Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
Welcome to the FAQ page for Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure! We know many of our guests have questions before their visit, so we’ve gathered answers to the most common ones here. Whether you’re a local from Juneau or visiting us from afar, we want you to feel fully prepared for an unforgettable rainforest experience.
Speak With a Tour Specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the FAQ page for Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure! We know many of our guests have questions before their visit, so we’ve gathered answers to the most common ones here. Whether you’re a local from Juneau or visiting us from afar, we want you to feel fully prepared for an unforgettable rainforest experience.
Speak With a Tour Specialist
FAQ
We are open daily from May 1st through September 30th, with hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please note that our hours and days of operation can sometimes vary depending on the weather, which is no surprise in Southeast Alaska’s temperate rainforest climate. We recommend calling us at 907-790-3377 before heading over to confirm we’re open, especially if the weather looks unpredictable.
Call to Confirm Hours
Our tour prices for 2025 are $36.70 after tax for adults and $19.90 after tax for children ages 6-12. Children 5 and under are free. These prices reflect the immersive, fully guided experience we offer and are subject to change. We encourage you to check our website or call ahead for the most current pricing.
Call for Tour Pricing
If you’re visiting with a group of fewer than 10 people, no reservation is required. We do not pre-sell tickets in advance. Tours run roughly every hour, with the first tour beginning at 9:15 a.m. and the last tour at 4:30 p.m. We recommend arriving at least ten minutes before your preferred tour time to ensure you’re checked in and ready to go.
Contact Us About Tour Times
Our guided rainforest tour lasts about one hour, but we suggest planning for at least an hour and a half at Glacier Gardens. After your tour, you are welcome to linger in the visitor center, explore the lower walking gardens, browse the gift shop, or relax in the café until we close for the day.
Call to Plan Your Visit Length
We are located about seven miles from the cruise ship docks in downtown Juneau. While we do not provide transportation, Juneau has several local taxi companies, and services like Lyft and Uber are available. Additionally, the city bus system stops about 528 feet from our visitor center entrance. You can plan your route using the CBJ (City and Borough of Juneau) website.
Call for Directions or Transit Tips
Our tours are fully guided using covered, open-air vehicles, making them accessible and comfortable for guests of all ages and abilities. While we don’t offer a dedicated walking tour, we do have a lovely lower garden area that guests are welcome to explore on foot after the guided portion of the experience.
Contact Us About Garden Access
Our Rainforest Café offers a selection of light fare and beverages. We have chips, candy, pastries, and other snack items. For something a bit heartier, we offer pre-prepared hot foods like hot dogs, chili, and soup. You’ll also find bottled sodas, juices, teas, and water available. Coffee lovers will be happy to know we have an espresso bar serving up a variety of hot drinks to keep you cozy.
Call for Café Info
One of the most iconic features of our tour is the Flower Towers — stunning upside-down trees adorned with vibrant flower baskets, created from storm-felled trees by founder Steve Bowhay. You’ll also travel through the magnificent Tongass National Forest, where you’ll see native plants, lush ferns, moss-covered trees, and possibly spot wildlife like bald eagles. Along the way, our guides will point out breathtaking views of the Mendenhall Valley and the Chilkat Mountains, creating a truly memorable experience.
Speak With a Tour Guide
Yes! Accessibility is important to us. Our covered vehicles are designed to accommodate guests with mobility challenges, and the guided nature of the tour means you can enjoy the rainforest without strenuous walking. The lower garden area, while smaller, is also available for light walking after the tour.
Call to Ask About Accessibility
Absolutely! We love helping guests celebrate special moments. Our Atrium inside the visitor center is a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings. The Atrium can accommodate up to 120 guests and offers a stunning backdrop of the rainforest, providing a unique and unforgettable setting for your event. Please contact us directly to inquire about availability and booking details.
Contact Us for Event Booking
Yes! One of the guest favorites at Glacier Gardens is our live camera feed of an active bald eagle nest located on the property. You can watch these majestic birds in action from the comfort of our visitor center atrium, adding an extra touch of Alaska’s wild beauty to your visit. You can even watch our live stream at home! Search Glacier Gardens Eagle Cam on YouTube to watch our eaglets grow up!
Call for Eagle Cam Info
Given Juneau’s ever-changing weather, we recommend dressing in layers and bringing a rain jacket just in case. Even though our vehicles are covered, the rainforest can be cool and damp. Comfortable walking shoes are also a good idea, especially if you plan to explore the lower garden area. Don’t forget your camera — you’ll definitely want to capture the beauty around you!
Ask a Local Expert What to Bring
Yes! Our nursery at 9148 James Blvd in the Mendenhall Valley is a beloved resource for local gardeners and landscapers. We offer a wide variety of hanging baskets, annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees suited to Southeast Alaska’s climate. We also ship hanging baskets and annuals across Southeast Alaska. Stop by the nursery for expert gardening advice and quality plants that thrive in our local environment.
Contact Our Nursery Team
Frequently Asked Questions
When are we open?
We are open daily from May 1st through September 30th, with hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please note that our hours and days of operation can sometimes vary depending on the weather, which is no surprise in Southeast Alaska’s temperate rainforest climate. We recommend calling us at 907-790-3377 before heading over to confirm we’re open, especially if the weather looks unpredictable.
