Five Family Friendly Activities in Juneau

Rain or shine, there are lots of activities in Juneau for the whole family. Here are a few of our favorites.

Hiking: Sometimes children just need to burn off a little energy! What better way than going on a hike in the rainforest or the wetlands? With over 250 miles of trails to choose from, you’re sure to find a trail to fit your family’s range of ages and fitness. Try the Rainforest Trail on North Douglas, the Trail of Time at the Mendenhall Glacier area, or the Mendenhall Wetlands Airport Dike Trail to watch the float planes fly over your head before landing on the float plane pond.

Tide Pooling: Check the local tide schedule and visit the beach at low tide to see what wonders you might find left behind as the tide goes out. Just be mindful of the incoming tide so you don’t get stranded! Given that Juneau is a coastal community, there are many places to explore to view limpets, starfish, anemones, small fish or crab, and other coastal creatures. Read the advice from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game on Tidepool Etiquette so you can be a good example when you are out discovering what lies below the waterline.  

McCauley Salmon Hatchery (DIPAC): Learn about the cycle of life for salmon in Juneau at the McCauley Salmon Hatchery. There is an underwater window to view salmon swimming up the fish ladder that mesmerizes children and adults. Watch for seals looking for an easy meal as they hang out often at the mouth of the ladder. Inside you can get up close to marine life at the aquariums and there is even a touch tank. With tickets an affordable $7 for adults, $5 for children, and free admission to children under 2, it’s not just an education, but a bargain as well.

Parks: For a great break from sightseeing, check out one of Juneau’s many parks. Cope Park at Capital & Calhoun St. offer a playground, picnic area, and restrooms. Bill Overstreet Park showcases a life-size humpback whale statue and restrooms. Capitol Park on Fifth and Seward is a great new renovated area for children to burn off some steam and adults can contemplate the Empty Chair Memorial. Across the bridge on Douglas Island is Sandy Beach and the Treadwell Mine Historic Area. Combine a walk to view old mining relics and read about life during the Gold Rush and then enjoy playing in the sand or on the playground.

Museums: The Juneau-Douglas City Museum has a hands-on mining exhibit and interesting local history. The Alaska State Museum is top notch with interactive displays, large exhibits, and an entire children’s area to explore.