Beauty and the Beer Private Sightseeing and Brewery in Juneau

If you’re looking for a way to blend some of Juneau’s best sights with its local craft beer scene, the Beauty and the Beer Private Sightseeing and Brewery Tour might just be your perfect match. Offered by Juneau Local Tours, this small-group experience promises a relaxed, personalized way to enjoy the city’s natural beauty and its burgeoning brewing culture — all without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we love about this tour is its flexible itinerary—it’s carefully curated to give you a taste of Juneau’s stunning landscapes and local flavor. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means your group can enjoy a more intimate experience, with a guide who can tailor recommendations and share local insights. On the flip side, travelers should keep in mind that alcoholic drinks are not included in the price—so if you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ll want to budget accordingly.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy scenic views, and want a flexible, private itinerary. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with family or friends who prefer a more personalized approach to sightseeing.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your group for a more intimate visit.
• Balanced mix of natural scenery and local breweries provides a well-rounded taste of Juneau.
• Includes sightseeing stops like Mendenhall Glacier and historic landmarks for added cultural value.
• Food options available from wood-fired pizza to local eateries, though drinks are extra.
• Duration of about 3 hours offers a compact yet comprehensive taste of Juneau.
• Great for those seeking flexibility and local insights without the rush of larger tours.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Beauty and the Beer Tour combines the best of what Juneau has to offer—nature, history, and craft beer—in a way that’s both fun and practical. With a focus on local breweries such as Forbidden Peak Brewing and Alaskan Brewing Co., you’ll get to sample some of the region’s best brews, while also soaking in the views of Statter Harbor and the iconic Mendenhall Glacier.

The tour’s three-hour length is just right for travelers who want a taste of everything without feeling like they’re on a long day trip. It’s also booked, on average, just five days in advance, indicating good availability for last-minute planners or those who prefer spontaneity.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Forbidden Peak Brewery

Your journey begins with a visit to Forbidden Peak Brewery, where you’ll have the chance to sample beers while enjoying spectacular views of Statter Harbor. This location offers a relaxed atmosphere, so you can focus on tasting and taking in the scenery. The brewery’s outdoor vantage point provides perfect photo ops, especially if you’re keen on capturing Juneau’s rugged coastal beauty. The visit here lasts about 30 minutes, making it an ideal warm-up for the rest of the tour.

Interestingly, admission is free, which means you can sip your beer and enjoy the vistas without an extra fee. Food and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, a good option if you need a snack or water to stay refreshed.

Alaskan Brewing Co.

Next, you’ll head to the famous Alaskan Brewing Co., a staple in Juneau’s craft beer scene. This stop is particularly appealing for beer lovers, as you’ll get to sample a variety of beers from a well-respected local brewery. The brewery’s reputation for quality and unique flavors makes this a highlight, especially if you’re interested in regional craft brewing.

Accompanying the tasting, you can buy wood-fired pizza from Forno Rosso and other snacks, adding a satisfying food element to your beer experience. This stop also runs for about 30 minutes, giving ample time to relax and chat about Juneau’s brewing culture.

Mendenhall Glacier & Local Landmarks

No visit to Juneau is complete without seeing the Mendenhall Glacier, and this tour offers a 15-minute stop at Kaxdigoowu Heen Dei for prime photo opportunities. From a few miles away, you’ll learn about the annual glacial flooding, which is a fascinating natural process impacting the area. The glacier’s majestic presence is a reminder of the ever-changing landscape in Alaska, and a photo here is a must.

Another quick stop at Overstreet Park gives a chance to see Takhu, the humpback whale statue, commemorating fifty years of Alaskan statehood. It’s a fun, symbolic spot that offers a bit of local pride and artistic flair.

Historical and Cultural Landmarks

A brief drive along Franklin Street features views of the Capitol building and the Governor’s Mansion, along with other historic structures. While not a formal stop, this part of the tour adds context and a sense of the city’s civic character.

Salmon Hatchery Visit

The tour wraps up with a visit to Dipac’s Macaulay Salmon Hatchery, where you learn about Juneau’s vital salmon population. Inside, tide pools and aquariums introduce you to local marine wildlife, while outside, visitors can observe the salmon ladder and other oceanic features. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and is free, offering a charming, educational conclusion to your journey.

Practical Considerations and What to Expect

The $135 per person price includes bottled water and snacks, adding value by keeping you hydrated and satisfied without extra charge. However, alcoholic beverages are not included—so if you’re looking to indulge in a variety of local beers, you’ll want to budget for that separately. Similarly, meals are not included, but food options are available for purchase at breweries.

Pickup is offered, which simplifies logistics, especially if your cruise ship has a tight schedule. The tour is guaranteed to return you to your ship before departure, which is reassuring for those on tight timelines.

The fact that it’s a private experience means your group will have exclusive access, and the guide can focus on your interests, making it a more personalized adventure. This also means that group discounts might be available, providing better value for larger parties.

What Travelers Are Saying

While the tour currently has no ratings, the detailed itinerary and thoughtful stops suggest a well-rounded experience. The focus on natural beauty, local culture, and craft beer offers a combination that appeals to many types of travelers, from nature lovers to foodies.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits those seeking a relaxed, personalized way to see Juneau without the rush of large bus tours. It’s great for families, friends, or couples who want flexibility and insider knowledge. If you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious about local breweries, this tour provides a good sampling without the hassle of planning each stop on your own.

It’s also ideal for visitors who want to combine scenic vistas with cultural and culinary highlights—from glacier views to local beer and salmon hatcheries—within a manageable timeframe.

The Beauty and the Beer Private Sightseeing and Brewery Tour offers a well-balanced taste of Juneau’s natural beauty and local flavors. It delivers a personalized, flexible experience that’s perfect for those who prefer a curated, intimate outing over big group tours. With stops that highlight the city’s stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and craft beer scene, it’s a great way to make the most of your limited time in port.

While the tour doesn’t include drinks or meals, the combination of sightseeing, local storytelling, and beer tasting at renowned breweries provides good value. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a relaxed pace and insider insights, ensuring a memorable visit without the stresses of logistics.

If you’re visiting Juneau and want a customized, local experience that blends scenery, history, and craft beer, this tour could be just the ticket. Just remember to book a few days in advance to secure your spot — and bring your camera and appetite for adventure.

Is this tour private? Yes, it is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long does the tour last? The tour is approximately 3 hours, making it a compact but comprehensive way to explore Juneau.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but food options are available for purchase at breweries.

Are alcoholic drinks included in the price? No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You can buy beers at the breweries.

Is pickup available? Yes, pickup is offered, which makes it easier to coordinate with your cruise schedule or accommodations.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring? A camera, some cash or cards for food and drinks, and a sense of adventure.

Is there a minimum group size? The tour requires a minimum of three travelers or a smaller group paying for three, which helps keep it private and intimate.