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

Should you visit Raleigh or Juneau?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Juneau? 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a suburban-style, friendly, and southern city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Raleigh and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Raleigh or Juneau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Raleigh 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 Raleigh is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Juneau is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier. Raleigh is popular for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Juneau is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

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

Juneau is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Juneau is an experience not to be missed. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Raleigh or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh 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 Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

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 Raleigh or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Juneau is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Juneau?

Juneau is well known for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Juneau Better for Families?

Juneau is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Raleigh or Juneau Better for Couples?

Juneau is very popular for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Raleigh or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Juneau is well known for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Juneau Better for Students?

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

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Juneau is not popular with students.

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

Juneau is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known 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 Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Raleigh or Juneau a more walkable city?

Juneau is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly 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.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Juneau?

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

Families should spend more time in Juneau than Raleigh. 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 Raleigh. 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh or Juneau?

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

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 Raleigh or Juneau?

Raleigh 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 Raleigh or Juneau?

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

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the student-friendly destination of Raleigh. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Juneau?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh or Juneau in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Juneau. The summer months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

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

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the summer. Raleigh gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Juneau. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Raleigh or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Juneau. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the autumn, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Raleigh usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Raleigh or Juneau in the Winter?

Both Juneau and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Raleigh during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the natural beauty during these months.

Juneau can be very cold during spring. In April, Raleigh is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 60°F (16°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the spring, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Juneau and Raleigh