Top Juneau Half-day Tours

Make your round-trip transfer between Juneau and Mendenhall Glacier hassle-free with this shuttle service. Discover the beauty of the glacier and its trails at a leisurely pace. Plus, during the drive each way, pick up historical fun facts and restaurant recommendations from the driver.

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau’s most impressive natural wonders, stretching over 13 miles (21 kilometers). On this half-day tour, enjoy spectacular views of the glacier from the viewing platforms and walkways, and learn more about the mighty glacier at the Visitor Center. Then, set sail on a thrilling whale-watching cruise along the coast and look out for humpback whales, as well as other wildlife such as bald eagles and blue heron.

This tour includes two hours on the water following the whales, and a quick 15 minute peek at the Mendenhall Glacier. It is just enough time to step off the bus, take a quick picture, and then head back downtown for the rest of your Alaska adventure! This tour is recommended for those who want to see the glacier, but don't want to spend too much time exploring the surrounding recreation area. On this tour, you will take one of the tour buses from downtown Juneau on a 20-minute, narrated tour through Juneau and Mendenhall Valley to Auke Bay. In Auke Bay you will board one of the boats and head out on a 2-hour whale watching experience. Upon returning to the harbor you will be escorted back to the bus for a quick trip inland to Mendenhall Glacier. You will have 15 minutes to get out and take a quick picture, and then get back on the bus for your next adventure in Juneau.

Discover the breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier with the Glacier “Blue Bus” Express, direct and scenic transportation from the cruise ship terminal in downtown Juneau. Ideal for travelers looking to explore on their own, this immersive experience provides the perfect blend of convenience and adventure. You will enjoy captivating commentary and scenery on your way to the Mendenhall Glacier that brings to life the rich history and vibrant culture of the region. Arriving at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, you’ll have two hours to explore this stunning natural wonder. Here you can choose to wander trails, photograph the glacier from the distance, or explore the Visitor’s Center. With various walking trails available, visitors of all fitness levels can enjoy spectacular views of the glacier, Mendenhall Lake, and the untouched wilderness. Entry to the Visitor’s Center is included where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and educational presentations.

Although we are the original whale-watching company in Juneau (operating since 1994), we are still small and family-owned and operated! We want you to feel like part of the family, and we pride ourselves on prioritizing local hires in order to give back to our community and give you the best possible tour experience. We want our guides to love Juneau as much as you do! This tour offers an additional hour at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. This gives you an hour and forty-five minutes to two hours to look at salmon, visit the Visitor's Center, and make the hike to Nugget Falls! Our fleet consists of only mammal-friendly jet boats, and the small size and intimate setting will make you feel right at home with the whales. We pride ourselves on our quick transfers between vehicles! We don't want you to wait any longer than you absolutely have to!

When your ship anchors in Juneau port, get ready for a shore excursion pumped with adventure and incredible views. First, soar by helicopter over Juneau Icefield, and then land on Herbert Glacier to explore the remote landscape by foot. Learn about the surrounding Alaskan wilderness and capture memorable shots during your icefield walk. This tour includes hotel pickup and transportation to and from the helicopter facilities.

Whale watching and visiting the Mendenhall Glacier are two of the most popular activities around Juneau — they're essential experiences for any local tourist that you won't want to miss. Check them both off your list on this half-day combo tour that includes flexible departure times and round-trip transportation from Mt. Roberts Tramway, making it ideal for a shore excursion or quick trip.

One of the only private tours in Juneau, the country's most beautiful capital city! Enjoy the intimacy of just your family and friends on a private sightseeing tour in a luxury hybrid SUV (with captain seats in the second row, and a moonroof that opens to the sky). Take in the gorgeous scenery and wildlife. See the Mendenhall Glacier from a few miles away; as well as mountain vistas, eagles, salmon, seals, and more. The guide is a local family man, who has lived in Juneau since 2016. Listen and learn about the history of the town, while your eyes feast on the scenery. Tour can be tailored to your interests. * The DIPAC Salmon Hatchery is open May 4-Sept 30. A visit is optional. If we skip it, we will spend the time at other sites. * More people in your group means more savings per person * Guaranteed to return you to your ship before its departure

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the Alaskan wilderness aboard your custom-built expedition vessel from Sitka shipyard. Your dedicated crew ensures a seamless experience as you explore, with knowledgeable guides and expert wildlife viewing opportunities: Onboard Comfort: Restrooms, large panoramic windows, and an outside observation deck. Galley Gift Shop: Curated with locally owned products. Refreshments: Beer, wine, and a variety of food and beverage options available for purchase. Wildlife Viewing: Search for whales, sea lions, porpoises, seals, bald eagles, and more! Experience and Expertise: Over 50 years of operation as a family and Alaska-Native owned company.

Mendenhall Glacier, Downtown & Scenic Highlights Book your Juneau tour today. Discover the best of Juneau on this small-group sightseeing tour, perfect for cruise passengers and independent travelers. Visit top attractions including the Mendenhall Glacier, scenic viewpoints, historic downtown, and hidden local gems—all in one seamless experience. Travel in comfort with a friendly local guide, enjoy breathtaking views, and learn about Alaska’s rich history, Gold Rush heritage, and vibrant Tlingit culture. ✨ Flexible Scheduling for Cruise Guests: Arriving by cruise ship? We’ve got you covered. Tour times are flexible based on your ship schedule—just send us a message and we’ll coordinate your perfect start time. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, take in unforgettable views, and experience Alaska like never before. Don’t just visit Juneau—experience it.

