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

Should you visit Phoenix or Juneau?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Juneau can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a desert, laid back, and sprawling city. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Phoenix and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 Phoenix or Juneau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Phoenix and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Phoenix is known for its nightlife. Juneau is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Phoenix different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.


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

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Phoenix or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix
Juneau

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Around Juneau visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.


Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Juneau?

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Phoenix or Juneau Better for Families?

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Phoenix or Juneau Better for Couples?

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Juneau is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.


Is Phoenix or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

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

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

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

Phoenix
Juneau

Phoenix and Juneau both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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

Is Phoenix or Juneau a more walkable city?

Phoenix
Juneau

Juneau is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.


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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Juneau?

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

Families should spend more time in Juneau than Phoenix. 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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Phoenix 1-3 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Phoenix or Juneau?

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

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.

A weekend in Phoenix or Juneau?

Phoenix 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.

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.

Five days in Phoenix or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phoenix. 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.

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.


A week in Phoenix or Juneau?

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

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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Phoenix?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $238, 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 Phoenix and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phoenix $144
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phoenix $288
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Phoenix 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 Phoenix


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: Phoenix Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phoenix $39
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

  • Private Transfer From Hotels To Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport PHX : $41
  • Private Tesla Transfer from Phoenix Airport to all Hotels : $42
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $90
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $103
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $103
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $103
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $103
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $110
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $115
  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $117

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 Phoenix or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $52
    Juneau $49
Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Awesome French Crêpes Cooking Class: $75
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $92
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $92
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Phoenix $40
    Juneau $17

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Phoenix.

  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Mesa by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Phoenix Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Private Blackout Motel Escape Room Experience in Avondale: $24
  • The Scottsdale Selfie Experience: $25
  • Ghosts & Poltergeists Guided Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball Game Ticket: $35
  • Phoenix Zoo: One Day General Admission Ticket: $38
  • Phoenix Zoo Admission Ticket: $38
  • Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghost Hunting Tour: $39
  • Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghost Hunting Tour : $39
  • Magical Sunset Yoga Experience, Unique Views: $44

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
    Phoenix $17
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Scottsdale Bar Hunt: Scorching Scottsdale Bar Crawl: $12
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $55
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $156
  • Ghost town of Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour: $215


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


Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Juneau?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Phoenix during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Phoenix can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Phoenix is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 98°F (36°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. In the summer, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Phoenix gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun.

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Phoenix usually gets less rain in July than Juneau. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Phoenix or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Juneau. Many visitors come to Phoenix in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Phoenix is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 79°F (26°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during autumn. Phoenix gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Juneau. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Phoenix or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Juneau. Most visitors come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Juneau because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Juneau can be very cold. In the winter, Phoenix is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phoenix in January average around 58°F (14°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In the winter, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Phoenix gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Phoenix usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Phoenix or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the spring. In April, Phoenix is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 74°F (23°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during spring. Phoenix gets 355 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Juneau. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Phoenix

Phoenix Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)