A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Durham vs. Juneau for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Durham or Juneau?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Durham and Juneau can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a sports oriented, diverse, and student-filled city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Durham travel costs.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Juneau travel costs.

Durham and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Durham or Juneau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Durham and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Durham is known for its nightlife. Juneau is more touristy than Durham and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier. Durham is popular for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Durham or Juneau.

Many visitors head to Durham specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Juneau can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Durham or Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Juneau is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Juneau is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Durham. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

Is Durham or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Durham is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

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 Durham or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Juneau specifically for its hiking. 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.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Juneau?

Juneau is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Juneau. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Durham. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Is Durham or Juneau More Beautiful?

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Durham or Juneau Better for Families?

Juneau is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Juneau is known to be 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.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Juneau Better for Couples?

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Juneau has plenty to offer. 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.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Durham or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Juneau is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Juneau is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Durham or Juneau Better for Students?

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

Durham is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Juneau is not popular with students.

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

Both Durham and Juneau offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

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 Durham or Juneau a more walkable city?

Juneau is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Durham is not a good city for its walkability.

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

Durham is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Durham?

How long in Durham or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Durham and Juneau. In our opinion, Juneau has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Juneau than Durham. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 2-3 days is enough time in Juneau.

Families should spend more time in Juneau than Durham. 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 Durham. 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 Juneau than Durham 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 Juneau.

One day in Durham or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Durham. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Durham or Juneau?

Durham 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 Durham or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Durham. 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 Durham or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the sports oriented destination of Durham. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When comparing the travel costs between Durham 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 Durham Expensive? and Is Juneau Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Durham or Juneau?

Durham has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Durham 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 Durham 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 Durham or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Durham for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Durham is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 79°F (26°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Durham gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. It's quite rainy in Durham. In July, Durham usually receives more rain than Juneau. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Durham or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Durham during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Durham because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

Durham is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 61°F (16°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Durham. In the autumn, Durham often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Durham gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Durham usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Durham or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Durham and Juneau. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Durham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. It's quite cold in Durham in the winter. In the winter, Durham is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Durham in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

Durham usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Durham usually receives less rain than Juneau. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Durham or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Durham as well as Juneau. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the spring for the natural beauty.

Juneau can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Durham is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 60°F (16°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Durham this time of the year. In the spring, Durham often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Juneau and Durham