Juneau: Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops

Juneau: Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops — A Cozy Look at Alaska’s Local Flavors and Views

If you’re considering a way to experience Juneau beyond the usual sightseeing, this craft beer tour offers a relaxed glimpse into Alaska’s brewing culture paired with some seriously stunning scenery. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but from what’s shared, it looks like a solid choice for anyone who enjoys a cold brew and appreciates breathtaking views.

What really catches our eye is how this tour combines tastings at three distinct breweries with scenic moments like viewing the Mendenhall Glacier and the iconic Waterfront Whale Statue. Plus, it’s small-group, which usually means a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide. That’s a plus in our book.

One thing to keep in mind is that at $159 per person, you’re paying for both the tastings and the scenic stops—so it’s about getting a well-rounded taste of Juneau’s local scene without feeling rushed. This tour is likely best suited for adults and older travelers who want a mix of drinks and nature or for groups that enjoy light social outings with some sightseeing thrown in.

Key Points

• Taste Juneau’s finest craft beers at three local breweries, including Alaskan Brewing Company
• Learn about Alaska’s brewing history and the unique flavors that come from the region
• Enjoy scenic views of Mendenhall Glacier from Brotherhood Park and the Waterfront Whale Statue
• Experience the city beyond downtown — exploring the Mendenhall Valley and Auke Bay
• Small group setting (max 14 guests) for a more intimate experience
• Flexible timing options in the morning or afternoon

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Juneau Craft Beer & Scenic Tour

This experience promises a rewarding mix of flavors, sights, and stories, all wrapped into about 3.75 hours of fun. Starting at Peratrovich Plaza, a perfectly central meeting spot, your guide will point out landmarks like the Elizabeth Peratrovich mural before hopping into a comfortable van for the ride. From there, the adventure is about savoring local brews and soaking in views.

The Brewery Stops: Local Flavors in Every Sip

You’ll visit three breweries, each offering a different taste of Juneau’s brewing scene. The first stop is Devil’s Club Brewing in historic downtown Juneau. Known for its unique local vibe, this brewery sets the tone for the day. Here, you’ll sample a flight of beers and possibly enjoy a snack, giving you a taste of the city’s creative brewing twist.

Next, you head to Alaska Brewing Company, which holds the distinction of being Alaska’s first craft brewery. There, you’ll get an even deeper understanding of how beer has grown in the region, along with tasting some of their flagship brews. The reviews suggest that this stop is not just about tasting; it’s about learning what makes Alaskan beers unique — how the environment influences the flavors and the history behind each brew.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Forbidden Peak Brewing in Auke Bay. This scenic spot offers a different vibe, often praised for its beautiful setting. Many reviewers appreciate the chance to explore beyond the city center and enjoy a more relaxed, local atmosphere, often paired with stunning views.

Scenic Stops: Views That Make Your Photos Pop

While the brewery visits are the core of this tour, the scenic stops elevate the experience. One highlight is viewing the Mendenhall Glacier from Brotherhood Park, not at the Visitor Center, which means you get a more natural, less crowded perspective. The glacier is an iconic Alaska sight, and from here, you can take photos of its vast, icy expanse while enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Another stop is at the Waterfront Whale Statue, an interesting and playful landmark that helps you connect with Juneau’s maritime identity. It’s a quick stop, but many find it adds a fun touch to the day and provides an excellent photo op with the harbor as a backdrop.

What to Expect During the Tour

The entire experience is guided, friendly, and educational, with a focus on local culture and scenery. The guided tastings at each brewery typically include a flight, so you’ll get to sample several beers, which allows for a real appreciation of the regional flavors.

The small group size (up to 14 guests) keeps the vibe intimate and conversational. The tour lasts around 3 hours and 45 minutes, so it’s easy to fit into a busy day of exploring Juneau.

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Practical Details and Considerations

• Price: At $159, it covers the tastings, snacks, scenic stops, transportation, and the guide. Considering the number of tastings and the scenic value, many find it to be quite a good deal.
• Age Restrictions: You need to be at least 21 to enjoy the beers, though minors (10+) can join the tour if accompanied by a guardian. You will need ID, and proof of guardianship may be required.
• What to Wear: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are a must, especially if the weather is cool or shows signs of rain — typical for Juneau. Don’t forget your camera!
• Duration: Plan for about 4 hours, including travel, tastings, and scenic stops.
• Group size: Small groups (max 14), which tends to create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

The Experience in Practice

From user reviews, it sounds like most people enjoy the tour’s mix of informative breweries and beautiful views. One review highlighted the “stunning glacier views” as a standout moment, while others appreciated the chance to learn about Alaska’s brewing scene in a casual setting.

However, some mention the duration felt just right, though it might be a bit tight if you’re looking for a very leisurely pace. A few noted that the scenic stops are “not at the Visitor Center but from Brotherhood Park,” which provides a less touristy, more authentic feel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is a great pick for adults who enjoy craft beer and want to see more of Juneau’s natural beauty without extensive hiking or boat trips. It’s ideal for those who like a mix of education, socializing, and sightseeing. If you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or even solo travelers looking to meet others, this tour’s small-group vibe fosters a friendly atmosphere.

It’s also suited for those curious about local flavors and Alaska’s brewing heritage. But keep in mind, the tour isn’t designed for families with kids under 10, mainly because of the age restrictions on alcohol.

Final Thoughts

This Juneau craft beer and scenic tour offers more than just tastings; it’s a window into the local culture and stunning landscapes that define Alaska. The combination of three breweries, scenic glacier views, and iconic landmarks makes it a well-rounded experience, especially for travelers who want a taste of both nature and local flavor without the hassle of planning multiple outings.

While it isn’t a wild adventure, it’s a reliable, friendly way to spend part of your day getting to know Juneau a little better. Expect good beers, beautiful scenery, and engaging stories from your guide — a combo that works well for many travelers.

If your trip includes some time in Juneau and you’re looking for a laid-back, fun way to see the sights with a refreshingly local twist, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, non-drinkers can join the tour, but since the focus is on tastings, they won’t be able to partake in the beer samples. However, they can enjoy the scenic stops and learn about the breweries.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This tour is not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility scooters, as it involves walking and vehicle transportation without specific accessibility accommodations.

How long are the scenic stops?
The scenic stops include a view of the Mendenhall Glacier at Brotherhood Park and a quick photo at the Waterfront Whale Statue, both brief but memorable moments.

What should I bring?
Remember your ID or passport, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera for the scenic views, and possibly some water. The tour provides water, but bringing your own isn’t a bad idea.

How flexible is the booking and cancellation?
You can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Will I learn about the brewing process?
Absolutely. Your guide will share insights about the history and flavors of the beers, making the tastings both educational and enjoyable.

Ultimately, this tour offers a nice blend of Alaska’s craft beer scene and its iconic scenery, perfect for those who appreciate local flavors and breathtaking landscapes without overcomplicating things.

You can check availability for your dates here: