Juneau Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Juneau
Alaska’s capital city is one of the most scenic places in the state, and among the most visited. Long before government buildings and cruise ships arrived, the land was home to the Tlingit people. They built permanent villages along the coast and rivers, thriving through fishing, trading, and a way of life deeply rooted in the region’s natural rhythms.
The modern chapter of Juneau’s story began in 1880, when gold prospectors Richard Harris and Joe Juneau, led by a Tlingit guide named Kowee, struck gold in the surrounding hills. What started as a small mining camp quickly grew into a booming town. The gold rush transformed the area, with major operations like the Treadwell and Alaska-Juneau mines ranking among the largest hard-rock gold mining ventures in the world at the time.
By 1906, Juneau had grown enough to replace Sitka as the capital of Alaska. Its rising political and economic influence made it the natural choice, even though it remained cut off from the rest of the state by road. To this day, the only way in or out is by air or sea—a detail that has shaped Juneau’s independent, resilient personality.
As the gold boom faded, Juneau found its footing in new ways. Today, it serves as the seat of Alaska’s legislature, a thriving fishing port, and a launch point for travelers exploring the Inside Passage. It’s also the gateway to natural wonders like Mendenhall Glacier and the vast Tongass National Forest.
You can still feel the city’s frontier spirit downtown, where well-preserved 19th-century buildings line the narrow streets. The Alaska State Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion speak to its political life, while South Franklin Street now welcomes visitors with cafés, galleries, museums, and shops. Once the rowdy heart of the gold rush, the street still wears its past proudly, with wooden boardwalks and false-front facades.
And just by the harbor, you’ll meet one of Juneau’s most charming figures: a bronze statue of Patsy Ann, the city’s official greeter from the 1930s. Born deaf, the bull terrier had an uncanny ability to sense arriving ships and became a local legend. Today, she continues to win hearts, one photo and nose rub at a time.
All of these sites, and many more, are within easy walking distance. To fully experience the history, charm, and character of Juneau, follow our self-guided walking tour that leads you through the city’s landmarks, stories, and magnificent surroundings.
The modern chapter of Juneau’s story began in 1880, when gold prospectors Richard Harris and Joe Juneau, led by a Tlingit guide named Kowee, struck gold in the surrounding hills. What started as a small mining camp quickly grew into a booming town. The gold rush transformed the area, with major operations like the Treadwell and Alaska-Juneau mines ranking among the largest hard-rock gold mining ventures in the world at the time.
By 1906, Juneau had grown enough to replace Sitka as the capital of Alaska. Its rising political and economic influence made it the natural choice, even though it remained cut off from the rest of the state by road. To this day, the only way in or out is by air or sea—a detail that has shaped Juneau’s independent, resilient personality.
As the gold boom faded, Juneau found its footing in new ways. Today, it serves as the seat of Alaska’s legislature, a thriving fishing port, and a launch point for travelers exploring the Inside Passage. It’s also the gateway to natural wonders like Mendenhall Glacier and the vast Tongass National Forest.
You can still feel the city’s frontier spirit downtown, where well-preserved 19th-century buildings line the narrow streets. The Alaska State Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion speak to its political life, while South Franklin Street now welcomes visitors with cafés, galleries, museums, and shops. Once the rowdy heart of the gold rush, the street still wears its past proudly, with wooden boardwalks and false-front facades.
And just by the harbor, you’ll meet one of Juneau’s most charming figures: a bronze statue of Patsy Ann, the city’s official greeter from the 1930s. Born deaf, the bull terrier had an uncanny ability to sense arriving ships and became a local legend. Today, she continues to win hearts, one photo and nose rub at a time.
All of these sites, and many more, are within easy walking distance. To fully experience the history, charm, and character of Juneau, follow our self-guided walking tour that leads you through the city’s landmarks, stories, and magnificent surroundings.
