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

Should you visit Juneau or Seattle?

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

Should I visit Juneau or Seattle? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Juneau

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

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Juneau and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Juneau or Seattle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seattle. Although Juneau and Seattle are both popular with visitors, Seattle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Juneau is known for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Juneau is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Juneau different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Juneau and Seattle.

Juneau offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Juneau is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Juneau is not a theatre destination.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Juneau and Seattle can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Juneau. 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.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Juneau or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Juneau is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle is very popular with diverse venues. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Juneau is not a live music destination.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a popular place for the beache. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Juneau is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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 explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Juneau or Seattle?

Juneau is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Families?

Juneau is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Couples?

Juneau is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Juneau is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Juneau or Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Juneau is not popular with students.

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

Seattle is a popular place for its public transit. However, Juneau is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Juneau or Seattle a more walkable city?

Juneau and Seattle both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Juneau?

How long in Juneau or Seattle?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau than Seattle 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 Juneau or Seattle?

In Juneau, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Seattle is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Juneau or Seattle?

In Juneau, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Juneau has to offer.

Seattle 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.

Five days in Juneau or Seattle?

Juneau is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Juneau. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Juneau. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the progressive big city of Seattle. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Juneau and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. And not only is Juneau much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Juneau would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Juneau and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle than you might in Juneau.

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

Which is Bigger, Juneau or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Juneau and Seattle, 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 Juneau or Seattle?

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 Juneau or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Juneau are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Juneau is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Juneau in July average around 56°F (13°C), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. Juneau usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Juneau gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. In July, Juneau usually receives more rain than Seattle. Juneau gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Juneau or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Juneau during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Juneau in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seattle 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.

In October, Juneau is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Juneau average around 42°F (6°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Juneau often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Juneau gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. Juneau usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Juneau gets 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Juneau or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Juneau and Seattle. Most visitors come to Juneau for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Juneau can be very cold during winter. Juneau is much colder than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Juneau averages around 24°F (-4°C) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Juneau usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Juneau gets 87 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Juneau usually receives less rain than Seattle. Juneau gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Juneau or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Juneau as well as Seattle. The spring months attract visitors to Juneau because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

The weather in Juneau can be very cold. In the spring, Juneau is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Juneau in April average around 40°F (4°C), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In the spring, Juneau often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Juneau gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Juneau usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Seattle. Juneau gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Juneau