🌴 Explore Juneau, Alaska
Tucked between forested mountains and the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is Alaska’s remote and rugged capital city. Accessible only by sea or air, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Indigenous heritage, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. Whether you’re chasing glaciers, spotting whales, or exploring gold rush history, Juneau is unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
📌 Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Alaska |
| Country | United States |
| Population | ~32,000 |
| Time Zone | AKST (UTC -9:00) / AKDT (UTC -8:00, DST) |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Nearest Airport | Juneau International Airport (JNU) |
| Languages | English, Tlingit (Indigenous language) |
| Climate | Subarctic – Cool summers, snowy winters |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
🧭 Top Attractions in Juneau
🧊 Mendenhall Glacier
One of Juneau’s most iconic sights — hike to the glacier, explore the visitor center, or kayak in the glacial lake nearby.
🐋 Whale Watching Tours
Juneau is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Tours run daily in season (May–September).
🛷 Mount Roberts Tramway
Ride the tramway to sweeping views over downtown Juneau and enjoy scenic hikes, Native carvings, and an alpine nature center.
⛏️ Last Chance Mining Museum
Step back into the gold rush era with exhibits on historic mining equipment and artifacts in the old Alaska-Juneau Mine building.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
Juneau may be small, but it’s full of bold Alaskan flavors:
- The Hangar on the Wharf – Classic seafood spot overlooking the water
- Deckhand Dave’s – Famous for fish tacos and halibut sandwiches
- Salt – Upscale dining with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients
- Heritage Coffee Roasting Co. – A local favorite for coffee and pastries
Don’t leave without trying wild salmon, halibut, or Alaskan king crab!
🏨 Where to Stay
From cozy lodges to historic downtown inns, Juneau offers charming places to stay:
- Silverbow Inn Hotel & Suites – Stylish downtown hotel with rooftop hot tub
- Pearson’s Pond Luxury Inn – Romantic, award-winning B&B near the glacier
- Four Points by Sheraton – Modern comfort near the harbor
- Cabins and vacation rentals – Great for longer stays or scenic privacy
🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Juneau’s shops offer a mix of artisan crafts, Indigenous art, and Alaskan specialties:
- Franklin Street Boutiques – Jewelry, furs, and handcrafted goods
- Alaska Shirt Company – Fun apparel and souvenirs
- Sealaska Heritage Store – Authentic Native art and gifts
- Local goods – Smoked salmon, birch syrup, and glacier silt soap
🧳 Travel Information
Getting There:
- 🛫 By air: Fly into Juneau International Airport from Anchorage, Seattle, or other Alaskan hubs
- 🚢 By sea: Arrive via cruise ship or Alaska Marine Highway ferry
- 🚗 Note: There are no roads into Juneau — it’s boat or plane only!
Getting Around:
- Rent a car or use local taxis
- Summer shuttle services to main tourist areas
- Many attractions are walkable from downtown
Safety Tip: Weather can change quickly — dress in layers and bring rain gear even in summer.
💡 Local Tips
- 🐻 Watch for bears on hiking trails — carry bear spray and stay alert
- 🐋 Book whale watching in advance during peak months (June–August)
- 🛶 Kayak tours offer a peaceful way to experience glacial lakes and coves
- 📸 Visit the glacier early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds