Best Places to Stay in Juneau Alaska: My Favorite Hotels for Every Type of Traveler
Juneau is unlike any other city in Alaska. As Alaska’s capital city, it sits between towering mountains and the waters of the Inside Passage, with no roads connecting it to the rest of the state. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship, flying into Juneau International Airport, or planning a longer Southeast Alaska adventure, choosing the right hotel can make a huge difference.
The best places to stay in Juneau Alaska depend on your travel style. Some visitors want a downtown location within walking distance of restaurants and attractions, while others prefer easy access to the Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching tours, or outdoor adventures around Auke Bay.
This guide shares my recommendations of the best places to stay in Juneau, including luxury hotels, historic inns, extended-stay options, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Quick Guide: Best Areas to Stay in Juneau
Before diving into specific hotels, here’s a quick overview of the different areas.
Downtown Juneau
Best for:
- Cruise passengers staying overnight
- First-time visitors
- Walking to restaurants and attractions
- Historic charm
You’ll be close to:
- Mount Roberts Tramway
- Alaska State Museum
- Famous Red Dog Saloon
- Cruise ship docks
- Whale watching tour departures
Mendenhall Valley
Best for:
- Families
- Longer stays
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Easy airport access
You’ll be near:
- Mendenhall Glacier
- Juneau Airport
- Shopping and grocery stores
- Public transport
Auke Bay
Best for:
- Wildlife viewing
- Fishing charters
- Adventure travelers
- Quiet scenery
This area offers unparalleled access to whale watching excursions and some of the best local hiking trails in the Juneau area.
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Best Downtown Juneau Hotels
Silverbow Inn
One of the most popular boutique hotels in the heart of downtown, Silverbow Inn combines local charm with modern conveniences.
Why you’ll love it:
- Prime downtown location
- Walking distance to cruise ships
- Rooftop hot tub
- Complimentary breakfast
- Easy access to restaurants
The rooftop hot tub overlooking downtown Juneau is one of the property’s standout features. For travelers wanting a unique Alaska experience, this is a great place to stay.
Best For: Couples and cruise passengers
Baranof Downtown, BW Signature Collection
Formerly known as the historic Baranof Hotel, this BW Signature Collection property offers a classic Juneau stay in the city center.
Highlights include:
- Heart of downtown location
- Comfortable rooms
- Fitness center
- Business center
- Short walk to attractions
Business travelers often choose this property because of its convenient location near federal buildings and government offices.
Best For: Business travelers and first-time visitors
Alaskan Hotel
The Alaskan Hotel is one of the oldest operating hotels in Alaska and is a favorite among travelers looking for local charm, historic character, and a true taste of old Juneau.
Reasons to stay:
- Historic atmosphere
- Local charm
- Downtown stay
- Walking distance to attractions
- Affordable rates compared to newer hotels
If you enjoy staying somewhere with character rather than a large chain hotel, this may be the perfect place.
Best For: History lovers
Sheraton Juneau Hotel
For travelers wanting a full-service hotel, Sheraton Juneau remains one of the top choices.
Amenities include:
- Spacious guest rooms
- Fitness center
- Business center
- Downtown location
- Harbor and mountain views from select rooms
The hotel sits close to the cruise docks, making it a great way to extend your Alaska cruise vacation.
Best For: Comfort and convenience
Best Mendenhall Valley Hotels
The Mendenhall Valley is often considered the best area for visitors wanting easy access to the glacier and Juneau Airport.
Aspen Suites Hotel Juneau
Aspen Suites Hotel Juneau is one of my favorite recommendations for longer stays thanks to its full kitchens, spacious rooms, and convenient location near Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau Airport.
What makes it stand out:
- Full kitchens
- Laundry facilities
- Spacious rooms
- Free parking
- Home-like atmosphere
If you’re planning extended stays or a long Alaska itinerary, having a kitchen can save quite a bit of money in an expensive destination like Juneau.
Best For: Longer stays and families
Frontier Suites Hotel
Located near Juneau International Airport, Frontier Suites Hotel is a popular choice for families, adventure travelers, and visitors planning longer stays in Juneau thanks to its spacious suites and kitchenette options.
Highlights:
- Airport shuttle service
- Spacious rooms
- Kitchenette options
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
The hotel provides easy access to both commercial flights and the Mendenhall Glacier.
Best For: Families and adventure travelers
Best Western Country Lane Inn
This budget-friendly option is located west of the Mendenhall Valley and offers solid value.
