evolving cultural landscape. They provide opportunities to engage with contemporary artistic expressions as well as historical crafts, demonstrating the enduring artistic traditions of the area.
Beyond the museum's walls, the 'Free Little Art Gallery' concept, which has a presence in Juneau, also speaks to the city's vibrant arts scene. This community-driven initiative encourages participation and sharing of art, reflecting a broader appreciation for creativity.
Social
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