Best Places to Enjoy Local Beer in Juneau, Alaska
If you’re looking for the best local beer in Juneau, Alaska, you’re in for a treat. From award-winning breweries to historic saloons and seafood restaurants serving Alaskan beer, Juneau offers plenty of ways to enjoy a cold drink during your Alaska adventure.
Whether you’re arriving at the cruise ship docks for a day in port or spending several nights exploring Southeast Alaska, you’ll find excellent tasting rooms, local flavors, and scenic stops throughout the city.
This guide covers the best breweries, beer experiences, and restaurants where you can enjoy a pint in the heart of Juneau.
Quick Beer Stops Near the Cruise Port
| Location | From Cruise Docks |
|---|---|
| Devil’s Club Brewing | Walk |
| Red Dog Saloon | Walk |
| Tracy’s King Crab Shack | Walk |
| Deckhand Dave’s | Short taxi |
| Forbidden Peak Brewery | Taxi/Uber |
| Alaskan Brewing Company | Taxi/Shuttle |
Why Juneau Is a Great Destination for Beer Lovers
Juneau’s rich history of brewing dates back to Alaska’s early mining days. The Gold Rush Era brought prospectors, merchants, and adventurers to the region, creating demand for local beer and gathering places throughout the territory.
Today, local breweries continue that tradition by producing award-winning beers inspired by the landscapes, ingredients, and culture of the Great State of Alaska.
For cruise visitors, one of the best things about Juneau’s beer scene is how accessible it is. Many locations are in downtown Juneau or just a short drive from the cruise port.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support Costa Bella Travel and allow me to continue creating free travel guides and resources. As always, I only recommend experiences and accommodations I would confidently suggest to my own clients.
1. Alaskan Brewing Company
No beer guide would be complete without Alaskan Brewing Company, the most famous brewery in Alaska.
Founded by Geoff Larson and Marcy Larson, the brewery has become one of the state’s most recognized brands. The founders researched the rich history of brewing in Alaska, including records from explorers of the 1700s and some of Alaska’s earliest brewing operations.
Today, visitors can sample award-winning beers in the tasting room while learning about the brewery’s history and sustainability efforts.
Why Visit
- Famous Alaskan Amber
- Seasonal releases and Alaskan’s newest brews
- Educational exhibits
- Tasting room experience
- Located in Mendenhall Valley
This is often the first brewery stop for visitors looking to experience authentic Alaskan beer.
Looking to sample local seafood and craft beverages? Food tours are a great way to experience local flavors in downtown Juneau.
2. Devil’s Club Brewing Company
Located in downtown Juneau, Devil’s Club Brewing Company offers one of the most convenient brewery experiences for cruise passengers.
Its location near the cruise ship docks makes it easy to visit during a port day, and the friendly staff are always happy to recommend seasonal favorites.
Named after the native Devil’s Club plant found throughout Southeast Alaska, the brewery focuses on local ingredients and small-batch brewing.
Why Visitors Love It
- Easy cruise port accessort port visit.
- Walkable from downtown Juneau
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Rotating taps
- Excellent tasting room
3. Forbidden Peak Brewery
Located near Auke Bay, Forbidden Peak Brewery combines great food, local beer, and beautiful scenery.
Many visitors stop here before or after whale watching tours, making it a perfect companion to a day spent exploring Alaska’s coastal waters.
The brewery offers a variety of craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors.
Highlights
- Great food and beer pairings
- Convenient location near Auke Bay
- Family-friendly environment
- Local craft beer selection
- Scenic stop outside downtown
Many visitors pair a stop at Forbidden Peak Brewery with a whale watching excursion departing from nearby Auke Bay.
4. Red Dog Saloon
If you’re looking for a true Juneau institution, head to the Red Dog Saloon.
Located in the historic district of downtown Juneau, this legendary saloon embraces the city’s mining heritage and Gold Rush character. While it isn’t a brewery, it remains one of the best places to enjoy local beer and soak up Alaska history.
The atmosphere, live music, and historic décor make it one of the most memorable stops near the cruise port.
Why Visit
- Historic Juneau landmark
- Easy walk from cruise ship docks
- Local beer selection
- Fun atmosphere
- Gold Rush history
5. Tracy’s King Crab Shack
A visit to Juneau isn’t complete without fresh Alaska seafood.
Tracy’s King Crab Shack serves local beer alongside some of the city’s most famous king crab dishes. Located near downtown Juneau and the cruise port, it’s a favorite among cruise passengers.
Pairing fresh seafood with a cold Alaskan beer is one of the best ways to experience local flavors.
6. Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos
For a more casual dining experience, Deckhand Dave’s is a local favorite.
Known for excellent fish tacos and a rotating beer selection, this popular eatery offers visitors a chance to enjoy great food and good beer in a relaxed setting.
It’s often recommended by locals as one of the best places to eat in Juneau.
7. SALT
For travelers seeking a more upscale experience, SALT offers elevated Alaska cuisine and carefully selected beverage pairings.
The restaurant highlights local ingredients and often features Alaskan beer options that complement fresh seafood and regional specialties.
It’s an excellent choice for couples looking for a memorable evening in Juneau.
Best Time to Visit Juneau Breweries and Beer Stops
The best time to explore Juneau breweries is during Alaska’s cruise season from May The best time to visit is during Alaska’s cruise season from May through September.
Summer brings:
- Longer daylight hours
- Peak brewery tour availability
- Seasonal beer releases
- Outdoor dining opportunities
Many visitors combine brewery visits with whale watching, glacier excursions, or exploring downtown Juneau.
If you’d rather not worry about transportation, several guided brewery tours combine local tastings, transportation, and insight into Juneau’s brewing scene.
Which Beer Stop Is Best for You?
| Location | Best For |
|---|---|
| Alaskan Brewing Company | First-time visitors |
| Devil’s Club Brewing | Cruise passengers |
| Forbidden Peak Brewery | Food and beer pairings |
| Red Dog Saloon | Historic atmosphere |
| Tracy’s King Crab Shack | Seafood lovers |
| Deckhand Dave’s | Casual dining |
| SALT | Upscale dining |
Keep Exploring Alaska
- Things to Do in Juneau
- Best Places to Stay in Juneau
- Alaska Cruise Ports
- Alaska Packing List
- Alaska Wildlife Guide
- Day Trips From Fairbanks
- Best Alaska Tours for Seniors
Planning an Alaska Cruise?
Ready to explore Juneau’s breweries, seafood restaurants, and unforgettable Alaska experiences? Grab my free Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist and start planning your adventure today.
Juneau Breweries FAQ Section
Alaskan Brewing Company is the most famous brewery in Juneau and one of the best-known craft breweries in Alaska.
Yes. Devil’s Club Brewing Company is located in downtown Juneau and is within walking distance of the cruise ship docks.
Yes. Several local tour operators offer brewery tours that include transportation and tastings.
Most visitors enjoy Juneau breweries between May and September during Alaska’s cruise season.
No. The Red Dog Saloon is a historic saloon that serves local beer and offers one of Juneau’s most iconic drinking experiences.
Forbidden Peak Brewery, Tracy’s King Crab Shack, and SALT are all excellent options depending on your dining preferences.