Guests appreciate:
- Free breakfast
- Comfortable beds
- Free parking
- Convenient location
- Friendly service
For travelers looking to spend a little money while still enjoying a comfortable stay, this is a strong choice.
Best For: Budget travelers
Best Hotels Near Juneau Airport
Best Western Grandma’s Feather Bed
This charming property feels more like a cozy inn than a traditional hotel.
Why visitors love it:
- Complimentary airport shuttle service
- Free breakfast
- Unique Alaska decor
- Comfortable rooms
- Personalized service
Many travelers staying before an early flight find this one of the most convenient hotels near Juneau Airport.
Best For: Overnight stays before or after flights
Best Places to Stay Near Auke Bay
Auke Bay is the launching point for many of Juneau’s most popular attractions.
Visitors choose this area for:
- Whale watching
- Wildlife viewing
- Fishing charters
- Access to Tongass National Forest
- Scenic waterfront views
Staying here provides easy access to excursions while offering a quieter alternative to downtown.
Best Vacation Rentals for Extended Stays
For families and groups, vacation rentals can be a great way to experience Southeast Alaska.
Many rentals offer:
- Full kitchens
- Multiple bedrooms
- Laundry facilities
- Free parking
- More space than traditional hotel rooms
They’re especially useful for visitors planning to explore the Juneau Icefield, Mendenhall Glacier, and surrounding state park areas over several days.
Where Should First-Time Visitors Stay in Juneau?
For most travelers, I recommend staying in Downtown Juneau.
Pros of staying downtown include:
- Walking distance to attractions
- Cruise ship access
- Restaurants and shopping nearby
- Historic atmosphere
- Easy transportation options
If your main goal is exploring the Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching, and outdoor activities, the Mendenhall Valley or Auke Bay may be the best way to maximize your time.
Best Time to Visit Juneau
The best time to visit Juneau is generally from May through September.
Summer offers:
- Long daylight hours
- Whale watching opportunities
- Wildlife viewing
- Easier access to popular attractions
- Better weather for outdoor adventures
This is also when cruise ships regularly visit Alaska’s capital.
Planning Your Alaska Vacation?
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Juneau Alaska
The best places to stay in Juneau Alaska depend on what type of trip you’re planning. If you want to be in the heart of Juneau with restaurants and attractions just a short walk away, downtown hotels like Silverbow Inn, Sheraton Juneau, and Baranof Downtown are excellent choices.
For visitors wanting easy access to Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau International Airport, Aspen Suites Hotel Juneau, Frontier Suites Hotel, and Best Western Country Lane Inn provide convenient alternatives.
No matter where you stay, Juneau offers a unique combination of glaciers, wildlife, mountains, and coastal scenery that make it one of the most memorable destinations in Southeast Alaska.
Internal Links to Add
- Best Things to Do in Juneau Alaska
- Best Alaska Cruise Ports
- Alaska Itinerary 6 Days
- Best Time to Visit Alaska
- Alaska Packing List
- Best Alaska Tours for Seniors
- Alaska Wildlife Guide
- Alaska Cruise From Seattle
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FAQs for Best Places to Stay in Juneau
For first-time visitors, Downtown Juneau is often the best area to stay in Juneau Alaska because it offers walking distance access to restaurants, attractions, cruise ship docks, and whale watching tours. Travelers interested in outdoor adventures may prefer Mendenhall Valley or Auke Bay.
Downtown Juneau is best for visitors who want easy access to attractions, restaurants, and cruise ships. Mendenhall Valley is a great choice for families, longer stays, and travelers who want to be closer to Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau International Airport.
Some of the best Mendenhall Valley hotels include Aspen Suites Hotel Juneau, Frontier Suites Hotel, and Best Western Country Lane Inn. These properties offer convenient access to Mendenhall Glacier while providing easy airport access.
Aspen Suites Hotel Juneau is one of the best options for longer stays because it offers full kitchens, spacious rooms, laundry facilities, and a home-like atmosphere. Frontier Suites Hotel is another good choice for extended stays.
Yes. Several hotels are located near Juneau International Airport, including Frontier Suites Hotel and Best Western Grandma’s Feather Bed. Many airport-area hotels also offer shuttle service and convenient access to commercial flights.
The best time to visit Juneau is typically between May and September when visitors can enjoy whale watching, wildlife viewing, hiking, and easier access to popular attractions throughout Southeast Alaska.
Yes. Many travelers spend one or more nights in Juneau before or after an Alaska cruise. Downtown hotels such as Silverbow Inn, Sheraton Juneau, Baranof Downtown, and the Alaskan Hotel offer convenient access to cruise ship docks and local attractions.
