Juneau, Alaska Cruise Port Guide

What to Do Now That the Goldbelt Tram Is Closed

If Juneau is on your Alaska cruise itinerary this year, there’s one important update travelers should know before arriving in port: the Goldbelt Tram, one of Juneau’s most popular attractions, is currently closed.

Fortunately, Juneau offers far more than a tram ride. From glacier landings and whale watching to Indigenous cultural experiences and scenic rainforest trails, Alaska’s capital remains one of the most rewarding cruise ports in the state. This guide covers everything cruise passengers need to know to make the most of a day in Juneau.

Goldbelt Tram

The Goldbelt Tramway sits adjacent to the cruise terminal and traditionally carries visitors approximately 1,800 feet up Mount Roberts in about six minutes. At the summit, visitors normally find hiking trails, a restaurant, gift shop, viewing platforms, and educational exhibits.

Closure Update

For years, the Goldbelt Tramway provided cruise passengers with a quick ride to the top of Mount Roberts, offering panoramic views, hiking trails, dining, and cultural exhibits. Following an accident in March 2026, the tram was shut down for repairs. As of this writing, it remains closed indefinitely for inspection and maintenance. Travelers should check the official Goldbelt Tram website before their cruise for the latest updates regarding reopening plans.

Although the tram is not operating, the lower terminal area remains open. Visitors can still enjoy local shops, cultural demonstrations, and coffee at Raven About Coffee near the base station.

How To Get to the Top Now

Experienced hikers may also choose to access the summit via the Mount Roberts Trail. Beginning from Basin Road, the trail climbs steeply through dense rainforest and typically requires around 90 minutes to reach the upper tram complex. The route is considered challenging and is best suited for physically active travelers with proper footwear and adequate time in port. On the plus side, with the tram closed, those adventurous explorers that make the hike will get to enjoy a rare uncrowded experience at the top.

Helicopter Glacier Landing

For travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime Alaska experience, helicopter tours over the Juneau Icefield consistently rank among the most memorable excursions available.

The Juneau Icefield is one of the world’s largest non-polar icefields, covering more than 1,500 square miles. From the air, passengers can view immense glaciers, deep blue crevasses, snow-covered peaks, and remote wilderness inaccessible by road. Many tours include glacier landings, allowing guests to step directly onto ancient ice formations.

Dogsledding

For the ultimate Alaska adventure, helicopter and dogsledding excursions combine a scenic flight with an opportunity to ride behind professional sled dog teams on a glacier. These tours typically land on Herbert Glacier or nearby icefields where mushers operate seasonal camps.

While these excursions represent a significant investment, they remain among the highest-rated shore excursions in Alaska and frequently sell out months in advance.

Book Juneau’s top-rated Helicopter + Dogsledding Excursion

Whale Watching

Juneau is widely regarded as one of the best whale-watching destinations in Alaska.

The nutrient-rich waters surrounding the city attract large numbers of humpback whales during the summer feeding season, making sightings exceptionally common. Many tour operators report very high success rates and some even offer guarantees if whales are not observed. Our top recommendation is to book an independent excursion rather than a large cruise-sponsored vessel. Smaller boats often provide a more intimate experience, improved viewing opportunities, and easier access to outdoor observation decks.

Book a Small Boat Whale Watching Excursion

In addition to humpback whales, wildlife sightings may include:

• Harbor seals
• Steller sea lions
• Dall’s porpoises
• Bald eagles

Be sure to bring waterproof protection for cameras, phones, and valuables, as weather and sea conditions can change quickly.

Mendenhall Glacier

For visitors who want to experience an Alaska glacier without a strenuous wilderness expedition, Mendenhall Glacier is the most accessible option.

Located approximately 13 miles from downtown Juneau, the glacier can be reached in about 25 minutes by shuttle or tour vehicle. Several transportation providers operate directly from the cruise terminal throughout the day. Most visitors spend two to three hours exploring the area, which includes:

• Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
• Glacier viewing platforms
• Photo overlooks
• Educational exhibits
• Nugget Falls Trail

The Nugget Falls Trail is particularly popular. This relatively easy walk takes visitors to the base of a dramatic waterfall with Mendenhall Glacier visible in the background. The route is suitable for most fitness levels and offers some of the best photography opportunities in Southeast Alaska.

Inside the Visitor Center, exhibits document the glacier’s ongoing retreat and the environmental changes occurring throughout the region. The displays provide valuable context for understanding the glacier’s history and future.

Visitors should note that the Visitor Center is open from 9AM to 6PM from May to September. and may close before some cruise ships depart in the evening.

Downtown Juneau

Alaska’s capital city offers far more than excursions.

Downtown Juneau combines historic frontier character with modern restaurants, breweries, galleries, and waterfront views. For travelers who prefer a self-guided day, the city is highly walkable and rewarding to explore.

Many local businesses offer authentic Alaska-made products, including:

• Smoked salmon
• Indigenous artwork
• Handcrafted jewelry
• Locally produced gifts and souvenirs

Supporting locally owned businesses provides a more meaningful alternative to generic cruise-port shopping.

The Sealaska Heritage Institute

One of Juneau’s most important cultural attractions is the Sealaska Heritage Institute. Located in the heart of downtown, the institute showcases Alaska Native history, art, and culture through exhibits, educational programs, and traditional craftsmanship.

Highlights include:

• One of Alaska’s largest collections of Indigenous art
• Traditional carving demonstrations
• Native-made jewelry and artwork
• A full-scale cedar clan house

Outside the institute, visitors can explore the increasingly popular Totem Pole Trail along the waterfront. This collection of hand-carved red cedar totem poles stretches from the cruise ship area toward Overstreet Park. Interpretive signs explain the history and significance of each pole, providing valuable insight into the region’s Indigenous cultures. The trail is free to visit and offers one of the most meaningful cultural experiences available within walking distance of the port.

Restaurants

Juneau’s dining scene features some of Alaska’s best seafood and local specialties.

• Deckhand Dave’s: local favorite known for beer-battered halibut tacos, fresh seafood, and casual outdoor dining.
• Tracy’s King Crab Shack: located just steps from the cruise port, famous for king crab legs, crab bisque, and other Alaska seafood specialties.
• Hangar on the Wharf: overlooking the Gastineau Channel, this popular restaurant serves seafood dishes, chowders, and local craft beer.
• The Dawghouse: a casual food stall serving reindeer sausage.
• Red Dog Saloon: one of Juneau’s most iconic historic establishments, combining frontier-era atmosphere with food, drinks, and live entertainment.

Hiking Trails

Visitors looking to experience Southeast Alaska’s rainforest environment without committing to a strenuous mountain climb have several excellent options.

Gold Creek Flume Trail

This scenic trail follows a historic wooden flume through lush rainforest and offers waterfalls, mountain views, and a peaceful atmosphere. Most visitors spend between 30 and 60 minutes exploring the route.

Perseverance Trail

For those seeking a slightly more challenging outing, Perseverance Trail passes through historic mining areas while providing beautiful views and moderate elevation gain.

Regardless of the trail chosen, hikers should bring waterproof outerwear, comfortable hiking shoes, insect repellent, water and snacks.