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

Should you visit Wilmington or Juneau?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a historic, welcoming, and charming city. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Wilmington 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.

Wilmington and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Wilmington or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Wilmington 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 Wilmington attracts visitors for its nightlife, beaches, and historical sights. Juneau is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier. Wilmington is famous for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Wilmington different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is great for its historical sights. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Wilmington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.


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

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Wilmington or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Juneau

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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 Wilmington or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Juneau

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

Wilmington is considered a top beach destination. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Juneau is not a beach destination.


Is Wilmington or Juneau Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Juneau

Wilmington is a popular place for its old town. However, Juneau does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Wilmington to see the old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Juneau does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Juneau?

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is great for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.


Is Wilmington or Juneau More Beautiful?

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wilmington or Juneau Better for Families?

Wilmington
Juneau

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

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Juneau is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Wilmington or Juneau Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.


Is Wilmington or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Juneau Better for Students?

Wilmington
Juneau

Wilmington is a popular place for students. However, Juneau is not popular with students.

Wilmington is a good city to visit for students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Juneau is not popular with students.

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

Wilmington
Juneau

Wilmington and Juneau both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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


Is Wilmington or Juneau a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Juneau

Juneau is great for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wilmington and Juneau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than in Juneau. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Juneau.

Families should spend more time in Juneau than Wilmington. 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 Wilmington. 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wilmington 2-5 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Wilmington or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wilmington. 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.

With museums and food around the historic city of Juneau, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wilmington or Juneau?

Wilmington 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Juneau, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Wilmington or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wilmington. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Wilmington. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Juneau is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Wilmington?

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

  • Wilmington Prices
    USA Prices
    Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wilmington $245
    Juneau $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $245, 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 Wilmington and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington 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 Wilmington


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: Wilmington Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wilmington $47
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Wilmington or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $97
    Juneau $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wilmington $17
    Juneau $17

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

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

  • True Crime Tour of Wilmington: $20
  • Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $24
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour: $26
  • Holiday Lights Cruise: $30
  • Wilmington Speakeasy and History Tour: $30
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Sunset Cruise with Live Music: $45
  • Wrightsville Beach Sunset Dolphin Tour: $49

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
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $145
  • Historical Walking Tour of Abandoned Gold Rush Era City with AR: $99
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Lighthouse Tours - Whale watching & Lighthouse Combo: $199
  • Juneau Private Tour or Shore Excursion Authentic Alaskan Cuisine: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wilmington $39
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

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

  • Walking Pub Crawl in Downtown Juneau: $115
  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159


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


Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Juneau?

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

Both Juneau and Wilmington during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the summer for the beaches 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, Wilmington is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wilmington in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. In the summer, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Wilmington gets 283 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 Wilmington. Wilmington usually gets more rain in July than Juneau. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Juneau. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the shopping scene 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, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 65°F (18°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during autumn. Wilmington gets 227 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, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Juneau. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Juneau. The winter months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and 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. Wilmington is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Wilmington usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Wilmington 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, Wilmington is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wilmington in April average around 63°F (17°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during spring. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Juneau. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Wilmington

Wilmington Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)