Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau’s Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!

Introduction

Our review of the “Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau’s Brewery & Sightseeing Tour” offers a glimpse into a lively, informative experience perfect for those who love good beer and stunning scenery. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful design suggest it’s a genuine highlight for visitors eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to taste Juneau’s best craft beers at four different breweries and the chance to enjoy spectacular views of glaciers and mountains from key vantage points. The tour is a thoughtfully curated blend of local flavor and sightseeing, providing a sense of authentic Juneau life and scenery that few other experiences can match.

One potential consideration is the duration—just under four hours—so travelers should be comfortable with a relaxed pace that includes multiple stops and some scenic time outdoors. Also, the tour is popular, often booked 104 days in advance, so planning ahead is essential if you want to secure your spot.

This tour is ideal for adventurous food and drink lovers, curious travelers eager to see more of Juneau, and anyone who appreciates a mix of culture, scenery, and good company. It offers a memorable way to experience the city’s local scene while enjoying some of its most iconic sights.

This experience made our article of 2 Top-Rated Juneau Drinking Tours.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Visit four different breweries, each offering unique flavors and atmospheres.
• Spectacular scenery: See the Mendenhall Glacier and other stunning views from designated lookout points.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insight into Juneau’s craft beer scene and local sights.
• Scenic transportation: The tour takes you beyond downtown, incorporating beautiful views and less touristy spots.
• Family-friendly: Youth over 10 can join with guardians; no beverages for minors.
• Good value: Price covers four signature beer tastings, snacks, and scenic stops, offering a well-rounded experience.

A Detailed Look at the Juneau Brewery & Sightseeing Tour

The Experience Overview

At roughly $159 per person, this three hour and forty-five-minute tour offers a well-rounded package of craft beer tasting and breathtaking scenery. The tour is designed for small groups (up to 14 travelers), which means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Starting at Elizabeth Peratrovich Plaza in Juneau, your adventure takes you beyond the bustling downtown to some unique spots most visitors don’t see on their own.

What Makes It Special

The appeal of this experience lies in its balance—you’re not just sipping beer, but also taking in some of Juneau’s most iconic views and hearing stories from locals. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, making the tour both informative and fun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Devil’s Club Brewing Company

Your journey begins at Devil’s Club Brewing, a spot praised for its creative, fresh beers and friendly atmosphere. This downtown gem often impresses visitors with its casual vibe and innovative brews. For many, it’s a perfect way to kick things off, getting a taste of what Juneau’s craft scene has to offer. You’ll spend about 45 minutes here, sampling a signature flight included in the ticket price.

Stop 2: Alaskan Brewing Co.

Next is Alaskan Brewing, the original craft brewery in Juneau, established in 1986. This brewery’s warm, purpose-built taproom provides a comfortable setting to enjoy a variety of award-winning beers. Because it’s outside downtown, it offers a different vibe—more spacious and scenic. A 45-minute visit here means ample time to sample their offerings and perhaps chat with staff about what makes their beers special.

Scenic Viewpoint: Brotherhood Bridge

After the breweries, the tour shifts focus from beer to breathtaking scenery with a quick 10-minute stop at Brotherhood Bridge. Here, you’ll enjoy epic views of Mendenhall Glacier, the river, and towering mountain peaks. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a reminder of the incredible natural beauty surrounding Juneau.

Stop 3: Forbidden Peak Brewery

The final brewery stop is at Forbidden Peak Brewing in Auke Bay, perched above the harbor. This spot is a favorite among locals and offers a less touristy, more authentic local vibe. You’ll spend 45 minutes sampling beers and taking in the harbor views. This brewery’s location provides a great chance to appreciate the Alaskan landscape while enjoying your last beer tasting.

Final Stop: Overstreet Park & Whale Statue

The tour ends at Overstreet Park, home to Juneau’s famous whale statue. Completed in 2018, it’s since become a photo magnet and local icon. A quick 10-minute visit allows you to snap pictures, soak in the waterfront atmosphere, and reflect on your day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers four tasting flights—one at each brewery—which means you’ll get to sample a good variety of local brews. Also included are snacks (chips and kelp salsa from Barnacle Foods), making the experience more satisfying. However, gratuities are not included, and youth tickets don’t include beverages but are available for young travelers over 10.

The Guide & Group Size

The tour’s small group size (max 14) ensures a comfortable, engaging experience. Guides are typically local and knowledgeable, with reviews praising Derrick’s insider information and personable style, which adds depth to the tour beyond just tasting beers.

Timing & Booking

Since the tour is popular—booked on average 104 days in advance—early planning is recommended. The confirmation is immediate, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible even if you’re not driving.

The Value

For $159, you’re getting a curated tour of four different breweries, scenic viewpoints, snacks, and local insights. Compared to doing all of this independently, it offers convenience, guidance, and social ambiance that are hard to match. If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or someone eager to see Juneau’s natural beauty, this tour offers a well-balanced experience.

Authenticity & Authentic Experiences

Reviewers consistently mention the local knowledge and friendly guides as highlights. One said, “It’s nice to get out of the tourist sections and experience the local scene,” which captures the tour’s appeal perfectly. The scenic stops, especially Brotherhood Bridge and Overstreet Park, allow you to connect with Juneau’s environment in a way that’s hard to replicate on your own.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration—nearly four hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace with multiple stops. Also, since alcohol is involved, the tour isn’t suitable for minors (though youth over 10 may participate with guardians). The tour’s popularity means that planning well in advance improves your chances of securing a spot.

The Sum Up

This “Craft Brews & Epic Views” tour provides a fantastic mix of local craft beer and spectacular scenery, making it a great choice for visitors wanting to get a taste of Juneau’s authentic character. The combination of knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and quality beers ensures a memorable outing that blends social fun with natural beauty.

It’s especially well-suited for adventurous travelers, beer enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates authentic local experiences paired with beautiful landscapes. If you’re looking for a laid-back, engaging, and scenic way to explore Juneau’s beyond-the-tourist-path neighborhoods and natural wonders, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, youth over 10 years old can join with guardians, but they won’t receive beverages. It’s a good option for families wanting to combine sightseeing with safe, supervised tasting.

What’s included in the ticket price?
You get four signature tasting flights (one at each brewery), snacks (chips and kelp salsa), and guided commentary throughout the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. This flexibility is especially helpful in case of travel changes.

Is transportation provided between stops?
The tour covers different locations outside downtown, so transportation between breweries and scenic spots is included as part of the overall experience. The tour is designed to be accessible and convenient.

How long is each stop?
Each brewery stop lasts approximately 45 minutes, with scenic stops like Brotherhood Bridge and Overstreet Park around 10 minutes each. This pacing allows for relaxed tasting and sightseeing.

Are the breweries easily accessible?
Yes, all four breweries are located within manageable distances from downtown Juneau, with some in the city center and others slightly outside.

What about the scenery—what can I expect?
Expect stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and waterfronts, especially at Brotherhood Bridge and Overstreet Park. The scenery is a highlight worth the visit on its own.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the main focus is on beer tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic views and learn about Juneau’s local scene, but they might find less to do at tasting stops.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

Can I join if I’m not a beer drinker?
Yes, you can still enjoy the scenic highlights and learn about Juneau’s local culture. However, the tasting component is central to the tour.

This guided brewery and sightseeing tour offers a thoughtful way to experience Juneau’s local flavor and natural beauty, perfect for curious travelers who want more than just the usual tourist attractions.