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

Should you visit Minneapolis or Juneau?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a innovative, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Juneau

Juneau is a breathtaking, historic, and scenic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Minneapolis and Juneau: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Minneapolis or Juneau?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Minneapolis than Juneau, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Minneapolis is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Juneau is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Juneau is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. Minneapolis is well known for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. Also, Minneapolis is famous for Mall of America.

How is Minneapolis different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Minneapolis
Juneau

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Minneapolis and Juneau.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Minneapolis can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

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 Minneapolis or Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Minneapolis
Juneau

Juneau is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Juneau has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Minneapolis area. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Minneapolis or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Minneapolis
Juneau

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

Minneapolis offers plenty to do in the evening. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

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 Minneapolis or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Minneapolis
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

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.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or Juneau?

Minneapolis
Juneau

Minneapolis is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Minneapolis make it a world-class shopping destination. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Minneapolis or Juneau Better for Families?

Minneapolis
Juneau

Minneapolis and Juneau are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Minneapolis is very family-friendly. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

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.

Is Minneapolis or Juneau Better for Couples?

Minneapolis
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.


Is Minneapolis or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Minneapolis
Juneau

Juneau is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Minneapolis or Juneau Better for Students?

Minneapolis
Juneau

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

Minneapolis is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Juneau is not popular with students.

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

Minneapolis
Juneau

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

Minneapolis has a few public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

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 Minneapolis or Juneau a more walkable city?

Minneapolis
Juneau

Juneau is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Minneapolis and Juneau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Minneapolis than in Juneau. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Minneapolis, and 2-3 days is enough time in Juneau.

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


  • How many days in Minneapolis or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Minneapolis 2-4 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Minneapolis or Juneau?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the breathtaking city of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Minneapolis or Juneau?

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Juneau. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Minneapolis or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Minneapolis. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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.

The historic city of Juneau offers museums and food. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Minneapolis or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dynamic destination of Minneapolis. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Juneau. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Minneapolis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Minneapolis is $206, 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 Minneapolis and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Minneapolis $110
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Minneapolis $220
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Minneapolis and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis


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: Minneapolis Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Minneapolis $43
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

Also for Minneapolis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $137

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Minneapolis or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis $40
    Juneau $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Minneapolis Food Tour - Walking: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Minneapolis $27
    Juneau $17

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

For Minneapolis, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi: A Self-Guided Riverside Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi Self Guided Minneapolis Riverside Tour: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Saint Paul by Operation City Quest: $10
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the Riverfront: $11
  • Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field: $14
  • St. Paul Historic Cave Tour: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Minneapolis with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Lost Souls Tour: $20

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:

  • 3 Hours Fishing Experience Class in Juneau: $225
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska: $189
  • Alpine Zipline Adventure in Juneau, AK: $245
  • Five-Star Juneau Pedicab Private Tour: $200
  • From Fly-In Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft Tour: $850
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $132
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Juneau Whale Watching Adventure: $189
  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Alpine Zipline Adventure: $245

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Minneapolis $24
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

Also in Minneapolis, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • History and 4-Bar Crawl Guided Walking Tour: $69
  • All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour: $85
  • 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $100


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Minneapolis and Juneau, we can see that Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis Expensive? and Is Juneau Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or Juneau?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis or Juneau?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Minneapolis or Juneau in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Minneapolis as well as Juneau. Many visitors come to Minneapolis in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Minneapolis is much warmer than Juneau in the summer. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 76°F (25°C) in July, and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Minneapolis this time of the year. In the summer, Minneapolis often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Minneapolis gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Minneapolis usually gets less rain in July than Juneau. Minneapolis gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Minneapolis or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Minneapolis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Minneapolis for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene 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 the autumn, Minneapolis is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Minneapolis in October average around 52°F (11°C), and Juneau averages at about 42°F (6°C).

Minneapolis usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during autumn. Minneapolis gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In October, Minneapolis usually receives less rain than Juneau. Minneapolis gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Minneapolis or Juneau in the Winter?

Both Juneau and Minneapolis during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Minneapolis 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. The weather in Minneapolis can be very cold. In January, Minneapolis is generally much colder than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 15°F (-10°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Minneapolis often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Minneapolis gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Minneapolis usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Minneapolis gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Minneapolis or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Minneapolis and Juneau. The activities around the city are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. Minneapolis is much warmer than Juneau in the spring. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 49°F (10°C) in April, and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In Minneapolis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Minneapolis usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during spring. Minneapolis gets 244 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Minneapolis usually receives less rain than Juneau. Minneapolis gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Minneapolis

Minneapolis Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)