Juneau Ghost Walk: Explore Alaska’s Haunted Capital

If you’re looking for an evening that mixes local history with spine-tingling stories, the Juneau Ghost Walk offers a compelling way to experience Alaska’s capital city from a different angle. For just $34.99, you get a guided 2-hour walk through some of Juneau’s most haunted spots, blending folklore, history, and ghostly tales into an entertaining package. Whether you’re a fan of paranormal stories, local legends, or just want a fun night out, this tour promises a memorable experience.

What really stands out are the authentic stories from locals and the chance to visit some of Juneau’s most iconic spots with a haunted twist. Plus, the walkable, wheelchair-accessible route makes it inclusive. On the flip side, the “haunted” feel can vary—some might find it spooky enough, while others see it as more entertaining than frightening. This tour is ideal for adventurous families, history buffs, and curious travelers who enjoy a little mystery and folklore to spice up their Alaska visit.

Key Points

• Authentic local legends and paranormal tales make this tour engaging.
• It visits famous historic sites like the Alaskan Hotel and Red Dog Saloon.
• The 2-hour guided walk is well-paced, with plenty of interesting stops.
• Suitable for ages 13 and up; wheelchair-friendly route.
• The price point offers good value for a mix of storytelling and sightseeing.
• The tour is operated by Alaska Ghost Walks, known for their focus on haunted history.

An In-Depth Look at the Juneau Ghost Walk Experience

What to Expect from the Tour

This guided ghost walk offers a fascinating peek into Juneau’s haunted past, blending local folklore with historical insights. It typically begins at the Juneau Public Library at 7:00 pm, with a route designed to take approximately two hours. As you stroll through the city, your guide shares stories that are both spooky and rooted in fact—think ghostly apparitions, mysterious maritime legends, and tales of historic figures.

You’ll visit numerous sites, each with its own ghostly reputation or eerie story. The Red Dog Saloon, for instance, is not just a historic landmark with artifacts but also a place where visitors believe Professor Phineas Poon’s spirit still lingers. At the Alaskan Hotel, guests have reported seeing apparitions, especially of Alice, a woman said to wander the halls after a tragic ending.

The Stops in Detail

Juneau Public Library: Your journey begins with a story rooted in Tlingit folklore. The legend of Raven and Eagle, symbols of creation and protection, sets the tone. Locals still talk of trickster ravens mimicking voices, blurring folklore with the paranormal. It’s a short stop but an intriguing glimpse into indigenous stories that influence local ghost tales.

Red Dog Saloon: Known for its artifacts and lively past, this place is also famous for its ghostly piano player, Professor Poon. Visitors have reported hearing ghostly music and feeling unseen touches. It’s a spot that captures the wild frontier spirit of Juneau’s past with a supernatural twist.

The Lucky Lady Pub: This spot honors Mary Joyce, a pioneering musher who made a 1,000-mile trek to Fairbanks. Her spirit is said to linger here, with stories of ghostly footsteps and a fearless legacy that continues to inspire.

The Alaskan Hotel & Bar: As Juneau’s oldest hotel, built in 1913, it’s reputedly the most haunted site in town. Guests have claimed to see ghostly apparitions, especially of Alice, whose tragic story adds a layer of melancholy to the hauntings.

Tripp’s Mt. Juneau Trading Post: Overlooking the mountain, this stop introduces local lore about a shapeshifting otter-man spirit that supposedly lures travelers away. It’s a fun story that combines the supernatural with Alaska’s wilderness.

Aunt Claudia’s Doll Museum: With over 800 dolls from around the world, this collection is a little eerie in itself. Some believe the dolls carry the spirits of their previous owners, making this stop a mix of cultural curiosity and ghostly speculation.

Crystal Saloon: Visitors have reported objects moving on their own and ghostly music playing. One staff member recounted hitting an invisible wall, a perfect example of folklore coming to life.

Juneau Drug Co Inc: Housed in a historic building that served as a morgue after the Princess Sophia sinking, staff report cold spots, ghostly touches, and sightings in the basement—perfect for those who like their ghost stories a little darker.

Hector the Ghost at Annie Kllad’s: This friendly spirit of a construction worker is believed to help staff by holding doors and finding lost items—a reminder that not all ghosts are frightening.

Silverbow Inn: Once a family home and bakery, guests often report footsteps and sightings of the original baker still working behind the scenes.

State Capitol and Museum: These government buildings add a political twist to the ghost stories, with tales of spirits of former legislators still roaming the halls after hours. The museum also blends folklore, with stories about Alaskan ice worms and Bigfoot sightings, blurring reality and legend.

City Hall & Statue of Patsy Ann: As the final stops, these sites connect the supernatural to local culture. Patsy Ann, the deaf dog, is believed to still greet ships, reinforcing the idea that spirits are woven into Juneau’s everyday life.

The Experience and Atmosphere

This tour isn’t designed to terrify but to entertain and intrigue. Expect a mix of storytelling, historical context, and fun ghostly tales. The group size is capped at 20, providing an intimate atmosphere where you can ask questions and absorb the stories more easily.

The route is wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible for most visitors. Most stops are brief but memorable, and your guide’s storytelling skills help bring the stories to life. You might be surprised by how many locals still believe in these tales—adding authenticity and warmth to the experience.

The Value for Your Money

At just under $35, the price is reasonable considering the depth of stories and the number of sites you visit. You’re paying for both entertainment and a unique perspective on Juneau’s history. As some reviews note, the stories are genuine and reflect local beliefs, which adds to the charm.

While it’s not a frightening haunted house, it offers enough spooky tales to entertain those who enjoy a little mystery. Plus, since it’s held outdoors and mostly walkable, you’re also getting a chance to see parts of downtown Juneau in the evening light, adding a visual element to the stories.

Practical Considerations

The tour begins at 7:00 pm, a good time to enjoy the city’s evening atmosphere. It’s suitable for most travelers, including families with kids over 13, and accessibility is a plus. Remember, the tour is weather-dependent, so if rain or snow is forecasted, be prepared with appropriate clothing.

Since snacks and drinks aren’t included, you might want to grab a quick bite before or after. Also, the tour operates with a maximum of 20 people, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost walk is perfect for travelers who enjoy stories rooted in local culture and history. It’s particularly suited for families with older children, history buffs, and those curious about the supernatural side of Juneau. It’s a fun, relaxed way to spend an evening in Alaska’s capital, especially if you appreciate storytelling that’s as much about local identity as it is about ghosts.

If you’re seeking a lighthearted, atmospheric experience rather than a scary fright fest, this tour hits the right note. Keep in mind, it’s more about entertainment and cultural insight than intense paranormal activity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s recommended for ages 13 and up, as some stories may be intense or frightening for younger children.

How long does the tour last?
The guided ghost walk lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you a leisurely look at several sites.

Is the route accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the route is wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible for most visitors.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided haunted history tour. Snacks, drinks, or additional admissions are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Juneau Public Library and ends back at the same meeting point.

When does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 pm, so plan to arrive a few minutes early.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is weather a concern?
Yes, since the tour is outdoors, poor weather could lead to cancellation or rescheduling, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

Final Thoughts

The Juneau Ghost Walk offers a unique way to experience Alaska’s capital city, blending local legends, historic sites, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to learn about the city’s past from a different perspective, while enjoying stories that are rooted in local belief and culture.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, engaging, and slightly spooky evening, this tour delivers good value and memorable tales. It’s especially suited for those interested in the stories that shape a place as much as its physical sites. Just bring your curiosity—and maybe a flashlight—because Juneau’s haunted secrets are waiting to be uncovered.