Plan Your Juneau Coolcation

Looking for a cool summer vacation? Juneau, Alaska is the perfect escape from the sweltering temperatures found across the Lower 48. Surrounded by glaciers, ocean breezes, and rainforest trails, Juneau is where you can truly chill out—literally and figuratively.

Why Juneau is the Best Place to Beat the Heat

1. Mild Summer Weather

With average summer highs in the 60s, Juneau offers a refreshing alternative to scorching temperatures elsewhere in the U.S.

2. Misty Tongass National Forest

Juneau sits inside the Tongass, the largest temperate rainforest in the world. Misty clouds wrap through old-growth trees, keeping everything cool, green, and peaceful.

3. Glacier Tours by Air, Land and Sea

From scenic flightseeing tours over massive icefields to up-close glacier viewing in Tracy Arm Fjord or Glacier Bay National Park, the chill factor here is the real deal. Check out the Mendenhall Glacier and walk out to Nugget Falls.

4. Chilly Natural Wonders

Feel nature’s air conditioner blow from deep within the mountain at the entrance to Ebner Adit, a relic of Juneau’s gold rush history.

5. Incredible Whale Watching and Wildlife

Watch humpback whales breach, seals lounge on icebergs, and eagles soar—all against a backdrop of glacial waters and dramatic mountain views.

6. Authentic Alaska Native Culture

Discover the rich traditions and contemporary expressions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples through formline art, storytelling, and cultural sites. Out at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center you will have access to cultural ambassadors that can share their connection to the land for their people that stretches back over 10,000 years. The Goldbelt Tram's 1,800-foot climb up Mt. Roberts will take you to the Mountain House where you can enjoy a hike, food, shopping, or an award-winning film on Alaska Native Culture. Don't miss the Sealaska Heritage Institute's Heritage Square downtown or the Kootéeyaa Deiyí.

7. Fresh Alaska Seafood

Feast on wild-caught salmon, halibut, rockfish, and king crab at one of Juneau’s many excellent restaurants and seafood shacks. If you want to stretch your legs, try the local food tour and taste all the goodness and bounty that Alaska has to offer.

8. Outdoor Adventures for Everyone

• 250+ miles of hiking trails for all ability levels
• Kayaking, packrafting, jet skiing, and more watersports
• Southeast Alaska Birding Trail for avid birdwatchers
• Bike tours, walking tours, and 

9. Local Shopping & Downtown Charm

Explore local art galleries, boutiques, and shops filled with handcrafted goods and unique souvenirs.

Plan Your Coolcation!

Juneau is where you can truly chill out. Start planning your trip today with our free Juneau Official Travel Planner or call our office where one of our Visitor Information Services staff will happily help you customize an itinerary to fit your needs, then you are off and booking! We look forward to welcoming you to Juneau!