Best Excursions for Families on an Alaska Cruise

Finding the best excursions for families on an Alaska cruise doesn’t have to break the bank. One of the things we loved most about our trip was that not every memorable day required an expensive, pre-booked excursion. Some of our family’s favorite experiences were a mix of organized tours and simply exploring the ports together. Here are the Alaska cruise ports we visited and what stood out most for our family.

Skagway: Meet Sled Dogs and Future Iditarod Champions

If your family loves animals, the Musher’s Camp and S’more Adventure is hard to beat.

One of the highlights was meeting adorable sled dog puppies that were only a few weeks old. Beyond the puppy cuddles, we learned about the life of a musher, how sled dogs are trained, and the history of the famous Iditarod race. Watching the dogs interact, play, and show off their enthusiasm for running was fascinating for both kids and adults.

After the educational portion, families can relax around a campfire and enjoy s’mores while taking in Alaska’s beautiful scenery.

Why Families Love It

• Meet and interact with sled dog puppies

• Learn about Alaska’s dog mushing culture

• Fun and educational experience

• Great photo opportunities

Also Worth Considering in Skagway

• White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

• Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

• Walking through Skagway’s historic downtown

Sitka: Bears, Wildlife, and Small-Town Charm

One of our favorite stops was the Fortress of the Bear Rescue Center.

This rescue facility provides a home for orphaned bears that cannot survive in the wild. The viewing areas allow visitors to safely observe the bears while learning about conservation and wildlife rehabilitation.

For families wanting to see bears without spending hundreds of dollars on a wilderness excursion, this is an affordable and accessible option.

Afterward, spend some time exploring Sitka itself. The town has a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful waterfront views, and plenty of local shops and walking paths.

Why Families Love It

• Affordable wildlife experience

• Close-up bear viewing

• Educational and family-friendly

• Easy excursion for all ages

Also Worth Exploring

• Sitka National Historical Park

• Totem poles and cultural exhibits

• Harbor walks and scenic viewpoints

Juneau: Shopping, Scenery, and Family Traditions

Juneau became one of our kids’ favorite ports for a funny reason: free jewelry samples.

Many of the jewelry stores hand out complimentary charms, bracelets, or small souvenirs, and our kids now refer to these treasures as their “Juneau Jewelry.” Exploring the shopping district became a fun scavenger hunt as they searched for the next free keepsake.

The Goldbelt Tram (Mount Roberts Tramway) is another family favorite. The ride provides incredible views of Juneau, the cruise ships, and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you’ll find walking trails, cultural displays, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Why Families Love It

• Free souvenirs and keepsakes

• Easy walking downtown

• Beautiful views from the tram

• Family-friendly attractions close to port

Also Worth Considering

• Mendenhall Glacier

• Whale watching tours

• Nugget Falls Trail

• Alaska State Museum

Ketchikan: Lumberjacks and Creek Street

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show was a surprisingly fun experience for the entire family.

The competition-style show features axe throwing, log rolling, climbing events, and plenty of audience participation. Even younger children stay engaged because there’s always something happening.

After the show, take time to stroll along Creek Street, one of Ketchikan’s most famous attractions. The colorful boardwalk, built over the creek, offers unique shops, local history, and excellent opportunities to spot salmon during the right season.

Why Families Love It

• Interactive entertainment

• Great for all ages

• Easy walk from the cruise port

• Historic waterfront atmosphere

A Tip for Parents

If you’re traveling with another adult and can sneak away for a few minutes, The Asylum offers an impressive beer selection with dozens of taps and a relaxed atmosphere.

Also Worth Exploring

• Salmon ladder viewing areas

• Totem Heritage Center

• Waterfront walking paths

• Local artisan shops

Haines: Slow Down and Explore Alaska’s History

Haines offers a different experience from some of Alaska’s busier cruise ports.

Rather than rushing from one attraction to the next, we enjoyed simply exploring the historic town and taking in the scenery. The slower pace makes it easy for families to wander, discover local shops, and appreciate Alaska’s small-town character.

The area is known for its rich history, mountain views, and abundant wildlife. It’s a great port for families who enjoy sightseeing without a strict schedule.

Why Families Love It

• Relaxed atmosphere

• Easy self-guided exploration

• Beautiful scenery

• Less crowded than many Alaska ports

Also Worth Considering

• Bald eagle viewing opportunities

• Hammer Museum

• Fort William H. Seward Historic District

• Scenic drives and nature walks

Final Thoughts: 

Some of our family’s best Alaska cruise memories came from a mix of organized excursions and simply exploring each port together. Whether it’s cuddling sled dog puppies in Skagway, watching rescued bears in Sitka, collecting “Juneau Jewelry,” cheering at the Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan, or wandering the historic streets of Haines, there are plenty of family-friendly experiences that don’t require spending a fortune.

Every family is different, but these were the activities that created the stories our kids still talk about long after the cruise ended. 🚢🐻🏔️🐕‍🦺