The Chapel at The Shrine of Saint Therese
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Shrine of St. Thérèse

4.8
·618 reviews·Juneau, United States

A serene island sanctuary in Juneau, Alaska, dedicated to St. Thérèse, offering spiritual peace and stunning natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
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The Chapel at The Shrine of Saint Therese

Shrine of St. Thérèse

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene island sanctuary in Juneau, Alaska, dedicated to St. Thérèse, offering spiritual peace and stunning natural beauty.

4.8
(618 reviews)

"Wow wow wow...100% make the time to visit regardless of you religious beliefs. The nature you will see is exquisite!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Rent a car for flexibility

Easier to reach from cruise ship, worth the trip for the views and peace.

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and causeways.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Causeway to the Island Shrine

The Causeway to the Island Shrine

Island within the shrine grounds

A scenic walk across a causeway leads to a serene island housing the main shrine, dotted with small shrines depicting the life of Jesus.

Reddit
Stations of the Cross Trail

Stations of the Cross Trail

Shrine grounds

A moving outdoor path with statuary, offering a contemplative journey through the Stations of the Cross.

Reddit
Love Meditation Garden

Love Meditation Garden

Shrine grounds

A peaceful garden designed for quiet reflection and spiritual connection, often described as a place to find inner peace.

Reddit
The Beautiful Church

The Beautiful Church

Main shrine building

A stunning interior offering a place for quiet reflection, prayer, and purchasing saintly pendants.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the "Little Way"

St. Thérèse's "Little Way" emphasizes finding holiness in everyday actions. Visitors often find peace and inspiration in this simple yet profound philosophy, making it a deeply personal experience. TikTok

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

While the shrine is open year-round, consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours to fully appreciate its tranquil atmosphere. Weekends and feast days can attract larger crowds seeking spiritual connection. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Feast days (Oct 1st)
Why
Special celebrations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Saint Therese Miracle Prayer #sainttherese #saintthereseoflisieux #foryou #viral #fyp #fypシ #foryoupage #for #viralreels #viralshorts #foryouシ #viralpage #Panalangin #christ #christian #video #Jesus #jesuschrist #prayer #prayerworks #pray #fypspotted #pray #praying #videoviral #God #adsonreels #adsonreelsvideo #reelsfb #reelsviral #Godisgood #jesussaves #jesuslovesyou #Godi...
@johnprex66
105.1K likes • 1.2M views

🚗 Rent a car for flexibility

Easier to reach from cruise ship, worth the trip for the views and peace. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and causeways. Reddit

st thérèse of lisieux pray for us!!🌹🌹 #catholicism #catholic #catholictiktok #christianity #christiantiktok
@ashlyntherese
34.4K likes • 172.2K views
Ready to adventure down to the National Shrine of St. Thérèse? Built in the 1930s, this land hosts retreat houses and a gorgeous chapel - providing a beautiful, serene location to center yourself. 🌳 🎥: @our.big.backyard #juneauak #juneaualaska #visitjuneau #juneau #traveljuneau #reel #tinybigadventure
silverbowinn
42 likes • 1.3K views

🙏 Bring a journal

Capture your thoughts and reflections in the peaceful gardens. Reddit

🌸 Ask for a rose

Many believe St. Thérèse sends a rose as a sign of answered prayers. TikTok

Shrine of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus #shrineofstthérèse
georger50
1 likes • 9 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Rent a car for flexibility

Easier to reach from cruise ship, worth the trip for the views and peace. Reddit

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and causeways. Reddit

🙏 Bring a journal

Capture your thoughts and reflections in the peaceful gardens. Reddit

🌸 Ask for a rose

Many believe St. Thérèse sends a rose as a sign of answered prayers. TikTok

📸 Capture the scenery

The natural beauty surrounding the shrine is breathtaking. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(618 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Shrine of St. Thérèse for its breathtaking beauty, serene atmosphere, and spiritual significance. Many find the causeway walk to the island shrine and the contemplative gardens to be highlights, offering a peaceful escape and a chance for inner reflection. The natural setting and potential for wildlife sightings add to its appeal, making it a memorable stop for all, regardless of religious background.

