Juneau is a fantastic place for drinking tours, thanks to its unique mix of local breweries, historic saloons, and breathtaking scenery. Unlike many other cities, Juneau offers opportunities to taste Alaska’s craft beer scene while enjoying stunning vistas like the Mendenhall Glacier or exploring lively downtown pubs.
We especially love the Craft Brews & Epic Views tour, which combines local brews with spectacular scenery—something you won’t get on a typical pub crawl.
Whether you’re after a relaxed tasting session or a guided sightseeing experience, Juneau has options that suit different tastes and schedules.
In this guide, you’ll find two of the best drinking tours in Juneau, each offering a distinct way to experience the local drink scene. From a guided brewery tour with stunning views to a lively downtown pub crawl, there’s something here to match your style.
1. Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau’s Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!
For around $159 per person, the Craft Brews & Epic Views tour provides a comprehensive look at Juneau’s craft beer scene combined with some of the most iconic sights, like the Brotherhood Bridge and Mendenhall Glacier.
The tour lasts about 3 hours 45 minutes and includes visits to Devil’s Club Brewing, a creative downtown brewery, and Alaskan Brewing Co., Alaska’s original craft brewery since 1986. The highlight for many is the stop at the Brotherhood Bridge, where panoramic views of the glacier, river, and towers make the experience memorable.
This tour is perfect for those who want to learn about Juneau’s brewing history while enjoying stunning scenery. The guide is knowledgeable, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience. The visit to Forbidden Peak Brewing in Auke Bay adds a local touch and introduces you to some lesser-known gems.
The reviews highlight Derrick, the guide, for sharing inside tips and making the tour engaging. Many find this a great way to combine sightseeing with tasting local beers, making it a well-rounded activity.
Bottom line: This is an excellent choice if you’re interested in Alaskan craft beers and want to see some breathtaking sights while doing so. It’s a bit pricier but offers a rich, guided experience with a focus on authentic local brews.
2. Walking Pub Crawl in Downtown Juneau
For a more casual, social experience, the Walking Pub Crawl costs about $115 per person and lasts roughly 2 hours. This tour is designed for those who want to explore Juneau’s famous bar scene with a lively guide pointing out the city’s historic and haunted pubs.
Starting at 114 S Franklin St and ending at the Red Dog Saloon, the crawl includes visits to classic and quirky bars, a historic hotel, and even a new distillery.
Along the way, you’ll sample craft beers, local spirits, and even the iconic Juneau shot, paired with a tasty local snack.
What makes this tour stand out is its entertaining storytelling, which covers local lore, gold rush characters, and some ghostly tales. The reviews mention Kris, the guide, for her insider knowledge and fun stories, making it a perfect option for travelers who want a lively, social evening out.
This tour is best suited for those on a tight schedule or who prefer a more relaxed pace with a focus on downtown nightlife.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in local history, colorful stories, and a relaxed drink-or-two in a social setting. It’s less about brewery education and more about fun, stories, and discovering Juneau’s lively pub scene.
How to Choose Your Juneau Drinking Experience
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and schedule. If you love craft beer and want to combine it with sightseeing, the Craft Brews & Epic Views tour offers a well-rounded day out, especially if you’re a fan of scenic views or want a guided experience.
It’s also a good pick if you appreciate learning about local breweries and seeing iconic sights like the Brotherhood Bridge and Mendenhall Glacier.
On the other hand, if your goal is to learn about Juneau’s nightlife and enjoy lively stories in a relaxed environment, the Walking Pub Crawl provides an entertaining evening with the city’s best historic bars and taverns. It’s a more informal way to enjoy local spirits and get to know Juneau’s colorful past.
Consider your budget and time constraints as well. The brewery tour offers a more extensive experience with higher price and longer duration, while the pub crawl is shorter and less expensive. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak cruise season, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Juneau offers a variety of drinking tours tailored to different interests. For a scenic, educational experience, the Craft Brews & Epic Views tour is hard to beat, especially with its combination of top local breweries and stunning scenery. If you prefer a social, lively night exploring historic bars, the Walking Pub Crawl is a fun and relaxed way to discover the city’s nightlife and stories.
Both tours highlight Juneau’s vibrant local drink scene, whether you’re after craft beers or historic taverns. No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Cheers to exploring Juneau, one sip at a time!