Juneau

Juneau Travel Guide:

Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is a fascinating destination offering a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. It's a gateway to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and glaciers, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Top Attractions and Activities:

1. Mendenhall Glacier: A stunning glacier located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, accessible by bus or car. Explore trails and view the glacier and its waterfall.

2. Tracy Arm Fjord: A breathtaking fjord with towering waterfalls, massive icebergs, and granite cliffs.

3. Mount Roberts Tramway: Offers panoramic views of Juneau and is a gateway to hiking trails.

4. Alaska State Museum: Exhibits showcase Alaska’s history, cultures, and art.

5. Juneau Icefield: Explore one of the largest icefields in the world and its outlet glaciers.

6. Whale Watching Tours: Embark on boat tours to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life.

7. Dog Sledding: Experience dog sledding on the glaciers in summer, accessible by helicopter tours.

8. Hiking: Juneau has numerous trails ranging from easy to strenuous, like the Perseverance Trail and the West Glacier Trail.

9. Tongass National Forest: This is the nation's largest national forest, and it surrounds Juneau, offering a myriad of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing.

10. Alaska State Capitol: This functional and historic building offers guided tours providing insight into the state's political history and processes.

11. St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church: This historical church is one of the oldest intact buildings in Juneau, representing the Russian influence in Alaska.

12. Eagle Beach State Recreation Area: A beautiful area for bird watching, especially for bald eagles, and it offers scenic views and picnic spots.

13. Juneau-Douglas City Museum: Offers exhibitions and collections focusing on the local history, culture, and art of the Juneau-Douglas area.

14. Last Chance Mining Museum: This museum provides insights into Juneau's mining history and houses mining equipment and artifacts.

15. Macaulay Salmon Hatchery: Visitors can learn about the lifecycle of salmon and the hatchery’s role in sustaining the salmon population.

16. Gold Creek Salmon Bake: Experience an Alaskan tradition and enjoy a meal of grilled salmon in a beautiful forested setting.

17. Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure: This botanical garden offers tours through lush landscapes and provides stunning views of Juneau.

18. Perseverance Theatre: For those interested in the arts, catching a performance at Alaska's largest professional theatre can be a delightful experience.

Best Areas to Stay:

• Downtown Juneau: Proximity to attractions, dining, and shopping options. Good base for first-time visitors.

• Auke Bay: Peaceful area, good for wildlife watching and accessing outdoor activities.

• Douglas: Offers a quieter stay with nearby beaches and trails.

Accessibility:

Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, stands as a unique testament to the state’s sublime but remote beauty, distinguished by its inaccessibility via conventional roadways. Nestled between rugged mountain terrains and the glistening waters of the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is uniquely isolated, only reachable by air or sea, making it a singular anomaly among U.S. capital cities. This seclusion underscores Alaska's wild, untamed essence, embodying a frontier spirit that continues to draw adventurers and nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Juneau's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage must navigate this geographical seclusion by relying on air travel or sea routes. This journey, albeit less conventional, only enhances the allure of Juneau, rewarding visitors with unparalleled vistas, flourishing wildlife, and a chance to experience the tranquility and majesty inherent to Alaska’s remote wilderness. Whether soaring above the scenic panoramas or cutting through the serene Alaskan waters, the voyage to Juneau is a reminder of the untouched, pristine beauty that awaits at the edge of the world.

• Accessibility and Transportation Details:

  1. Juneau International Airport (JNU):

     • This is the main gateway to Juneau, offering flights to and from major Alaskan cities and several destinations in the continental U.S.

     • Airport shuttle services, taxis, and rental car agencies are available at the airport for transportation to your accommodation or around the city.

  2. Ferry Services:

     • Juneau is a part of the Alaska Marine Highway System, which offers ferry services connecting Juneau to other coastal communities in Alaska, providing an alternative to flying.

     • The ferry can accommodate vehicles, allowing travelers to bring their cars, RVs, or even bicycles, although it is not essential to have a vehicle in Juneau.

  3. Public Transit:

     • Capital Transit provides bus services throughout the city and to nearby areas, offering an economical way to explore.

     • The routes are well-planned, connecting major attractions, shopping areas, and accommodations.

  4. Car Rentals and Taxis:

     • Several car rental agencies operate in Juneau, and having a rental car can be convenient for exploring areas outside of the city or not covered by public transit.

     • Taxis are readily available and can be a convenient option for short distances or areas not served by public transit.

  5. Walking:

     • Juneau’s downtown area is compact and walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance of each other.

  6. Excursions and Tours:

     • Numerous tour operators offer guided tours to attractions and natural sites around Juneau, often providing transportation as part of the package, which can simplify logistics for visitors.

Park Services and Safety:

• The local visitor center can provide information, maps, and advice on park services and safety.

• Be prepared for sudden weather changes; waterproof clothing and layers are advised.

Packing and Clothing Guide:

• Layers for variable weather conditions.

• Waterproof clothing and footwear.

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

Shopping:

Shopping in Juneau offers a blend of authentic Alaskan souvenirs, handmade crafts, exquisite jewelry, and high-quality outdoor gear. While the city may be remotely located and accessible only by boat or plane, it boasts a variety of shopping experiences that appeal to both locals and visitors. Here are some highlights for shopping in Juneau:

• Downtown Juneau:

  • Heart of the city and a haven for shopping enthusiasts.

  • Offers Alaskan native art, locally made crafts, and fine jewelry.

  • Features souvenir shops with unique Alaskan items like Ulu knives and totem poles.

  • Houses boutiques, bookstores, gift shops, and specialty food stores with Alaskan gourmet foods.

• Nugget Mall:

  • Popular shopping center located a bit away from downtown.

  • Variety of retail stores, specialty shops, and dining options.

  • Ideal for finding apparel, electronics, and other general merchandise.

• Mendenhall Mall:

  • Another convenient shopping location with various stores, services, and eateries.

• Art Galleries and Specialty Shops:

  • Houses several art galleries showcasing native art, paintings, sculptures by local artists.

  • Specialty shops offer handcrafted items, local confections, gourmet foods, and unique finds.

• Outdoor and Adventure Gear Stores:

  • Offers high-quality apparel, footwear, and equipment suited for the Alaskan wilderness.

  • Catering to hiking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor pursuits.

• Local Markets:

  • A must-visit for those interested in locally produced goods.

  • Features fresh produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and artworks by local artisans.

• Juneau's Locally Made Products:

  • Look for unique products like Alaskan smoked salmon, hand-knit qiviut items, birch syrup, and spruce tip products reflecting the distinctive flavors and textures of the region.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Juneau:

• Bars and Pubs: Juneau hosts a range of bars and pubs, offering a variety of locally brewed beers and spirits. Places like the Alaskan Hotel & Bar provide a historic ambiance, while the Imperial Billiard & Bar offers pool tables and a casual atmosphere.

• Live Music and Performances: The city has venues hosting live music and performances regularly. Check out local schedules for concerts, live bands, and events at places like the Juneau Arts & Culture Center.

• Theater and Arts: Perseverance Theatre, the leading professional theater in Alaska, offers a range of plays and performances. Juneau also features several art galleries and exhibitions showcasing local talent.

• Restaurants and Eateries: Many restaurants in Juneau offer entertainment in the form of live music along with delicious local cuisine, allowing you to enjoy the culinary arts of Alaska while being entertained.

• Outdoor Adventures: For those who find thrill and entertainment in the great outdoors, Juneau offers nighttime glacier tours, Northern Lights viewing excursions, and evening wildlife spotting tours, making the most of Alaska's unique landscapes and ecosystems.