Surrounded by towering mountains, winding waterways, glaciers, and dense rainforest, Juneau offers one of the most unforgettable cruise destinations in Alaska. Known as the “City in the Forest Surrounded by Ocean and Ice,” Alaska’s capital is tucked between the vast Tongass National Forest and the breathtaking Juneau Icefield, creating endless opportunities for adventure.
If you are looking at your cruise itinerary wondering, “How do I plan my day in Juneau?” you are not alone. With so many incredible things to do in Juneau, deciding how to spend your limited time in port can feel overwhelming. Whether you want to experience whale watching, visit the iconic Mendenhall Glacier, or enjoy a private excursion with family and friends, Juneau Tours makes planning your day easy.
The Best Way to Spend One Day in Juneau: Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier
If you only have one day in Juneau and want to experience the city’s top attractions, our most popular recommendation is the Juneau Whale Watch & Mendenhall Glacier Combo Tour.
This five-hour Juneau excursion combines two of the area’s most unforgettable experiences: whale watching in Juneau and a visit to the famous Mendenhall Glacier.
Your adventure begins on the water aboard one of our custom whale-watching boats. Designed for comfort in Alaska’s ever-changing weather, our vessels feature heated indoor cabins, oversized viewing windows, and spacious outdoor decks that provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. As you cruise through the waters surrounding Juneau, you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales, along with other local wildlife such as sea lions, harbor seals, and bald eagles.
After your whale-watching experience, the tour continues to Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska’s only drive-up glacier and one of Juneau’s most iconic natural attractions. Once there, you can explore at your own pace. Walk the scenic Photo Point Trail for sweeping glacier views, hike toward Nugget Falls for incredible photo opportunities, or visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to learn more about the region’s geology, history, and wildlife.
By combining Juneau’s premier whale-watching experience with a visit to the area’s most famous glacier, this tour offers an unforgettable way to make the most of your time in Alaska’s capital city.
From May through September, we proudly offer a 100% whale sighting guarantee. During your Juneau whale watching tour, expert naturalists help guests spot humpback whales while sharing fascinating insights about whale feeding habits and marine ecosystems. Along the way, you may also see bald eagles, harbor seals, sea lions, and other incredible Alaskan wildlife.
Flexible Juneau Shore Excursions to Fit Your Schedule
Not every cruise stop allows for a full-day experience, which is why we offer several flexible Juneau tours to fit different schedules and interests.
If whale watching is at the top of your list, the Juneau Whale Watching Tour provides approximately two full hours on the water and lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours overall, making it an ideal option for shorter port visits.
Prefer to spend more time at the glacier? The Mendenhall Glacier Shuttle Tour is a three-hour roundtrip experience focused entirely on exploring one of Juneau’s most scenic destinations.
For families, small groups, or travelers wanting a more personalized experience, private Juneau tours are also available. Our six-passenger whale watch charter is perfect for intimate outings, while larger private vessels can accommodate bigger groups looking for a customized and unforgettable Alaskan experience away from crowds.
What to Wear for Your Day in Juneau
Juneau weather can change quickly, and locals often joke that the city’s rainfall is simply “liquid sunshine.” Because Juneau receives frequent rain throughout the year, it is always best to come prepared.
We recommend dressing in layers, bringing a waterproof jacket, and wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes that can handle wet conditions. Even on cooler or rainy days, whale watching and glacier tours remain some of the best things to do in Juneau.
Where to Meet Your Juneau Tour
Convenience matters when you only have a few hours in port. All Juneau Tours excursions meet downtown directly in front of the Goldbelt Mt. Roberts Tramway, just a short and easy walk from most Juneau cruise ship docks.
Why Book a Local Juneau Tour?
Many cruise visitors wonder if booking a Juneau shore excursion with a local company is safe. The short answer: absolutely.
At Juneau Tours, our excursions are built around cruise ship schedules, so you can enjoy your day without worrying about getting back to port on time. If your ship is delayed, we adjust tour timing when possible, and our No Port–No Pay Policy means you receive a full refund if your ship does not make it to Juneau.
As an Alaskan-owned, family-operated company and founding member of the Whale SENSE program, we are committed to creating memorable, responsible wildlife experiences while helping guests experience the best of Juneau.
Make the Most of Your Day in Juneau
If you are asking yourself, “What should I do during my day in Juneau?” our local team is here to help make the most of your visit. From unforgettable whale watching in Juneau to scenic glacier experiences and private Alaska adventures, Juneau Tours makes planning your perfect Juneau shore excursion simple. Book a tour today.
