Before I make my pick for the best Juneau hotel, there are a few things you should know about Juneau and Alaska lodging in general.
Juneau is a small city with a dozen or so hotels and several dozen more bed and breakfasts.
The juneau hotel options are somewhat limited, as you would expect with a city of this size. But then you probably aren't traveling to Alaska to stay at a five star hotel.
In Juneau and the rest of Alaska, it's more about the incredible natural beauty and endless opportunities for recreation and adventure than it is about the decor of your hotel room.
With that being said, there are some perfectly comfortable, clean, and perfectly nice hotels in Juneau.
Of these, I think the best is the Westmark Baranof Hotel in downtown Juneau.
The hotel is definitely from a different era, having been built in 1939.
Ever since it was built, the hotel has been host to all the political dignitaries that come to town for functions at the state capitol, giving the place a more urbane, sophisticated feel than other hotels in the area.
The art deco style hotel is currently owned by the Holland America Cruise Lines.
The company recently spent $3.5 million to renovate the entire hotel, including its lobby, lounge, and guest rooms.
On the down side, the hotel does not have air conditioning, and the bathrooms are small.
But it's a nice, comfortable place to stay, the restaurant is great, and it's centrally located.
As for the best hotel deal in Juneau, it's not an easy choice. Hotels, like everything else in Juneau, are expensive.
But my pick for the best deal in this tight market would have to be the Best Western Country Lane Inn near the airport.
The hotel is a stone's throw away from the airport, not exactly a pristine wilderness location.
However, it is usually quite a bit less than comparable hotels near the airport, it offers a good, free continental breakfast, high speed internet access, and even free cookies every day.
Whatever Juneau hotel you choose, I think you will have a wonderful time in this region, which is one of the most beautiful I have ever visited.
