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

Should you visit Pensacola 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 Pensacola and Juneau can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a active, entertaining, and fun-filled beach town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Juneau

Juneau is a breathtaking, historic, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Pensacola and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • 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 Pensacola or Juneau?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pensacola than Juneau, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pensacola is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Juneau is more popular for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Pensacola is more touristy than Juneau and is known for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. Also, Pensacola is famous for Gulf Islands National Seashore. Juneau is well known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880.

How is Pensacola different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pensacola
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Juneau specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pensacola. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.


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

Pensacola
Juneau

Foodies will find both Pensacola and Juneau both to be great destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pensacola. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

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 Pensacola or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola
Juneau

Pensacola 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 Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

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 Pensacola or Juneau Better for Resorts?

Pensacola
Juneau

Pensacola is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Juneau is not a resort destination.

Pensacola is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

Juneau is not a resort destination.


Is Pensacola or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Pensacola
Juneau

Pensacola is an amazing beach town to visit for the beache. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Pensacola. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Pensacola or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Pensacola
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

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.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Juneau?

Pensacola
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping areas.

Juneau is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Pensacola has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.


Is Pensacola or Juneau Better for Families?

Pensacola
Juneau

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Pensacola or Juneau.

Pensacola is a very kid-friendly beach town. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. 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 Pensacola or Juneau Better for Couples?

Pensacola
Juneau

Juneau is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for couples.

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.

Pensacola makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

Is Pensacola or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pensacola
Juneau

Juneau is notable for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.


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

Pensacola
Juneau

Juneau is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Juneau a more walkable city?

Pensacola
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town 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.

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pensacola and Juneau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pensacola than in Juneau. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pensacola, and 2-3 days is enough time in Juneau.

Couples should spend more time in Juneau than Pensacola. 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pensacola 3-7 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Pensacola or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pensacola. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Juneau. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Pensacola or Juneau?

Pensacola is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pensacola or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pensacola. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic city of Juneau. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Pensacola or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Pensacola. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Juneau is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Pensacola?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pensacola is $198, 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 Pensacola and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pensacola $115
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pensacola $230
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Pensacola and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Pensacola 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 Pensacola


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: Pensacola Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pensacola $64
    Juneau $38
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pensacola

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Pensacola:

  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Pensacola to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Arrival Private Transfer: $71
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $142

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Pensacola or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $48
    Juneau $49
Typical Food Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

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

  • Seville Stroll Food Tour: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pensacola $13
    Juneau $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pensacola

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


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Public Dolphin & Scenic Bay Sightseeing Cruise, Pensacola FL: $30
  • Penscola Most Haunted: Ghost Tour and Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Ghosts and Graveyard Tour of Pensacola: $34
  • Hop-on Hop-off Tour in Pensacola : $35
  • Frisky Mermaid Public Dolphin + Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $37
  • Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour: $39
  • Pensacola Shared Trolley Ghost and Mystery Tour: $45
  • Seville Haunted Luncheon and Ghost Tour: $50
  • Land Paddle Tour in Pensacola: $50
  • Seville Quarter Haunted Ghost Tour, Investigation, and Luncheon: $50

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
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $123
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $132
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • eBikes Alaska - Rainforest Adventure: $160
  • Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise with Local Guide: $177
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska: $189
  • Juneau Whale Watching Adventure: $189

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pensacola $44
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

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

  • Walking Pub Tour : $21


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


Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Juneau?

Pensacola has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Juneau in the Summer?

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

Pensacola is much warmer than Juneau in the summer. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. It's quite rainy in Pensacola. In July, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Juneau. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pensacola 82°F (28°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Juneau in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Pensacola is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pensacola in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Juneau averages at about 42°F (6°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Pensacola is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pensacola 69°F (21°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Juneau in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In January, Pensacola is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 51°F (10°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pensacola usually receives around the same amount of rain as Juneau. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pensacola 51°F (10°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Juneau. Many travelers come to Pensacola for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to Juneau in the spring for the natural beauty.

Juneau can get quite cold in the spring. Pensacola is much warmer than Juneau in the spring. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 67°F (20°C) in April, and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Pensacola usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pensacola 67°F (20°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Pensacola

Pensacola Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)