Nine Reasons to Visit Juneau this Summer

Summer in Juneau, Alaska, is not to be missed. There’s a vibrant array of beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and adventure. Here are a few reasons to visit this summer and what you must experience during your stay at our downtown Juneau hotel:

1. Marvel at Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls

Mendenhall Glacier is a stunning sight just 12 miles from downtown. The visitor center is open in the summer, and you can easily hike to Nugget Falls (a 30-40 minute trek) to feel the mist of a powerful waterfall. You can also go on guided hikes, canoe trips on the lake, or even kayak around floating icebergs.

2. Ride the Goldbelt Tram for Panoramic Views

Rise 1,800 ft above sea level in minutes aboard the Goldbelt Tram (formerly Mt. Roberts Tramway). A restaurant, theatre, and trails await in the summer. This is an ideal spot for photographing Juneau and the Gastineau Channel spread below

3. Embark on a Whale-Watching & Wildlife Tour

Summer marks the arrival of humpback and orca whales feeding in Juneau’s waters. Juneau whale watching tours often include naturalist commentary, plus sightings of eagles, seals, and even brown bears on the shoreline. Choose small boats or jet boats for a more personal experience.

4. Explore on Ice & in the Air

June offers many thrilling glacier encounters. We’re talking dogsled rides, ice-trekking, flight-seeing, and helicopter tours into the Juneau Icefield. Try NorthStar Helicopters’ summer dogsled adventure: fly in, mush on ice, and create Alaskan memories.

5. Spot Brown Bears in the Wild

A short floatplane ride brings you to the Admiralty or Chichagof Islands, where salmon-rich streams host brown bears in summer. Guided tours provide safe and responsible wildlife viewing with expert commentary.

6. Pan for Gold & Dine Under Rainforest Canopy

Revisit the gold rush as you sift through Gold Creek’s sands. Many tours combine gold panning with a seafood feast, such as a salmon bake, amidst temperate rainforest scenery.

7. Discover Culture, History, & Local Life

Downtown Juneau is a must-visit destination, featuring historic frontier-era buildings, art galleries, and local spots like The Rookery Cafe and Imperial Saloon. Don’t miss the Alaska State Museum for Tlingit cultural heritage, or the Juneau-Douglas City Museum. Stroll through Overstreet Park to meet the iconic whale sculpture.

8. Hike Trails with Spectacular Scenery

Stretch your legs on trails like Perseverance, East Glacier, or Mount Roberts’ summit path. These Juneau hiking trails offer varied challenges and amazing views, whether you’re seeking easy forest walks or vigorous climbs.

9. Enjoy Festivals, Food, & Music

Summer brings a multitude of Juneau events and a city-wide energy, from food trucks, open-mic nights, and art walks to the Juneau Symphony and Lyric Opera. The city is known for its culture, and these seasonal happenings are no exception.

Stay with Us at Silverbow Inn

Close to downtown Juneau and surrounded by nature, Silverbow Inn is your gateway to these experiences. After a day trekking glaciers or spotting whales, relax just minutes from where adventure begins.

Summer in Juneau is an extraordinary blend of natural wonder, wildlife, cultural richness, and refreshing adventure. Book your stay and step into an unforgettable summer escape!