Pair a helicopter flight over the glaciers of Juneau Icefield with a dogsled ride, and you have the perfect Alaska experience. After flying over breathtaking scenery, land at a remote glacier camp for a ride of a lifetime: you’re pulled by Alaskan huskies across fields blanketed with snow, surrounded by towering mountains. Listen to the race stories of struggle and victory from Iditarod mushers, and get in the spirit by dressing up in original Iditarod dogsled gear for memorable photos. Please note that the shuttle will pick up one hour before listed flight time.

While most visitors only see the Mendenhall Glacier from crowded viewpoints, this tour takes adventurous travelers on a canoe trip to the base of the glacier for a completely different perspective of the majestic ice. With canoe lessons and a guide, the tour is open to first-time paddlers and the mellow water means you can take along a camera and capture the arctic cliffs, icebergs, and pristine blue ice.

Paddle across Mendenhall Lake, past icebergs and waterfalls, on this guided Alaskan adventure. Explore the Tongass National Forest and hike near Mendenhall Glacier with expert guides. Enjoy breathtaking views and experience wildlife up close. This small-group tour offers a unique and unforgettable wilderness experience.

Although we are the original whale-watching company in Juneau (operating since 1994), we are still small and family-owned and operated! We want you to feel like part of the family, and we pride ourselves on prioritizing local hires in order to give back to our community and give you the best possible tour experience. We want our guides to love Juneau as much as you do! Our fleet consists of only mammal-friendly jet boats, and the small size and intimate setting will make you feel right at home with the whales. We pride ourselves on our quick transfers between vehicles! We don't want you to wait any longer than you absolutely have to!

When your cruise stops at Juneau, see whales in their natural habitat on this whale-watching boat trip, all without the fuss of organizing shore transport. Prebook to secure your place, board a comfortable boat with outdoor decks and heated cabins, and cruise Alaska’s waters to see marine life in the wild. Then, enjoy guaranteed sightings of humpback whales, with a naturalist providing commentary on their behaviors as you cruise.

Alaska’s wild nature should be experienced in the open air, and that’s what you’ll do on this immersive e-bike tour. Great for any fitness level—and most ages—you’ll bike along mostly paved roads, getting views of Mendenhall Glacier, the world’s northernmost rainforest, and so much more. Since you choose your effort level, it’s an always-exhilarating adventure that’s always at your pace.

With this incredible tour, you’ll start with a helicopter flight over the ancient glaciers of the 1,500-square-mile Juneau Icefield. After seeing this marvel of Mother Nature from above, you’ll land at a remote glacier camp for yet another ride on the wild side: zooming across the Alaskan tundra—high, rugged mountains surrounding you—pulled by a rambunctious group of Alaskan huskies. It’s truly an only-in-Alaska experience.

Experience some of the best that Juneau has to offer on this full-day tour that combines whale watching and a salmon bake. Watch for the giant creatures breaching and playing in Auke Bay while learning about the ecosystem from a naturalist guide. Then, in a historic gold rush setting, enjoy freshly grilled Alaska salmon, part of an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Combine a helicopter, an airboat, and a glacier landing on this ultimate Alaskan adventure. Soar over the vast Juneau Icefield and Tongass National Forest to Taku Point. Board an airboat to cruise the five-mile face of the mighty Taku Glacier, getting remarkably close to the ancient ice. Your journey culminates with a helicopter landing on the icefield itself. Step out to capture stunning photos and stand amidst a majestic, remote landscape, taking in the immense scale of the wilderness before your return flight. This is a truly unforgettable activity.

While visiting Alaska’s capital city, Juneau, it can be difficult to decide what activities to fit into your busy sightseeing schedule. Take the stress away from your planning with this Juneau shore excursion that combines a helicopter flight, dog sledding, and a glacier walk into one day, so you can get more from your time in the Last Frontier. Please note: Cruise ship passengers, keep in mind the shuttle will pick up one hour before listed flight time.

Step off your cruise ship and into a river raft on this 3.5-hour shore excursion along Mendenhall Glacier. An experienced guide rows your raft, allowing you to soak up the gorgeous mountain scenery as you float along for six miles around the foot of the glacier. Wind through stretches of Class II and III whitewater rapids and wrap up the outing with a delicious riverside snack. Families, beginners and the more experienced all will enjoy this Mendenhall Glacier float trip. Port transport from Juneau included.

Set out on a whale watching adventure—and leave all the logistics to someone else. After convenient transport to Auke Bay via bus from downtown Juneau, you’ll have an easy transfer to the boat. Spend several hours with a naturalist guide spotting humpback and killer whales as well as harbor seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and black bears. Snacks, beverages, and binoculars are conveniently included.

Combine a gold-panning shore excursion with a special salmon bake that's only available to visitors thanks to a special permit with this combo shore excursion. At Gold Creek and Last Chance Basin, learn how to cull the waters for the precious metal and potentially make your own small fortune exploring the gold fields on your own. Then visit Gold Creek to savor tasty Alaskan salmon at an all-you-can-eat buffet.