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Juneau Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Juneau Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Juneau (See other walking tours in Juneau)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 12
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Juneau (See other walking tours in Juneau)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 12
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Juneau Cruise Port
- Alaskan Brewing Co. Depot
- South Franklin Street
- Red Dog Saloon Juneau
- Amalga Distillery
- Holy Trinity Church
- Co-Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church
- Alaska State Capitol
- Juneau-Douglas City Museum
- Sealaska Heritage and Walter Soboleff Building
- Statue of Patsy Ann
1) Juneau Cruise Port
The Juneau Cruise Port is one of Alaska’s busiest and most popular ports of call, welcoming thousands of cruise passengers each year. Tucked into the scenic coastline of southeast Alaska, Juneau is unique in that it is only accessible by boat or plane—adding to its remote charm. As the state capital, it offers travelers a blend of culture, history, and outdoor adventure, making it a must-stop destination for most Alaska cruise itineraries.
Cruise ships dock conveniently close to Juneau’s historic downtown, where visitors can immediately step off the ship and into a lively area filled with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and art galleries. The port consists of several docking facilities—Marine Park, South Franklin Dock, and the Ferry Terminal—that can accommodate up to five large vessels daily, due to new limitations aimed at preserving the town’s atmosphere. From here, guests can easily access top attractions like the Mount Roberts Tramway, whale-watching tours, and the iconic Mendenhall Glacier.
Whether you prefer to browse downtown shops for Alaskan crafts or venture into the surrounding wilderness, Juneau Cruise Port is the perfect jumping-off point. Its central location allows for both easy urban exploration and seamless access to excursions that showcase Alaska’s rugged beauty—from helicopter glacier landings to kayaking with sea lions.
Cruise ships dock conveniently close to Juneau’s historic downtown, where visitors can immediately step off the ship and into a lively area filled with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and art galleries. The port consists of several docking facilities—Marine Park, South Franklin Dock, and the Ferry Terminal—that can accommodate up to five large vessels daily, due to new limitations aimed at preserving the town’s atmosphere. From here, guests can easily access top attractions like the Mount Roberts Tramway, whale-watching tours, and the iconic Mendenhall Glacier.
Whether you prefer to browse downtown shops for Alaskan crafts or venture into the surrounding wilderness, Juneau Cruise Port is the perfect jumping-off point. Its central location allows for both easy urban exploration and seamless access to excursions that showcase Alaska’s rugged beauty—from helicopter glacier landings to kayaking with sea lions.
2) Alaskan Brewing Co. Depot
The Alaskan Brewing Co. Depot in downtown Juneau offers a rich and refreshing taste of Alaska’s brewing heritage. Founded in 1986 by Marcy and Geoff Larson, it was the first brewery to open in Juneau since Prohibition and the 67th independent brewery in the United States. Located on Franklin Street near the waterfront, the Depot is not only a great place to explore a variety of locally crafted beers, but also a hub for exclusive merchandise and unforgettable tasting experiences.
Visitors over 21 can enjoy award-winning beers, seltzers, canned cocktails, and handcrafted non-alcoholic sodas. Along with well-known flagship brews, the Depot also serves limited-release creations like the Rough Drafts and Barrel-Aged Series—beers that aren’t available anywhere else. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just exploring the local flavors, the Depot is an ideal stop to sip, sample, and relax.
The Depot is also home to the official Alaskan Brewing Co. gear shop, featuring everything from cozy hoodies to barware and decor. Worried about packing your souvenirs? No problem—they offer shipping options so you can send your beer gear home with ease. During the summer, guests can hop on a free round-trip shuttle from the Depot to the main brewery and Tasting Room just 15 minutes away, for a full behind-the-scenes experience. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the spirit and craftsmanship of Alaska’s legendary brewing scene.
Visitors over 21 can enjoy award-winning beers, seltzers, canned cocktails, and handcrafted non-alcoholic sodas. Along with well-known flagship brews, the Depot also serves limited-release creations like the Rough Drafts and Barrel-Aged Series—beers that aren’t available anywhere else. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just exploring the local flavors, the Depot is an ideal stop to sip, sample, and relax.
The Depot is also home to the official Alaskan Brewing Co. gear shop, featuring everything from cozy hoodies to barware and decor. Worried about packing your souvenirs? No problem—they offer shipping options so you can send your beer gear home with ease. During the summer, guests can hop on a free round-trip shuttle from the Depot to the main brewery and Tasting Room just 15 minutes away, for a full behind-the-scenes experience. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the spirit and craftsmanship of Alaska’s legendary brewing scene.
