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

Should you visit Marathon or Juneau?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Juneau, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Marathon travel costs.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. Many visitors also come to Juneau because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Juneau travel costs.

Marathon and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Marathon and Juneau are popular destinations, Juneau has more sights and attractions for tourists. Juneau is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Marathon attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Marathon is famous for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Marathon different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Juneau is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Juneau can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Juneau. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Marathon 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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Juneau Better for Resorts?

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

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Juneau is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Juneau Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Juneau is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Juneau is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Marathon is a well-known place for the beach. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

Marathon is considered a top beach destination. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Juneau is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Juneau draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Juneau?

Juneau is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Juneau More Beautiful?

Juneau is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Juneau because of it's amazing beauty. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Is Marathon or Juneau Better for Families?

Marathon and Juneau are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Juneau is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Marathon or Juneau Better for Couples?

Juneau is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Juneau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Is Marathon or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Juneau is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Juneau is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Juneau is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Juneau a more walkable city?

Juneau is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Juneau?

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

Couples should spend more time in Juneau than Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Marathon. 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.

The beautiful city of Juneau offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Juneau?

Marathon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Juneau, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Juneau?

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

Juneau is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Marathon. This island 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Juneau, we can see that Juneau is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marathon Expensive? and Is Juneau Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Marathon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Juneau for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Marathon is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Marathon gets 328 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. Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Juneau. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Juneau. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marathon is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives less rain than Juneau. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Juneau. The winter months attract visitors to Marathon because of the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

It's quite cold in Juneau in the winter. Marathon is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Juneau. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Juneau and Marathon