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

Experience Juneau’s Craft Beer and Scenic Highlights in One Tour

If you’re heading to Juneau and looking for an activity that combines local flavor with breathtaking scenery, the “Craft Brews & Epic Views” tour might just hit the spot. This guided experience offers a taste of Juneau’s vibrant craft beer scene alongside some of its most iconic viewpoints, all in a relaxed 3 hours and 45 minutes. Designed for those wanting a mix of local culture, stunning vistas, and a bit of fun, it’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a good brew and a good view.

One thing we really love about this tour is how it’s not just about drinking beer — it’s about exploring the city’s unique neighborhoods, meeting local brewers, and seeing sights most visitors miss. Plus, the tour’s emphasis on authentic, craft-quality brews makes it stand out. A possible consideration? The tour’s pace might feel a bit rushed for those who want to linger longer at each stop or enjoy a more leisurely experience. Still, if you’re after a lively, fun way to get to know Juneau through its drinks and scenery, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits anyone curious about Juneau’s local beer culture, nature lovers eager for iconic views, and those who appreciate guided, small-group outings. It’s especially appealing for cruise travelers or visitors on a quick trip who want a compact yet comprehensive taste of the city’s best.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visit some of Juneau’s most popular breweries, including the original Alaskan Brewing Company.
• Spectacular Views: Get stunning perspectives of Mendenhall Glacier, the River, and Auke Bay from Brotherhood Bridge and Forbidden Peak Brewery.
• Expert Guides: The guides, like Derrick, bring local insights and fun stories that enhance the experience.
• Inclusive for Youth: Children over 10 can join but won’t sample beverages, making it family-friendly.
• Value for Money: For $159, you get five signature tasting flights, snacks, and guided sightseeing.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate, personalized atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Juneau Brew & View Experience

This tour offers a blend of craft beer tasting and sightseeing that captures the essence of Juneau. Starting at Elizabeth Peratrovich Plaza, the tour’s meeting point is in the heart of downtown, making it easy to access via public transportation or your cruise ship.

Exploring the Breweries

Devil’s Club Brewing Company is the first stop, and it sets the tone for the tour. Known for its creativity and fresh approaches, Devil’s Club provides a friendly environment where you can sample some of Juneau’s newest brews. Reviewers appreciate the welcoming space, describing it as a gem of downtown. It’s a compact brewery, but the tasting flights here are a fantastic way to kick off your journey into Alaska’s craft beer scene.

Next up is Alaskan Brewing Company, which is a true icon in the state. Established in 1986, it’s the original craft brewery in Juneau, and its popularity is well-earned. The taproom is spacious and warm, perfect for relaxing while trying their award-winning beers. Visitors love the blend of tradition and innovation here; one reviewer noted that Derrick, their knowledgeable guide, shared insider stories that made the tasting even more enjoyable. The snacks, including chips and kelp salsa from Barnacle Foods, add a regional touch and help cleanse the palate.

Scenic Highlights

Beyond beer, the tour shifts gears with visits to some of Juneau’s most photogenic spots. The Brotherhood Bridge offers epic views of the Mendenhall Glacier, the river, and the towering peaks. It’s a brief stop, but the scenery makes it worth every second. As one reviewer said, the view was “breathtaking,” and the quick 10-minute stop perfectly balances sightseeing with beverage tasting.

The final brewery is Forbidden Peak Brewing in Auke Bay, located above the harbor. This brewery isn’t as commonly visited by travelers, which makes it a special find. The setting offers beautiful vistas of the harbor and mountains, and locals favor it for its relaxed vibe and great beers. The 45-minute stop here allows guests to soak in the last brewery experience and take in the scenery.

Ending at Overstreet Park

The tour finishes at Juneau’s iconic waterfront whale statue in Overstreet Park. This sculpture, installed in 2018, has quickly become a local favorite and a must-visit photo spot. The 10-minute stop provides a relaxed ending, with the chance to reflect on your day and snap some memorable photos.

The Experience: What to Expect

Guided, Small-Group Format: With a maximum of 14 travelers, this tour feels intimate. Derrick — the guide praised for his local knowledge — offers insights into Juneau’s history, the brewing scene, and fun stories along the way. His enthusiasm makes the experience engaging and informative without feeling rushed.

Beverages and Snacks: Each brewery provides a signature tasting flight, showcasing the best of their offerings. The inclusion of regional snacks like kelp salsa adds a local flavor to your tasting experience. This thoughtful touch elevates the tour beyond just beer-drinking.

Timing and Logistics: The tour lasts around 3 hours and 45 minutes, with 45-minute brewery stops, quick scenic overlooks, and 10-minute photo stops. It begins in downtown Juneau, making it accessible and convenient. The tour’s pace is brisk but manageable, allowing you to enjoy all the stops without feeling rushed.

Price and Value: At $159 per person, the tour offers a lot — five brewery tastings, regional snacks, scenic viewpoints, and a knowledgeable guide. For craft beer lovers and scenery seekers, that’s a reasonable price considering the quality and personalized experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Lucie_M summed up her experience as “Beers with a local,” emphasizing Derrick’s inside knowledge about Juneau. She appreciated the chance to explore away from the busy cruise ship areas and enjoy local beers with an expert guide. Her comment about “Mr. Steinman” (the guide, likely Derrick) being popular hints at the friendly, personable approach the tour offers.

Another reviewer highlighted the diversity of the scenery and craft beers, noting that the guide made the experience educational and fun. The combination of delicious beers, interesting stories, and stunning views creates a well-rounded outing.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Arrive early at Elizabeth Peratrovich Plaza to ensure smooth check-in.
• Bring your ID and proof of guardianship if traveling with youth over 10, as verification may be required.
• Dress in layers; weather in Juneau can change quickly, especially when visiting outdoor viewpoints.
• Book in advance — the tour is popular, often booked 104 days ahead.
• Enjoy the scenic stops even if you’re not a beer enthusiast; the views are worth it.
• Tip your guide if you enjoyed the experience — they’re often locals with a wealth of stories and tips.

The Sum Up

The “Craft Brews & Epic Views” tour offers a fantastic look into Juneau’s local beer scene paired with some of the most photographed natural vistas in the area. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a lively, guided experience that balances authentic taste with stunning scenery. The small-group setting, expert guides, and thoughtful touches like regional snacks make it a worthwhile activity, especially for those short on time but eager to soak in Juneau’s character.

Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun way to explore off the beaten path, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Juneau in a friendly, approachable package.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 10 can participate when accompanied by a parent or guardian. They won’t sample beverages but can enjoy the scenery and learn about the breweries.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive a signature tasting flight at each brewery, regional snacks such as chips and kelp salsa at Alaskan Brewing, and guided sightseeing at scenic spots.

How long does the tour last?
Approximate duration is 3 hours and 45 minutes, including brewery visits, scenic stops, and walking time.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Elizabeth Peratrovich Plaza in downtown Juneau and ends back at the same location.

What kind of transportation is used?
The tour is primarily walking between stops with scenic viewpoints accessible on foot; transportation details are not specified, but it’s designed as a small-group walk-and-see experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving flexibility if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

This guided brewery and scenic tour balances the best of Juneau — local craft beers, stunning vistas, and engaging storytelling. It’s a fantastic way to experience more of what makes this Alaskan city special, all in a friendly, relaxed setting.