"What a beautiful shrine a d surrounding property. There is a gravel lot for parking and a short steep trail down to the bathroom and retreat buildings. The bathrooms were heated and very clean, which was nice this time of year. Not far from that were some of the well maintained planting areas and the gift shop. But the real gem is the causeway to the island where the shrine to St Therese is. The walk is great out to the wooded island, with plenty of sea and land animals being seen to either side. Once you reach the island, there is a trail with a series of small shrines about the life of Jesus, statuary, and peaceful quiet. Inside the beautiful church is a guest book, a place to buy a Saint's pendant, and plenty of pews to sit in quiet reflection. I'm so glad we took the time to come out here as it was a highlight of our visit to Juneau."

Sea Hawk

"Wow wow wow...I have been to Juneau 4 times and this was my first visit to the national shrine of st. Terese. 100% make the time to visit regardless of you religious beliefs. The nature you will see is exquisite! If you are Catholic, the walk with the stations of the cross is incredibly moving and will raise your spirit. The love meditation garden is lovely and I could not imagine not finding some inner peace during your visit. 100% visit!!"

Bridget C

"Very nice, beautiful and breathtaking place.
We have good sunny weather and view was crazy good. If you visit in time when Salman at spawning you have grate chance to come really close and see it. This was grate time and opportunity to be there. If you on cruise jut rent a car and get here it worth it."

Andrey Samochkov

What People Like

Beautiful natural setting
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Moving spiritual experience

What People Dislike

Steep trail to bathrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Shrine is located about 7 miles from downtown Juneau. Many visitors rent a car for easy access, especially if arriving by cruise ship. Reddit Public transportation options may be limited, so checking local bus routes or ride-sharing services is advisable. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Alaskan landscape. Instagram

There is a gravel parking lot with a short, steep trail leading to the retreat buildings and bathrooms. Reddit While the main shrine is on an island accessed by a causeway, the path is generally well-maintained. It's recommended to check with the shrine directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Reddit

Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and ease of access from the cruise port. Reddit Alternatively, consider a taxi or a pre-booked tour that includes transportation to the shrine. Instagram

Yes, there is a gravel parking lot available for visitors. Reddit

Absolutely! The shrine is a place of peace and natural beauty that welcomes everyone, regardless of religious beliefs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Shrine of St. Thérèse is generally free, making it an accessible spiritual and scenic destination for all visitors. Instagram

The shrine is typically open year-round, but specific hours for buildings like the gift shop or retreat houses may vary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information. Instagram

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Shrine of St. Thérèse. It is a place open to all for reflection and appreciation. Instagram

Mass is often celebrated at the shrine, especially on feast days or during special events. Check the shrine's schedule for Mass times and participation opportunities. Instagram

The shrine hosts various events, including celebrations for feast days like St. Thérèse's on October 1st, and sometimes features relics of saints. TikTokInstagram+1 It's advisable to check their calendar for upcoming programs. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can walk the causeway to the island shrine, explore the Stations of the Cross trail, find peace in the Love Meditation Garden, and admire the beautiful church interior. Reddit+1 You might also spot local wildlife like marmots. Reddit

Yes, the shrine is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, serene gardens, and the quiet contemplation offered within the church. Reddit+1 It's a welcome break from the bustle of cruise ship life. Reddit

Many visitors report seeing wildlife, including marmots along the trails and potentially salmon during spawning season. Reddit The surrounding natural environment is rich with local fauna. Reddit

The "Little Way" is St. Thérèse's spiritual path, emphasizing finding holiness in performing small, everyday actions with great love for God. TikTok+2

Yes, there is a gift shop on the premises where you can purchase items, including saint's pendants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The causeway leading to the island shrine offers stunning views, as do the Stations of the Cross and the Love Meditation Garden. Reddit+1 The natural beauty of the surrounding landscape also provides excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Photography rules inside religious buildings can vary. It's generally respectful to refrain from flash photography and to be mindful of others in prayer. Check for any posted signage. Reddit