3) South Franklin Street (must see)
South Franklin Street is a lively and colorful stretch brimming with history, local culture, and artistic flair. At its heart is Elizabeth Peratrovich Plaza, a moving tribute to the Tlingit civil rights icon whose advocacy led to the first anti-discrimination law in the U.S. The plaza features a towering mural by Tlingit artist Crystal Worl, surrounded by interpretive plaques and storytelling elements that honor Peratrovich’s legacy and invite visitors to reflect on Alaska’s continuing journey toward equality and justice.
The street also showcases Juneau’s deep-rooted connection to Indigenous stories and the arts. City Hall is home to “Raven Discovering Mankind in a Clamshell,” a massive mural by Bill Ray illustrating the Haida creation story. The iconic Red Dog Saloon at 278 South Franklin welcomes visitors with old-school Western charm and quirky memorabilia, including Wyatt Earp’s unclaimed pistol. The nearby Filipino Hall and the restored Senate Building offer further glimpses into the area’s rich past, now housing boutique shops and galleries.
The South Franklin Street is lined with a wide variety of shops and galleries where you can find everything from hand-carved totem poles and Tlingit silver jewelry to quirky souvenirs like plush iceworms and wild Alaska T-shirts. For authentic items, look for the Silver Hand symbol, which designates work made by Alaska Native artists, and the Made in Alaska polar bear logo for locally produced goods.
The street also showcases Juneau’s deep-rooted connection to Indigenous stories and the arts. City Hall is home to “Raven Discovering Mankind in a Clamshell,” a massive mural by Bill Ray illustrating the Haida creation story. The iconic Red Dog Saloon at 278 South Franklin welcomes visitors with old-school Western charm and quirky memorabilia, including Wyatt Earp’s unclaimed pistol. The nearby Filipino Hall and the restored Senate Building offer further glimpses into the area’s rich past, now housing boutique shops and galleries.
The South Franklin Street is lined with a wide variety of shops and galleries where you can find everything from hand-carved totem poles and Tlingit silver jewelry to quirky souvenirs like plush iceworms and wild Alaska T-shirts. For authentic items, look for the Silver Hand symbol, which designates work made by Alaska Native artists, and the Made in Alaska polar bear logo for locally produced goods.
4) Red Dog Saloon Juneau
The Red Dog Saloon is a legendary watering hole in downtown Juneau. Originally opened during the town's raucous mining era, the saloon has been operating for decades and is recognized by the Alaska Legislature as the oldest man-made tourist attraction in the city. It began as a humble sandwich shop during Prohibition and was officially licensed as Timm’s Tavern in 1933 after the repeal. With its swinging saloon doors and sawdust-covered floors, the Red Dog is a throwback to frontier days and continues to charm visitors with its spirited atmosphere and rich history.
Inside, the Red Dog Saloon is a museum of Alaskan folklore, filled with eccentric memorabilia and relics of the Gold Rush era. Guests will find everything from mounted wildlife trophies to a walrus oosik and paper currency signed by miners from around the world. Perhaps its most famous item is a pistol said to have been left behind by lawman Wyatt Earp on his way to Nome—though its authenticity remains part of the saloon's colorful legend. For decades, entertainment was provided by local characters like “Ragtime Hattie,” who famously played the piano in white gloves and a silver dollar halter top.
During Alaska's territorial days, the saloon promoted itself with a bit of cheeky marketing—owners would greet arriving tour boats with a mule sporting a sign that read, “Follow my ass to the Red Dog Saloon.” Even national television took note: the Red Dog hosted an episode of The Ed Sullivan Show shortly after Alaska achieved statehood.
Inside, the Red Dog Saloon is a museum of Alaskan folklore, filled with eccentric memorabilia and relics of the Gold Rush era. Guests will find everything from mounted wildlife trophies to a walrus oosik and paper currency signed by miners from around the world. Perhaps its most famous item is a pistol said to have been left behind by lawman Wyatt Earp on his way to Nome—though its authenticity remains part of the saloon's colorful legend. For decades, entertainment was provided by local characters like “Ragtime Hattie,” who famously played the piano in white gloves and a silver dollar halter top.
