The Baranof Downtown Hotel is the grand old name of downtown Juneau, a hotel that has stood on the hillside above the waterfront since 1939 and that many longtime visitors still remember as the Westmark Baranof. It sits in the compact downtown core, which means you can step outside and be a short walk from the Alaska State Capitol, the historic streets, the shops, the museum and the cruise docks. For travelers who want to experience Juneau on foot, the location is hard to beat, because so many of the town's attractions cluster within a few blocks, and tours that depart from the waterfront are easy to reach before breakfast. The hotel has the feel of a traditional city hotel rather than a lodge, with a large building, a central lobby and rooms that range from simple to comfortable.
The appeal is partly history and partly convenience. A 1939 building carries stories of legislators, travelers and locals, and the hotel has long been associated with the business of the capital. Because the Capitol is nearby, it is a natural base for anyone visiting Juneau on government or business trips, but it works equally well for tourists who want a central address.
Check the property for seasonal operating dates, as some downtown hotels adjust their schedules outside the summer visitor season, and confirm which rooms have views of the channel or the hillside. Water-facing rooms are worth requesting if you enjoy watching ships and floatplanes, and quieter rooms away from the street suit light sleepers.
What to expect from the stay is a traditional, practical experience. Expect a front desk and lobby, a restaurant or bar on or near the property, elevators and standard room amenities such as a private bath, television and Wi-Fi; confirm details when you book because services can change from season to season. Rooms vary in size and age, with some updated and others more classic, and the best approach is to read the room description carefully and read recent guest reviews.
The hotel is a short walk from the Mount Roberts Tramway and the main cruise docks, but a steep hill separates some parts of downtown, so ask about the route if mobility is a concern. Parking in downtown Juneau can be limited, so ask about the arrangement if you plan to rent a car.
Who it suits
First-time visitors who want to stay in the middle of things, cruise passengers adding pre or post-cruise nights, business and government travelers and anyone who likes older hotels with character. It is less suited to travelers who want a wilderness lodge atmosphere, a quiet suburban base or a place close to the glacier, since the Mendenhall Valley is about twelve miles away and requires a taxi, bus or rental car.
Pair a stay here with a morning whale watching trip, an afternoon at the museum and a walk along the waterfront. Book early for summer because downtown rooms are in demand, and read the cancellation terms. Ask the staff for local tips, because the front desk often knows which restaurants have tables.
Why stay here
- ✓Downtown location near the Capitol
- ✓Walk to the Mount Roberts Tramway
- ✓Near cruise docks and waterfront tours
- ✓Building dating from 1939
- ✓Rooms with channel or hillside views
- ✓On-site or nearby dining
- ✓Short walk to museum and shops
- ✓Check seasonal operating dates
Good questions
Is the Baranof the same hotel as the Westmark Baranof?+
It is the downtown Juneau hotel long known as the Westmark Baranof. Check the current name and details when you book.
Is it walkable to the cruise docks?+
Yes, the hotel is in the downtown core, within walking distance of the waterfront, though some streets are steep.
Is it open year-round?+
Hours and seasons can change. Confirm operating dates for your travel period.