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

Should you visit Nags Head or Juneau?

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

Should I visit Nags Head 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.

Nags Head

And you can't forget about the nightlife and food. See Nags Head 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.

Nags Head and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 Nags Head or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Nags Head 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 Nags Head attracts visitors for its nightlife. Juneau is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier. Nags Head is famous for

How is Nags Head different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Juneau?

Nags Head
Juneau

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

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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Nags Head or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Juneau

Nags Head is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Nags Head offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at 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 Nags Head or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Juneau?

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is great for shopping. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Juneau More Beautiful?

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Nags Head is not a destination known for its 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.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nags Head or Juneau Better for Families?

Nags Head
Juneau

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or Juneau.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Juneau is a very kid-friendly . 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 Nags Head or Juneau Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Nags Head or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

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

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head 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 Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.


Is Nags Head or Juneau a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Juneau

Juneau is great for its walkability. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is generally not very walkable. This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Juneau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Juneau. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-3 days is enough time in Juneau.

Families should spend more time in Juneau than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Nags Head or Juneau?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Juneau. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Juneau?

Nags Head 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.

You'll find museums and food around the breathtaking destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nags Head or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic city of Juneau. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nags Head or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the activity-filled destination of Nags Head. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Nags Head?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
    Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Juneau $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Juneau is $196. 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 Nags Head and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head 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 Nags Head


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Juneau $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $71
    Juneau $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Juneau $17

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65

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 Hour Fishing Experience/Class in Juneau: $225
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau, Alaska: $189
  • 4-Hour Wildlife and Coastal Tour in Juneau, Alaska: $220
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $145
  • Alpine Segway Wilderness Trail Adventure: $180
  • Alpine Zipline Adventure in Juneau, AK: $257
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $145
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: $129
  • Juneau Lighthouse Tours - Whale watching & Lighthouse Combo: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

Also in Juneau, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159


When comparing the travel costs between Nags Head 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 Nags Head Expensive? and Is Juneau Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Nags Head during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Nags Head because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

In the summer, Nags Head is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nags Head in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. In the summer, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Nags Head gets 274 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually gets more rain in July than Juneau. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Juneau. Furthermore, many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nags Head is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 62°F (16°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during autumn. Nags Head gets 205 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, Nags Head usually receives less rain than Juneau. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Juneau. Many travelers come to Nags Head for the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Nags Head. Nags Head is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nags Head usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Juneau for the natural beauty during these months.

Juneau can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Nags Head is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nags Head in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during spring. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Juneau. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Nags Head

Nags Head Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)