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JNU Layover Ideas Juneau Airport Layover Guide

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Juneau Airport

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventurer, or a culture buff, Juneau Airport offers an array of exciting layover activities. Here are the top five layover ideas that you can enjoy within 12 hours of your stay at JNU.

1. Wildlife Viewing

Juneau boasts some of the most spectacular wildlife viewing in the world. Just minutes away from the airport, you can get up close to black bears, Dall porpoises, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, mountain goats, and Sitka Black Tail Deer through a variety of wildlife tours. Whale watching is another popular activity, giving you a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

2. Glacier Tours

Experience the grandeur of Alaska's glaciers in and around Juneau. Visit the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier located just 13 miles from downtown, or take a day cruise to Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm Fjord. These tours offer a chance to see giant icebergs and flowing rivers of ice - a truly awe-inspiring sight.

3. Outdoor Adventure

With over 100 miles of groomed hiking trails, Juneau is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The temperate rainforest brings you up close to nature, providing a serene and rejuvenating experience. For those seeking more adventure, try sea kayaking in Southeast Alaska's protected waterways or rafting the Mendenhall River.

4. Flightseeing

Experience the flight of a lifetime in a small plane or helicopter. These flights offer spectacular views of Juneau's landscapes from above and even landings at remote lodges. For a truly unique experience, opt for a helicopter tour that offers glacier landings where you can walk on a glacier, go dog sledding on the Juneau Icefield, or hike the glaciers after being outfitted with crampons and ice axes.

5. Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting Juneau's breweries, taking cannery tours, or enrolling in cooking schools. You can also explore the city's museums and historical sites or attend a performance at the nationally acclaimed Perseverance Theatre. For photography enthusiasts, there are photo tours that will guide you to the most picturesque locations in the city.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through JNU Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of JNU's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Juneau airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near JNU to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

For those with a longer layover, ranging from 12 to 48 hours, the area surrounding Juneau Airport offers a wealth of attractions. These activities allow you to explore the beauty and culture of Juneau at a more leisurely pace. Here are some top recommendations for a fulfilling extended layover.

1. Explore Downtown Juneau

Take a short drive to downtown Juneau, where you can explore local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Don't miss the iconic Red Dog Saloon, known for its historic charm and live entertainment. The Juneau-Douglas City Museum and the State Capitol are also worth a visit to learn more about Alaska's history and governance.

2. Visit Admiralty Island

Admiralty Island, also known as "Fortress of the Bears," is a short boat trip away from Juneau. It is home to one of the highest densities of brown bears in North America. The island also offers excellent bird watching opportunities, with bald eagles and other species in abundance.

3. Discover Taku Glacier Lodge

For a truly Alaskan experience, take a floatplane flight to the remote Taku Glacier Lodge. Here you can enjoy a wilderness dining experience, explore the historic lodge, or even take a guided nature walk. The flight to and from the lodge also offers stunning views of the Juneau Icefield.

4. Take a Day Trip to Skagway

Consider a day trip to the historic town of Skagway, known for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush. You can explore the old town, visit the Gold Rush Cemetery, or take a scenic ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.

5. Relax at Auke Bay

Just north of Juneau Airport, Auke Bay offers beautiful views, wildlife viewing, and a variety of water activities. You can go fishing, whale watching, or simply enjoy a relaxing walk along the shoreline. The St. Therese Shrine, a peaceful retreat with lovely gardens and chapels, is also worth a visit.

Updated on: November 22, 2023