Juneau Shopping and Districts

(Juneau, Alaska - AK, USA)



Since Juneau enjoys a busy and seasonal influx of cruise ship passengers, the shopping scene is particularly catered to make the very most of these summer tourists.

Giant cruise ships dock in Juneau on a daily basis, with their passengers debarking in huge numbers. Many of these tourists stroll the streets, looking for something to eat and a souvenir or two to take back home with them.

Therefore, the city's shopping opportunities are often geared towards the plentiful seasonal tourists, with numerous gift shops selling postcards, trinckets, jewelry, T-shirts, collectables, pictures, guide books, caps and all kinds of branded clothing. However, amidst the tourist frenzy, there are a few local stores that are more than worthy of searching out. And of course, the Nugget Shopping Mall on the western side of the city may also be of interest.


Where to Shop

The most centrally located selection of shops in Juneau line South Franklin Street and its intersecting roads, such as Front Street, 2nd Street and Marine Way. Here you will find several very decent art galleries, together with quality souvenirs and goodies for sale in stores such as Midnight Sun Gifts, Hearthside Books and Toys, and William Spear Design.

Those who are shopping for backpacking equipment or winter ski gear may like to pay a visit to the Foggy Mountain Shop on North Franklin Street, where all kinds of activewear, outerwear and footwear meets the needs of backpackers, rock climbers and skiers alike.

For a slightly more serious shopping trip in Juneau, you will need to head along Egan Drive (Alaska Route 7) to the rather rundown Nugget Shopping Mall, which is located between the Glacier Highway and Mallard Street, being within walking distance of the airport. This single-storey indoor mall is made up of a fairly basic collection of around 20 shops and eateries. These include Boarderline (for skateboards and snowboards), Hallmark, the Nugget Alaskan Outfitter, Office Max, Petco and Radio Shack.

Just up the road from the Nugget Mall is the Mendenhall Mall, which serves as Juneau's other 'shopping center'. There are several eateries situated here, such as Udder Culture and Bullwinkle's Pizza Parlor, although most people come here simply for their grocery shopping, paying a visit to the Super Bear Supermarket.

Alternatively, drive along Vintage Boulevard, just off the Mendenhall Mall Road, to the Safeway supermarket. If the Costco warehouse is a favorite of yours, then there is a big Costco store on the Commercial Boulevard, roughly a ten-minute drive from downtown Juneau and next to the Home Depot.