If you’ve never been to Juneau, Alaska, then you’re missing out on a spectacular travel experience! This tiny coastal city is the capital of the US state of Alaska, and the only capital accessible only by water or air. The city is a charming mix of old and new, with the main hub being the waterfront. There are many places to see and things to do in Juneau, including the Mendenhall Glacier, which is located about 12 miles northwest of downtown.
When you visit Juneau, you can also purchase souvenirs as keepsakes of your trip. There are many different things to buy in Juneau, from nativity sets to nutcrackers. You can even find a jolly old Santa Claus in full winter gear! Once you’ve taken home the perfect souvenir, you can continue your vacation tradition for years to come. There’s no shortage of options for a memento of your trip, so don’t be afraid to buy something that you’ll treasure for years to come!
The city is home to state offices, museums, and cruise ship docks. The town is a popular port for cruise ships, and its art stores are a feast for the eyes. You can purchase unique items, including totemic silver jewelry and knives. Taking a self-guided tour through Juneau’s historic district can take as little as two hours, so don’t worry about rushing through everything on your own.
While the weather in Juneau is typically sunny and warm, you should pack accordingly. Juneau’s climate is mild in the winter and warm in the summer, though the temperature may occasionally dip below zero. Even if the temperatures don’t reach 70 degrees in the summer, Juneau does receive quite a bit of rain. Since the city is a rainforest, the area does have rainy days. Bringing rain gear is a good idea if you plan on hiking or camping in the surrounding area.
A visit to Juneau is not complete without a whale-watching trip. While whale watching is a must when visiting Juneau, this experience is especially magical during the migration season. During the spring and summer months, humpback whales return to the waters around Juneau. Those who go whale watching during this time can see the giant ice field and its 30 glaciers, including the famous Mendenhall Glacier.
A day trip from Juneau begins by catching the Goldbelt Tram, which starts from the dock in downtown Juneau. The goldbelt tram is Southeast Alaska’s only aerial tramway, and is decorated with traditional Tlingit artwork. It takes passengers through the Southeast Alaska rainforest, and up to the 1800-foot level of Mount Roberts. Afterwards, passengers can enjoy a lunch at the Shaa Hit Mountain House, a cozy lodge nestled in the sub alpine meadow.
There are many things to do in Juneau, Alaska. Many people enjoy walking, hiking, and cycling, and the city’s downtown has sidewalks. Nearby neighborhoods are also walkable, and some roads even feature bike lanes. There is also a bike path along the main highway that runs alongside the city’s downtown. When it comes to healthcare, Juneau is home to the Bartlett Regional Hospital, which offers 24/7 emergency care and medical assistance.