During Alaska's territorial days, the saloon promoted itself with a bit of cheeky marketing—owners would greet arriving tour boats with a mule sporting a sign that read, “Follow my ass to the Red Dog Saloon.” Even national television took note: the Red Dog hosted an episode of The Ed Sullivan Show shortly after Alaska achieved statehood.
5) Amalga Distillery
Amalga Distillery is Juneau’s first and only craft distillery, proudly located in the heart of downtown. This locally owned gem specializes in small-batch spirits, including their popular Juneauper Gin and a limited-production American Single Malt Whiskey. Whether you're a seasoned spirits enthusiast or just looking for a cozy place to unwind, Amalga invites you to explore their handcrafted offerings with a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of Alaskan pride.
Step into the tasting room and you'll find a rotating menu of draft cocktails that highlight local ingredients and showcase the distillery’s inventive spirit. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed, window-side seat while sipping on gin-based creations or seasonal cocktail specials. Amalga also offers canned cocktails to-go, making it easy to take a piece of the Juneau experience home with you. The staff is known for their friendliness and passion, ensuring that every visit feels personal and engaging.
Beyond the drinks, Amalga Distillery also features a curated selection of provisions and gift items—many of which are vegan-friendly. The vibe is casual yet refined, and the setting is perfect for sampling Alaska in a glass while soaking in the charm of downtown Juneau.
Step into the tasting room and you'll find a rotating menu of draft cocktails that highlight local ingredients and showcase the distillery’s inventive spirit. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed, window-side seat while sipping on gin-based creations or seasonal cocktail specials. Amalga also offers canned cocktails to-go, making it easy to take a piece of the Juneau experience home with you. The staff is known for their friendliness and passion, ensuring that every visit feels personal and engaging.
Beyond the drinks, Amalga Distillery also features a curated selection of provisions and gift items—many of which are vegan-friendly. The vibe is casual yet refined, and the setting is perfect for sampling Alaska in a glass while soaking in the charm of downtown Juneau.
6) Holy Trinity Church
Holy Trinity Church is a historic and resilient parish. The current building, completed in 2009, was constructed after a devastating fire destroyed the original structure on March 12, 2006. Despite the loss, the congregation rebuilt and continues to serve as a vibrant spiritual center for the community.
The original Holy Trinity Church was built in 1896 and designed by architect George E. James in the Carpenter Gothic style. Constructed by Foss and Olsen, the charming wood-frame building featured steeply pitched roofs and lancet windows characteristic of the Gothic Revival movement. Sometime before 1914, the church was elevated to include a basement, and while a parish hall was added in 1956, it did not reflect the Gothic design of the original church. From 1918 to 1944, Holy Trinity held the distinction of serving as the pro-cathedral for the Episcopal Diocese of Alaska, underscoring its importance in the region.
The significance of Holy Trinity Church was recognized nationally when the original structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 19, 1978. Although the original building no longer stands, the church’s legacy endures in its rebuilt form.
The original Holy Trinity Church was built in 1896 and designed by architect George E. James in the Carpenter Gothic style. Constructed by Foss and Olsen, the charming wood-frame building featured steeply pitched roofs and lancet windows characteristic of the Gothic Revival movement. Sometime before 1914, the church was elevated to include a basement, and while a parish hall was added in 1956, it did not reflect the Gothic design of the original church. From 1918 to 1944, Holy Trinity held the distinction of serving as the pro-cathedral for the Episcopal Diocese of Alaska, underscoring its importance in the region.
The significance of Holy Trinity Church was recognized nationally when the original structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 19, 1978. Although the original building no longer stands, the church’s legacy endures in its rebuilt form.
7) Co-Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Co-Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary holds a unique place in the history of the Catholic Church in the state. Originally established as a parish in 1885 to serve the growing mining community of the Silverbow Basin, its first church building was erected a year later. The current structure, completed in 1910, replaced that original building and later gained prominence when it was elevated to cathedral status in 1951 with the formation of the Diocese of Juneau.
