Juneau: Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops

If you’re visiting Juneau and want to combine your love of local brews with the breathtaking scenery of Alaska, this Craft Beer and Brewery Tour offers a practical and engaging way to experience both. It’s a guided, small-group adventure that promises not just tastings but also insight into Juneau’s brewing roots and some spectacular natural sights.

We’re intrigued by how this tour balances craft beer tasting with scenic sightseeing, especially since it includes visits to three distinct breweries. Plus, the stops at the Mendenhall Glacier and the Waterfront Whale Statue add an extra layer of visual delight. One thing to keep in mind is the 225-minute duration—it’s a fairly full morning or afternoon outing, so packing comfortable shoes and warm layers is a smart move.

While the price of $159 is reasonable considering the three brewery tastings, scenic stops, and transportation, it’s worth noting that this tour may be less suitable for travelers with mobility concerns or those on a tight schedule. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy authentic local experiences, appreciate good beer, and want a taste of Juneau’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Three brewery visits offer diverse craft beer experiences.
• Scenic stops include Mendenhall Glacier views and the Waterfront Whale Statue.
• The tour offers insights into Alaska’s brewing history and local flavors.
• Small-group size (max 14 guests) helps create a more personal experience.
• Includes a local snack at one of the breweries.
• The tour is generally well-reviewed for the scenic views and friendly guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Juneau Craft Beer and Scenic Tour

This tour is designed to showcase Juneau’s vibrant craft beer scene while offering travelers a glimpse of the city’s stunning landscapes. It’s perfect for visitors who want more than just sightseeing—they want a taste of local flavor, both in their drinks and their surroundings.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The journey begins at Peratrovich Plaza, a convenient central meeting point next to the Juneau Library and a large mural of Elizabeth Peratrovich, a civil rights hero. From there, a small, comfortable van whisks you off into the city’s scenic surroundings. The tour lasts about 3 hours and 45 minutes, offering a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in views.

The first stop is Devil’s Club Brewing in historic downtown Juneau. This brewery often receives praise for its welcoming atmosphere and creative beers. You’ll enjoy a guided flight of their best brews, accompanied by a local snack—a nice touch that adds local flavor and makes the tasting more memorable.

Next, the tour moves to Alaskan Brewing Company, Alaska’s first craft brewery. Here, the focus is on the history and evolution of brewing in Alaska. You might find their story as compelling as their beers, and the chance to sample a flight at this iconic brewery enriches your understanding of Alaska’s craft beer heritage.

Finally, the journey concludes at Forbidden Peak Brewing in Auke Bay. This scenic setting is a favorite for its beautiful views and relaxed vibe. Again, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting flight, rounding out the beer adventure.

Scenic Stops for the Eyes and Cameras

The tour doesn’t stop with just beer. Two scenic highlights stand out:

• From Brotherhood Park in the Mendenhall Valley, you’ll get an impressive view of the Mendenhall Glacier—not from the crowded Visitor Center, but from a vantage point that offers a more authentic, less touristy perspective. The glacier’s vast ice flow and surrounding rugged peaks are truly photo-worthy.

• At the Waterfront Whale Statue, you’ll see Juneau’s whimsical tribute to whales, which also makes for a fun photo op. It’s a reminder of the city’s deep connection to marine life.

In reviews, travelers often mention how “stunning” and “breathtaking” the glacier views are, making these stops well worth the brief detours from the city’s core.

What Makes This Tour Special

Beyond the scenic views and craft beer tastings, what makes this tour attractive is the small-group setting. With a maximum of 14 guests, the guide can provide personalized attention, answer questions about Alaska’s beer scene, and make everyone feel comfortable.

The educational component—learning about brewing in Alaska, tasting local flavors, and hearing the stories behind each brewery—adds depth to what might otherwise be just a drinking tour. We loved the way the tour integrates local culture and scenery, creating a well-rounded experience.

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The Experience of the Breweries

Each brewery has its unique character. Devil’s Club offers a cozy downtown vibe with innovative brews. Alaska Brewing combines history with a modern craft approach, showcasing what makes Alaskan beer special. Forbidden Peak, with its Auke Bay location, provides a scenic backdrop and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a scenic drive.

Reviewers frequently note how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, often sharing interesting tidbits about the local brewing scene, Juneau’s history, and the natural environment. This adds value beyond just tasting beers.

The Practical Side: Price and Value

At $159 per person, the tour includes guided tastings at three breweries, each with a flight, plus local snacks, scenic stops, and transportation. For craft beer enthusiasts, this represents good value considering the variety of beers sampled and the scenic diversity.

The small-group format enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and flexibility. The tour’s duration of nearly four hours strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour is generally accessible and well-reviewed, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, as it involves some walking and standing. Also, participants must be at least 21 years old to taste alcohol, with minors allowed if accompanied by guardians.

Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing—Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable—and be prepared for some outdoor viewing. It’s advisable to bring your camera, as the scenery—particularly the glacier views—is truly memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beer lovers eager to explore local flavors and enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty. It also suits travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group tours that combine education, scenic vistas, and a laid-back atmosphere. If you’re a fan of craft beer, outdoor scenery, and want a relaxed yet informative introduction to Juneau, this tour fits the bill.

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues or who prefer less structured or shorter activities. Also, if you’re seeking a more adventurous outdoor experience like kayaking or hiking, this tour might not satisfy that craving. But for a balanced mix of local culture, scenic views, and great beer, it offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

For travelers looking to get a taste of Juneau’s craft beer scene alongside some of Alaska’s most iconic scenery, this guided brewery tour hits the mark. The combination of three distinct breweries, stunning glacier views, and local storytelling makes it a well-rounded experience. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the scenic stops are genuinely impressive.

While it’s not perfect for everyone, particularly those with mobility concerns, it offers excellent value for those who enjoy relaxed, authentic experiences that combine culinary discovery with nature. If you want to savor local brews and snap photos of glaciers and whales in a single trip, this tour is a smart choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 10 and above can participate, but those under 21 cannot drink alcohol. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and proper ID may be required.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 225 minutes, or about 3 hours and 45 minutes, including scenic stops and tastings.

Where does the tour meet?
It starts at Peratrovich Plaza, a central location in Juneau near the library and Elizabeth Peratrovich mural. Arrive a few minutes early for check-in.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera. Water is provided, but bringing your own is also encouraged.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring on the tour?
Yes, weapons, large luggage, baby strollers, and non-folding wheelchairs are not permitted. Smoking in the vehicle is also prohibited.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided in a comfortable van, with scenic stops en route that enhance the overall experience.

In all, this Juneau brewery tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to combine Alaska’s scenic grandeur with a taste of local craft beer—and a bit of fun along the way.

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