Nature photography, landscape shots of the causeway and island, and contemplative shots of the shrines and gardens are popular. Reddit+2

Drone usage is often restricted in religious sites and national parks. It's crucial to check local regulations and shrine policies before flying a drone. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Shrine of St. Thérèse offers a peaceful environment that can be enjoyed by families. The causeway walk to the island shrine is an engaging journey for children, and the natural surroundings provide opportunities for them to observe wildlife. Reddit+1 The Stations of the Cross can be a way to introduce older children to religious narratives in a visually stimulating outdoor setting. Reddit While the focus is on quiet reflection, the beauty of the location itself can captivate younger visitors. Consider bringing snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. Instagram

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims

For those on a spiritual journey, the Shrine of St. Thérèse is a must-visit. The "Little Way" philosophy offers a profound approach to daily life, and the shrine provides a dedicated space to contemplate this. TikTok+1 Many come seeking intercession for prayers, hoping for a "rose" as a sign of answered prayers. TikTok+1 The Stations of the Cross and meditation gardens are designed for deep reflection and connection. Reddit Attending Mass or special events, if available, can enhance the pilgrimage experience. Instagram+1

🌿 Nature Lovers & Photographers

The Shrine of St. Thérèse is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The scenic causeway, the island's natural setting, and the surrounding waters offer stunning photographic opportunities. Reddit+1 Keep an eye out for local wildlife like marmots, which are frequently spotted along the trails. Reddit The well-maintained gardens and the interplay of light and shadow throughout the day create beautiful compositions. Reddit+1 The peaceful ambiance also makes it an ideal spot for plein air sketching or simply enjoying the Alaskan wilderness. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Significance of St. Thérèse

St. Thérèse of Lisieux, known as the "Little Flower," is celebrated for her "Little Way" – a path to holiness found in performing ordinary actions with extraordinary love. TikTok+1 Despite dying at a young age, her profound spirituality and writings, particularly her autobiography "Story of a Soul," have inspired millions worldwide. TikTok+1 Her feast day, October 1st, is a significant occasion for many Catholics, often marked by special prayers and novenas. TikTok+2

Many visitors come to the shrine seeking her intercession, believing she sends "roses" as a sign of answered prayers. TikTok+1 This devotion is a central theme for those who visit, seeking comfort, guidance, and miracles. TikTok+1 The shrine itself serves as a physical manifestation of this devotion, offering a space for pilgrims to connect with her legacy and teachings. Instagram+1

Exploring the Shrine's Natural Beauty

The National Shrine of St. Thérèse in Juneau, Alaska, is not only a spiritual haven but also a place of remarkable natural beauty. Instagram+1 The shrine is situated on a wooded island, accessible via a scenic causeway that offers picturesque views of the surrounding waters and landscape. Reddit Visitors often report seeing local wildlife, including marmots along the trails, adding to the serene experience. Reddit

The grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring well-kept planting areas and the contemplative Love Meditation Garden. Reddit+1 The walk to the shrine itself is described as a "great walk" with opportunities to observe sea and land animals. Reddit This blend of natural splendor and spiritual tranquility makes the shrine a unique destination, offering a peaceful retreat from the everyday. Reddit

Visiting the Shrine: A Traveler's Perspective

Travelers consistently praise the Shrine of St. Thérèse for its beauty, peace, and the spiritual uplift it provides, regardless of religious background. Reddit+1 Many find it a welcome respite from the busy nature of cruise ship excursions, offering a chance for quiet reflection and connection. Reddit The well-maintained grounds, including the Stations of the Cross and meditation gardens, are frequently highlighted as moving and spiritually enriching experiences. Reddit

Even those new to St. Thérèse's story are moved by the atmosphere and the natural surroundings. Reddit The causeway walk to the island shrine is a particular favorite, offering both scenic views and a sense of journey. Reddit The shrine is described as a "breathtaking place" that is "absolutely fantastic to visit." Reddit+1 The opportunity to see salmon spawning during certain times of the year is also noted as a unique bonus. Reddit

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