Though modest in size—possibly the smallest cathedral in North America—the church has played a significant role in the spiritual life of Juneau’s Catholic community. Over the decades, it witnessed the growth of the church in Southeast Alaska, including the establishment of St. Paul the Apostle Parish in the Mendenhall Valley in 1972. The cathedral's compact stature contrasts with its expansive legacy of service, outreach, and resilience in Alaska's capital city.
In 2020, a major milestone marked a new chapter in the cathedral's history. Following a merger between the Diocese of Juneau and the Archdiocese of Anchorage, the cathedral became a co-cathedral of the newly formed Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau, sharing the designation with Our Lady of Guadalupe Cathedral in Anchorage.
Though modest in size—possibly the smallest cathedral in North America—the church has played a significant role in the spiritual life of Juneau’s Catholic community. Over the decades, it witnessed the growth of the church in Southeast Alaska, including the establishment of St. Paul the Apostle Parish in the Mendenhall Valley in 1972. The cathedral's compact stature contrasts with its expansive legacy of service, outreach, and resilience in Alaska's capital city.
In 2020, a major milestone marked a new chapter in the cathedral's history. Following a merger between the Diocese of Juneau and the Archdiocese of Anchorage, the cathedral became a co-cathedral of the newly formed Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau, sharing the designation with Our Lady of Guadalupe Cathedral in Anchorage.
8) Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church (must see)
Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church is a remarkable testament to the blending of Native Alaskan spirituality and Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Built in 1894 with funds and religious artwork sent from Russia, the church stands out with its unique octagonal architecture and traditional Orthodox iconography. While no Russian settlers lived in Juneau at the time, the church was founded by and for the local Tlingit population, who had requested baptism and religious instruction after facing cultural suppression from Protestant missionaries during the gold rush era.
The decision to embrace Orthodoxy was deeply personal and spiritual for the Tlingit leaders. Having been denied the use of their language in Protestant services, they turned to a faith that had already been practiced in Tlingit for decades in nearby Sitka. A powerful dream shared among the leaders—of a short, bald, white-bearded man who urged them to seek instruction—led them to the Orthodox bishop in Sitka, where they recognized the man from their dream in an icon of Saint Nicholas of Myra. This profound experience inspired them to name their new church in his honor, and his image remains an important feature in the church’s icon screen.
Today, Saint Nicholas Church continues to serve a small but vibrant Orthodox Christian community in Juneau. With around 50 families in the parish and more in nearby villages, the church has experienced renewed growth in recent years, offering youth programs and Sunday School for the first time in over three decades.
The decision to embrace Orthodoxy was deeply personal and spiritual for the Tlingit leaders. Having been denied the use of their language in Protestant services, they turned to a faith that had already been practiced in Tlingit for decades in nearby Sitka. A powerful dream shared among the leaders—of a short, bald, white-bearded man who urged them to seek instruction—led them to the Orthodox bishop in Sitka, where they recognized the man from their dream in an icon of Saint Nicholas of Myra. This profound experience inspired them to name their new church in his honor, and his image remains an important feature in the church’s icon screen.
Today, Saint Nicholas Church continues to serve a small but vibrant Orthodox Christian community in Juneau. With around 50 families in the parish and more in nearby villages, the church has experienced renewed growth in recent years, offering youth programs and Sunday School for the first time in over three decades.
9) Alaska State Capitol (must see)
The Alaska State Capitol stands as a unique symbol of the state's government and frontier heritage. Originally constructed in 1931 as a territorial and federal building, it transitioned into its role as the seat of the Alaska Legislature after the state gained statehood in 1959. Unlike many other U.S. capitol buildings, Alaska’s does not feature a dome or expansive landscaped grounds, a reflection of the financial and logistical challenges faced during its construction. Instead, the six-story brick and concrete structure, with Indiana limestone and Tokeen marble accents, resembles a modest office building from the outside.
