Juneau: Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops

Traveling to Juneau offers a unique chance to experience Alaska’s rugged beauty and local flavors. This craft beer tour, offered by Alaska On Tap, promises an engaging mix of tastings at three local breweries and scenic stops that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty.

It’s a great way to combine your interest in craft beer with sightseeing—especially if you enjoy learning about local culture while sipping some of Alaska’s finest brews.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic local breweries like Alaskan Brewing Company—Alaska’s first craft brewery—and the opportunity to explore beyond the downtown area. The scenic stops of Mendenhall Glacier and the Waterfront Whale Statue add a memorable visual dimension that elevates the experience.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those needing mobility assistance, which could be a factor if you have specific mobility needs.

This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers eager to learn about Alaska’s brewing scene, or anyone who appreciates a blend of culinary discovery and scenic views. It’s especially fitting for those who enjoy small-group interactions, as the tour caps at just 14 guests, fostering a more personal experience.

Key Points

• Authentic local breweries experience: Visiting three breweries provides insights into Alaska’s craft beer scene.
• Breathtaking scenic stops: Views of Mendenhall Glacier and the Waterfront Whale Statue make this tour visually memorable.
• Educational tastings: Guided tastings at each brewery include flights and a local snack, enhancing the flavor experience.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel in a small, climate-controlled van designed for easy group interaction.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• Limited group size: Tours are capped at 14 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Craft Beer and Scenic Tour in Juneau

The tour begins at Peratrovich Plaza, a central location next to the Juneau Library and the Elizabeth Peratrovich mural. From here, you’ll hop into a cozy van with a friendly guide leading the way. The small group size—max 14 guests—means you won’t be lost in a crowd. This setup makes it easier to ask questions, get personalized attention, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

The Brewery Stops

Devil’s Club Brewing in historic downtown Juneau marks the first tasting stop. Here, you’ll get a flight to sample local creations, and a snack to complement your beers. The brewery’s location in the historic district adds a sense of local charm to your experience, and the guide will share stories about Juneau’s brewing history, adding context to your tasting.

Next, the group heads to Alaskan Brewing Company, Alaska’s first craft brewery. Known for its pioneering spirit and high-quality beers, this brewery is a highlight for many visitors. You’ll sample several beers, with the guide explaining the ingredients and brewing techniques that make Alaskan brews stand out. Some reviews mention that “the flight was excellent and the guide’s knowledge was impressive,” giving you a deeper appreciation of what you’re drinking.

The third stop is Forbidden Peak Brewing in Auke Bay. This brewery’s location offers a different vibe, often more scenic and less urban, providing a nice contrast. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after the more bustling downtown breweries. Again, you’ll enjoy a flight, and the scenic surroundings of Auke Bay make for a peaceful backdrop.

Scenic Stops: More Than Just Beer

The tour’s scenic component elevates it beyond just beer tasting. A stop at Brotherhood Park in the Mendenhall Valley offers a view of the Mendenhall Glacier, one of Alaska’s most iconic sights. You won’t go inside the Visitor Center, but the view from the park is spectacular and less crowded. Expect to see vast ice fields, towering ice walls, and possibly even some glacier calving if you’re lucky.

The Waterfront Whale Statue—a popular photo spot—serves as a fun and meaningful stop, connecting you to Juneau’s marine life heritage. The guide’s commentary often includes local lore and environmental insights, making the stops informative as well as scenic.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For $159, you’re getting guided tastings at three breweries, each with a flight, plus a snack at one brewery. The transportation, in a comfortable van, ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking. The small-group limit creates an intimate atmosphere that many travelers appreciate, making it easier to connect and ask questions.

The tour lasts about 3.75 hours, a perfect length for combining sightseeing and tasting without feeling rushed. Water is provided throughout, and the guide is there to share insights, answer questions, and ensure everyone has a good time.

More Great Tours Nearby

Overall Experience and What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight that “the scenic views are breathtaking” and “the guide was knowledgeable and friendly.” Many appreciate the blend of local flavor, scenic beauty, and educational commentary. Some mention that the mild walking around scenic stops is manageable, but caution that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns.

The tour’s value lies in its combination of authentic breweries, beautiful landscapes, and personalized attention. It’s a great way to get a well-rounded taste of Juneau’s culture—both the liquid and the visual kind.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This craft beer and scenic tour is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a relaxed, fun, and informative day that goes beyond the usual sightseeing. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group experiences, want to learn about Alaska’s brewing heritage, and love stunning natural scenery. If you’re a beer connoisseur or just curious about local flavors, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Keep in mind, it’s not ideal if you need wheelchair access or have mobility limitations, but for most able-bodied travelers, it offers a balanced mix of culinary delights and iconic views. The $159 price tag reflects the guided tastings, scenic stops, and personalized service, making it a good value for a memorable day in Juneau.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 225 minutes, or about 3.75 hours, including brewery visits and scenic stops.

How many breweries will I visit?
You’ll visit three breweries: Devil’s Club Brewing, Alaskan Brewing Company, and Forbidden Peak Brewing.

Are meals included?
No full meals are provided, but each brewery offers a tasting flight, and one brewery provides a snack.

What scenic stops are part of the tour?
You’ll stop at Brotherhood Park for a view of Mendenhall Glacier and at the Waterfront Whale Statue for photos.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll travel in a small, comfortable van suitable for groups up to 14 guests.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there an age limit for participants?
Participants must be at least 10 years old. Those 21 and over can enjoy alcohol, with valid ID required.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility restrictions.

In summary, this Juneau craft beer tour offers a delightful blend of local brews, breathtaking scenery, and personalized insight. It’s a fantastic way for travelers to experience Alaska’s vibrant beer culture while soaking in some of the most iconic sights Juneau has to offer. Whether you’re a beer lover, a scenery enthusiast, or a curious traveler, this tour is designed to leave you with memorable tastes and views—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby