Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is a beautiful and vibrant city nestled amidst stunning natural beauty. With its towering mountains, pristine glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Juneau offers visitors an unforgettable travel experience. If you’re planning a trip to Juneau in June 2024, here are eight amazing places you should definitely visit:
Juneau is a city that is steeped in culture and history. The Tlingit people have lived in the area for thousands of years, and their culture is still very much alive in Juneau today. There are several museums and cultural centers in the city where you can learn about Tlingit history and culture. You can also visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, which is a living museum that showcases the cultures of all the indigenous peoples of Alaska.
Juneau is a great place to visit any time of year, but the best time to visit is during the summer months. The weather is mild and pleasant, and the days are long. This gives you plenty of time to explore the city and its surroundings. There are also several festivals and events held in Juneau during the summer, so you’re sure to find something to keep you entertained.
Getting to Juneau is easy. The city is served by the Juneau International Airport, which has regular flights from Seattle, Vancouver, and other major cities. You can also take a ferry to Juneau from Bellingham, Washington, or from other cities in Alaska.
Once you’re in Juneau, you’ll find that there are plenty of ways to get around. The city has a good public transportation system, and there are also several taxi and ride-sharing services available. You can also rent a car if you want to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
Juneau is a great place to try some of Alaska’s famous seafood. There are several restaurants in the city that serve fresh seafood dishes, including salmon, halibut, and crab. You can also find a variety of other cuisines in Juneau, including American, Italian, and Asian.
1. Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Juneau. This massive glacier is located just 13 miles from the city center, and it’s easily accessible by car or bus. You can take a guided tour of the glacier, or you can simply hike around the area and enjoy the stunning views.
2. Whale Watching
Juneau is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. There are several companies that offer whale watching tours, and you’re almost guaranteed to see whales during your trip. You may see humpback whales, killer whales, gray whales, or minke whales. The tours provide essential information, including the types of whales you may encounter and their unique characteristics.
3. Mount Roberts Tramway
The Mount Roberts Tramway is a must-do for any visitor to Juneau. This aerial tramway takes you to the top of Mount Roberts, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city, the surrounding mountains, and the Gastineau Channel. There’s also a restaurant at the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the scenery.
4. Alaska State Museum
The Alaska State Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Alaska. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Gold Rush era, Native American art, and natural history specimens. You can also learn about the state’s role in World War II and the Cold War.
5. Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure is a beautiful botanical garden located just outside of Juneau. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including many that are native to Alaska. You can also take a guided tour of the garden, or you can simply wander around and enjoy the scenery. And if you’re lucky, you’ll spot some of the local wildlife, such as bears, eagles, and whales.
6. Tracy Arm Fjord
Tracy Arm Fjord is a stunning fjord located about 50 miles north of Juneau. The fjord is surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, and it’s home to a variety of wildlife, including whales, seals, and sea lions. Tours from Juneau offer a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder.
7. Juneau-Douglas City Museum
The Juneau-Douglas City Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Juneau. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Gold Rush era, mining equipment, and photographs of early Juneau. You can also learn about the city’s role in World War II and the Cold War.
8. Eaglecrest Ski Area
Eaglecrest Ski Area is a great place to go skiing or snowboarding in the winter. The ski area has a variety of trails for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. There’s also a terrain park, where you can practice your tricks. Once the snow melts, Eaglecrest offers mountain biking, hiking, and scenic gondola rides during the summer months.