Inside, however, the Capitol offers rich displays of Alaskan culture, history, and politics. Visitors can explore self-guided tours on weekdays, beginning in the lobby which features murals titled Harvest of the Land and Harvest of the Sea, celebrating Alaska's longstanding traditions of hunting and fishing. A bust of civil rights activist Elizabeth Peratrovich greets guests, highlighting Alaska's Indigenous history. The second floor is home to the legislative chambers of the Alaska Senate and House of Representatives, where early photographs of Juneau and tributes to Alaska’s first U.S. senators add to the building’s historical atmosphere.
Though its architecture may appear unassuming, the Alaska State Capitol is filled with character and symbolism. From the exterior’s stately Tokeen marble columns to the interior's intimate committee rooms and historical art, the building reflects Alaska’s resilient spirit. A replica of the Liberty Bell stands just outside, a reminder of the state's place in the wider American story.
Inside, however, the Capitol offers rich displays of Alaskan culture, history, and politics. Visitors can explore self-guided tours on weekdays, beginning in the lobby which features murals titled Harvest of the Land and Harvest of the Sea, celebrating Alaska's longstanding traditions of hunting and fishing. A bust of civil rights activist Elizabeth Peratrovich greets guests, highlighting Alaska's Indigenous history. The second floor is home to the legislative chambers of the Alaska Senate and House of Representatives, where early photographs of Juneau and tributes to Alaska’s first U.S. senators add to the building’s historical atmosphere.
Though its architecture may appear unassuming, the Alaska State Capitol is filled with character and symbolism. From the exterior’s stately Tokeen marble columns to the interior's intimate committee rooms and historical art, the building reflects Alaska’s resilient spirit. A replica of the Liberty Bell stands just outside, a reminder of the state's place in the wider American story.
10) Juneau-Douglas City Museum
The Juneau-Douglas City Museum, located directly across from the Alaska State Capitol, is a cultural gem offering insights into the capital’s unique heritage. Housed in a stately Classical Revival building originally constructed between 1950 and 1951 as the Juneau Memorial Library, the structure itself is a notable part of the city’s history. Made of concrete with elegant red marble accents, the building features a grand, recessed entrance framed by a pedimented projection and flanked by tall awning windows, giving it a refined and welcoming presence.
Inside, the museum's exhibits highlight the diverse stories that have shaped Juneau and the surrounding region. From the heyday of gold mining to the development of hydropower, visitors can explore the industries that fueled the city’s growth. The museum also delves into Juneau’s vibrant outdoor culture—featuring skiing, fishing, and recreation—as well as its political evolution and daily life through the decades. The stained-glass window and thoughtfully curated displays bring the city’s past vividly to life.
After serving as Juneau’s main library for several decades, the building was transformed into the city museum in the 1980s, ensuring its continued role as a place of learning and community memory. Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
Inside, the museum's exhibits highlight the diverse stories that have shaped Juneau and the surrounding region. From the heyday of gold mining to the development of hydropower, visitors can explore the industries that fueled the city’s growth. The museum also delves into Juneau’s vibrant outdoor culture—featuring skiing, fishing, and recreation—as well as its political evolution and daily life through the decades. The stained-glass window and thoughtfully curated displays bring the city’s past vividly to life.
After serving as Juneau’s main library for several decades, the building was transformed into the city museum in the 1980s, ensuring its continued role as a place of learning and community memory. Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
11) Sealaska Heritage and Walter Soboleff Building
The Sealaska Heritage Institute, founded in 1980 to preserve and promote the cultures of Southeast Alaska’s Native peoples, finds its stunning home in the Walter Soboleff Building, which opened in downtown Juneau in 2015.
More than just a headquarters, the building is itself a vibrant cultural statement—adorned with monumental works by renowned Native artists such as David A. Boxley, Preston Singletary, and Robert Davidson. From the moment visitors approach the striking red metal panels outside to stepping into the warm, cedar-scented replica of a clan house inside, the building offers an immersive experience into the lifeways and stories of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.
Inside, the exhibits are rich with meaning and tradition. One highlight is the clan house, where guests can hear ancient stories passed down through generations. Other exhibits showcase Native masks, regalia, and contemporary interpretations of traditional art forms—each piece offering insight into the history, identity, and resilience of Alaska Native communities. The Walter Soboleff Building is a space where Native voices lead the conversation, inviting visitors to understand the land and its people from Indigenous perspectives.
