In Juneau
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Juneau is a must-visit city. You’ll find trails for all abilities at the Juneau Convention and Visitors Bureau, ranging from easy to challenging. The city’s natural beauty is another plus. Zip lining is another popular adventure activity that will get you up close to nature, while a fun educational tour will give you an insight into the local wildlife.
If you’d like to see whales, there are several different whale watching options in Juneau. You can choose from a half-day or a daylong trip. Though you can’t always be sure to see whales, it is possible to see fin whales, humpback whales, and even orcas. Other wildlife you might encounter on these excursions includes harbor seals, sea lions, and a variety of sea birds.
Downtown Juneau has several great options for dining. The Hangar on the Wharf is a popular local hangout, and the Rookery offers daily menus and reservations. For a casual meal, try the Duck Fart at the Red Dog Saloon. The floor is covered with sawdust, which gives it a classic Northern Exposure feel.
Helicopter tours are also a popular activity in Juneau. From the air, you can see glaciers up close or touch them down for a more up-close experience. Some tours also allow you to walk on the ice or climb into ice caves. No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, Juneau will have a tour to suit your needs.
The city is also home to a number of state offices, a busy cruise port, and numerous museums. It was founded on gold creek in the 1880s, and many of the abandoned mines are now museums. Juneau is an excellent base to explore the glacier-draped fjords, the wilderness of the Tongass National Forest, and the scenic beauty of the Panhandle.
While you’re in Juneau, you should visit the Alaska State Capital Building. You can tour the state capital from May through mid-September. Self-guided tours are also available year-round. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about Alaska’s history. In addition to learning about Alaska, you can learn about the state’s government.
Juneau is home to a number of glaciers, including Mendenhall Glacier, which spans thirteen miles. Hiking on this glacier provides some of the best views of the Alaskan landscape. The glacier is also a popular attraction for people, and many tour operators guarantee sightings of humpback whales during your stay.
The Juneau-Douglas Museum is another interesting place to visit if you’re a history buff. It offers an interesting look at early Alaska’s mining history and has interactive exhibits that give visitors a hands-on experience. Another great museum to visit is the Last Chance Mining Museum, which is located in a former mining building. The museum features authentic mining equipment and artifacts from the Alaskan Gold Rush. While the museum is a bit off the beaten path, it’s well worth the trip.
There are a number of places to go skiing and snowboarding in Juneau. Eaglecrest Ski Area is 12 miles from downtown Juneau. It features a diverse terrain with over 640 acres of skiable terrain. The ski area also offers rental ski equipment and specializes in teaching beginners. It also offers classes for those transitioning from skiing to snowboarding.