Waterfront Promenade and Franklin Street
South Franklin St., Juneau, AK, 99801
Juneau’s waterfront is a hub of activity, and Franklin Street is its most famous thoroughfare. This historic heart of the Alaskan capital comprises a collection of Gold Rush–themed restaurants, old-time saloons, clapboard balconies, and Victorian architecture, making you feel like you’re stepping into another era.
The basics
Explore Franklin Street to find many of the city’s shops, restaurants, and landmarks, plus departure points for popular whale-watching cruises. Some of the street's notable attractions include the USS Juneau Memorial, the Senate Building, and the Juneau Founders statue. Just about every sightseeing tour in town will pass along Franklin Street.
Things to know before you go
Franklin Street and the Waterfront Promenade serve as the historic heart of Juneau.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as downtown Juneau is best explored on foot.
Aside from some inclines, this area of Juneau is largely wheelchair accessible.
How to get there
Juneau is compact and walkable, and it’s easy to get to the waterfront or Franklin Street on foot from just about anywhere in town.
When to get there
The best time to visit Franklin Street and the waterfront district is during the summer (May to August). Many businesses along Franklin Street and the surrounding areas close during the off season.
What’s in the name
Franklin Street is one of the oldest streets in Juneau, and it was named after Howard Franklin, chairman of the committee tasked with laying out the city streets in 1881. Franklin was originally from British Columbia and came to Juneau to work in the Silverbow Basin mines. The Franklin Gulch is also named after him.
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