A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. Juneau for Food, Nightlife, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Austin or Juneau?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Juneau, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Austin and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Austin or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and Juneau are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Juneau attracts visitors for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Juneau is more touristy than Austin and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital.

How is Austin different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Juneau and Austin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Juneau?

Austin
Juneau

Both Austin and Juneau have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Austin can be an interesting and educational experience. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Juneau. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.


Is the Food Better in Austin or Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin
Juneau

Austin is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Juneau has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Austin or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Austin
Juneau

Austin is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Austin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Austin or Juneau Better for Music?

Austin
Juneau

Austin is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Juneau is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Juneau is not a live music destination.


Is Austin or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Austin
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

Known for its hiking, Juneau draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Juneau?

Austin
Juneau

Juneau is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Juneau is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Austin or Juneau Better for Families?

Austin
Juneau

Juneau is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Juneau is a very family-friendly place to visit. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.


Is Austin or Juneau Better for Couples?

Austin
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Juneau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Austin or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin
Juneau

Austin and Juneau are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Many backpackers visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Is Austin or Juneau Better for Students?

Austin
Juneau

Austin is a well-known place for students. However, Juneau is not popular with students.

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Juneau is not popular with students.


Is Austin or Juneau Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Austin
Juneau

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Juneau.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Is Austin or Juneau a more walkable city?

Austin
Juneau

Juneau is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Austin Worth Visiting? and Is Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Austin?

How long in Austin or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Austin and Juneau. In our opinion, Juneau has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Juneau than Austin. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Juneau than Austin. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Juneau, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Juneau than Austin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Juneau that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Juneau if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Austin.


  • How many days in Austin or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Austin 2-3 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Austin or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Austin. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Austin or Juneau?

Austin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Austin. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Juneau. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the lively destination of Austin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Juneau. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Austin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Austin is $142, while the average daily cost in Juneau is $160. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Austin and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Austin $56
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Austin $112
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Austin and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Austin or Juneau? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Austin


Hotels in Juneau


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Austin Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Austin $47
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Private Transfer Between Airport and Hotels: $80
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
  • Austin International Airport (AUS) - Private Arrival transfer: $110
  • Private Airport and Hotel Transfer Services in Austin: $115
  • Austin International Airport (AUS) - Private Round trip transfer: $215

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Austin or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Austin change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Austin $35
    Juneau $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Austin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Austin.

  • East Austin Food Tour: $44
  • Devour Downtown Austin Walking Food Tour: $80
  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Austin South Congress Walking Food Tour for Small Groups: $95
  • Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Secret Food Tour: $101
  • Secret Food Tour of South Congress: $111
  • The Brunch Bus: Food Tour with a Live Band on Board the Bus!: $125
  • Private Guided Food Tour of Austin Neighborhoods: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Austin $28
    Juneau $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Austin

Here are a few typical costs in Austin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Austin Duck Tour
    $31

Tours and Activities in Austin

Here are a few actual costs in Austin for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Historical Downtown Running or Walking Tour: $4.99
  • Austin's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Audio App Walking Tour : $6.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Austin by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Austin by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Explore Austin's Past & Future: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Austin,TX: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Downtown Austin Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Austin Trails Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour: $24
  • Austin Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Juneau are as follows:

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour: $85
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Tram, Trails and Ale Tour: $105
  • Alaska Native Tour and Goldbelt Tram: $125
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $154
  • eBikes Alaska - Rainforest Adventure: $160
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Austin $28
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Austin

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:

  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Sixth Street Spree Austin Bar Crawl: $12
  • Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • McKinnie-Gene's Paranormal Pub Crawl: $35
  • Downtown Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin Rainey Street Bar Crawl | The Epic Group: $38
  • Public Pedal Pub Tour in Austin: $39
  • Austin 6th Street Bar Crawl | The Epic Group: $43
  • Rainey Street Walking Pub Crawl and Tour: $59
  • From Texas Hill Country Brewery & Distillery Shuttle: $65


When comparing the travel costs between Austin and Juneau, we can see that Juneau is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Austin Expensive? and Is Juneau Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Austin or Juneau?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Juneau, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Austin or Juneau?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Austin or Juneau in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Juneau. Many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Austin is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Austin in July average around 87°F (30°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Austin usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Austin usually receives less rain than Juneau. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Austin 87°F (30°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Austin or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Austin as well as Juneau. Most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Austin is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 73°F (23°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In the autumn, Austin often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Austin usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Austin 73°F (23°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Austin or Juneau in the Winter?

Both Juneau and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the winter. Austin is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Austin usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In January, Austin usually receives less rain than Juneau. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Austin 51°F (11°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Austin or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Austin during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Juneau for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In the spring, Austin is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Austin in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. In the spring, Austin often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Austin 71°F (22°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Austin

Austin Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 83°F (29°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 87°F (30°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)