A visit wouldn't be complete without stopping at the Sealaska Heritage Store, which features one of the best collections of authentic Alaska Native art and gifts in Juneau. From finely crafted jewelry and hand-carved totems to contemporary apparel and home décor, each item connects guests to Alaska's rich cultural landscape. Even better, every purchase directly supports programs that sustain Native languages, arts, and traditions.
More than just a headquarters, the building is itself a vibrant cultural statement—adorned with monumental works by renowned Native artists such as David A. Boxley, Preston Singletary, and Robert Davidson. From the moment visitors approach the striking red metal panels outside to stepping into the warm, cedar-scented replica of a clan house inside, the building offers an immersive experience into the lifeways and stories of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.
Inside, the exhibits are rich with meaning and tradition. One highlight is the clan house, where guests can hear ancient stories passed down through generations. Other exhibits showcase Native masks, regalia, and contemporary interpretations of traditional art forms—each piece offering insight into the history, identity, and resilience of Alaska Native communities. The Walter Soboleff Building is a space where Native voices lead the conversation, inviting visitors to understand the land and its people from Indigenous perspectives.
A visit wouldn't be complete without stopping at the Sealaska Heritage Store, which features one of the best collections of authentic Alaska Native art and gifts in Juneau. From finely crafted jewelry and hand-carved totems to contemporary apparel and home décor, each item connects guests to Alaska's rich cultural landscape. Even better, every purchase directly supports programs that sustain Native languages, arts, and traditions.
12) Statue of Patsy Ann
The Statue of Patsy Ann, Juneau’s beloved canine icon, stands proudly on the downtown cruise ship dock, greeting visitors just as the real Patsy Ann did nearly a century ago. A bull terrier who arrived in Juneau in 1929, Patsy Ann captured the hearts of locals with her daily wanderings and uncanny ability to detect incoming ships despite being completely deaf. In 1934, Mayor Goldstein officially proclaimed her the “Official Greeter of Juneau, Alaska,” cementing her status as a city legend.
Patsy Ann was a fixture of downtown Juneau, known for her routines that included strolling through the Coliseum Theater, stopping in shops for treats, and even leaving her paw prints on freshly paved sidewalks. Her story was often chronicled in the local newspaper, highlighting her playful spirit and mysterious gift for knowing when ships were coming into port—always arriving in time to welcome passengers with a wagging tail.
Though she passed away in 1942, her legacy endures through the bronze statue created by artist Anna Burke Harris. Unveiled on the dock between Marine Park and the library, the statue includes clippings of dog hair from around the world, symbolizing the universal bond between people and their canine companions. Visitors are invited to greet Patsy Ann and touch her statue for good luck and to carry forward her message of friendship and joy—just as she would have wanted.
Patsy Ann was a fixture of downtown Juneau, known for her routines that included strolling through the Coliseum Theater, stopping in shops for treats, and even leaving her paw prints on freshly paved sidewalks. Her story was often chronicled in the local newspaper, highlighting her playful spirit and mysterious gift for knowing when ships were coming into port—always arriving in time to welcome passengers with a wagging tail.
Though she passed away in 1942, her legacy endures through the bronze statue created by artist Anna Burke Harris. Unveiled on the dock between Marine Park and the library, the statue includes clippings of dog hair from around the world, symbolizing the universal bond between people and their canine companions. Visitors are invited to greet Patsy Ann and touch her statue for good luck and to carry forward her message of friendship and joy—just as she would have wanted.
Walking Tours in Juneau, Alaska
Create Your Own Walk in Juneau
Creating your own self-guided walk in Juneau is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Historical Buildings Walking Tour
Juneau’s architecture tells a story as rich as its gold-laced past. Scattered across the downtown area and nearby neighborhoods are buildings that reflect the city’s beginnings, its role in Alaska’s territorial history, and the strength of the local community over time. These landmarks, preserved and repurposed, offer a unique way to trace Juneau’s past through its physical spaces.
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
With... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
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