Call to Confirm Hours
What is the cost of a tour?
Our tour prices for 2025 are $36.70 after tax for adults and $19.90 after tax for children ages 6-12. Children 5 and under are free. These prices reflect the immersive, fully guided experience we offer and are subject to change. We encourage you to check our website or call ahead for the most current pricing.
Call for Tour Pricing
Do I need a reservation?
If you’re visiting with a group of fewer than 10 people, no reservation is required. We do not pre-sell tickets in advance. Tours run roughly every hour, with the first tour beginning at 9:15 a.m. and the last tour at 4:30 p.m. We recommend arriving at least ten minutes before your preferred tour time to ensure you’re checked in and ready to go.
Contact Us About Tour Times
How long does a tour last?
Our guided rainforest tour lasts about one hour, but we suggest planning for at least an hour and a half at Glacier Gardens. After your tour, you are welcome to linger in the visitor center, explore the lower walking gardens, browse the gift shop, or relax in the café until we close for the day.
Call to Plan Your Visit Length
How far are you from the cruise ship docks? Do you offer transportation?
We are located about seven miles from the cruise ship docks in downtown Juneau. While we do not provide transportation, Juneau has several local taxi companies, and services like Lyft and Uber are available. Additionally, the city bus system stops about 528 feet from our visitor center entrance. You can plan your route using the CBJ (City and Borough of Juneau) website.
Call for Directions or Transit Tips
Do you offer a walking tour?
Our tours are fully guided using covered, open-air vehicles, making them accessible and comfortable for guests of all ages and abilities. While we don’t offer a dedicated walking tour, we do have a lovely lower garden area that guests are welcome to explore on foot after the guided portion of the experience.
Contact Us About Garden Access
What’s on the menu at the Rainforest Café?
Our Rainforest Café offers a selection of light fare and beverages. We have chips, candy, pastries, and other snack items. For something a bit heartier, we offer pre-prepared hot foods like hot dogs, chili, and soup. You’ll also find bottled sodas, juices, teas, and water available. Coffee lovers will be happy to know we have an espresso bar serving up a variety of hot drinks to keep you cozy.
Call for Café Info
What makes the Rainforest Adventure Tour unique?
One of the most iconic features of our tour is the Flower Towers — stunning upside-down trees adorned with vibrant flower baskets, created from storm-felled trees by founder Steve Bowhay. You’ll also travel through the magnificent Tongass National Forest, where you’ll see native plants, lush ferns, moss-covered trees, and possibly spot wildlife like bald eagles. Along the way, our guides will point out breathtaking views of the Mendenhall Valley and the Chilkat Mountains, creating a truly memorable experience.
Speak With a Tour Guide
Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
Yes! Accessibility is important to us. Our covered vehicles are designed to accommodate guests with mobility challenges, and the guided nature of the tour means you can enjoy the rainforest without strenuous walking. The lower garden area, while smaller, is also available for light walking after the tour.
Call to Ask About Accessibility
Can I host a private event or wedding at Glacier Gardens?
Absolutely! We love helping guests celebrate special moments. Our Atrium inside the visitor center is a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings. The Atrium can accommodate up to 120 guests and offers a stunning backdrop of the rainforest, providing a unique and unforgettable setting for your event. Please contact us directly to inquire about availability and booking details.
Contact Us for Event Booking
Is there a live camera feed of the bald eagle nest?
Yes! One of the guest favorites at Glacier Gardens is our live camera feed of an active bald eagle nest located on the property. You can watch these majestic birds in action from the comfort of our visitor center atrium, adding an extra touch of Alaska’s wild beauty to your visit. You can even watch our live stream at home! Search Glacier Gardens Eagle Cam on YouTube to watch our eaglets grow up!
Call for Eagle Cam Info
What should I wear or bring for the tour?
Given Juneau’s ever-changing weather, we recommend dressing in layers and bringing a rain jacket just in case. Even though our vehicles are covered, the rainforest can be cool and damp. Comfortable walking shoes are also a good idea, especially if you plan to explore the lower garden area. Don’t forget your camera — you’ll definitely want to capture the beauty around you!
Ask a Local Expert What to Bring
Can locals purchase plants or hanging baskets from the nursery?
Yes! Our nursery at 9148 James Blvd in the Mendenhall Valley is a beloved resource for local gardeners and landscapers. We offer a wide variety of hanging baskets, annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees suited to Southeast Alaska’s climate. We also ship hanging baskets and annuals across Southeast Alaska. Stop by the nursery for expert gardening advice and quality plants that thrive in our local environment.
Contact Our Nursery Team
proud to share the beauty of Juneau
Be Sure to Visit Us Today!
At Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, we’re proud to share the beauty of Juneau and the Tongass National Forest with visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re joining us for a guided rainforest tour, relaxing in the café, or shopping for plants at our nursery, we want you to feel welcome, inspired, and connected to Alaska’s incredible natural world. If you have any additional questions, feel free to give us a call or ask when you arrive — we’re here to help make your visit unforgettable.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Glacier Gardens!
Plan Your Visit With Us