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Excitedly Discover the Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Juno, Alaska!
Are you looking for a unique vacation destination that’s off the beaten path? Consider Juneau, Alaska! This charming city is full of natural beauty, cultural insights, and urban delights that will make your trip unforgettable.
One of the biggest draws of Juneau is its stunning natural scenery. From glaciers to fjords to mountains, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to explore. Whether you’re hiking through the Tongass National Forest or taking a helicopter tour of the Juneau Icefield, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most beautiful wilderness in the world.
But Juneau isn’t just about outdoor adventures. The city also has a rich history and culture that’s worth exploring. From the Alaska State Museum to the Tlingit Heritage Center, you can learn about the region’s native peoples and their traditions. And if you’re in the mood for some urban fun, Juneau has plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep you entertained. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Juneau!
Key Takeaways
- Juneau is a unique and exciting vacation destination with natural beauty, cultural insights, and urban delights.
- The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes like glaciers, fjords, and mountains.
- Juneau also has a rich history and culture that’s worth exploring, and plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep you entertained.
The Natural Beauty of Juneau
As you explore Juneau, you’ll quickly discover that it’s a nature lover’s paradise. With stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and an abundance of wildlife, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Here are some of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Juneau:
Glaciers and Mountains
One of the highlights of any trip to Juneau is the chance to see its magnificent glaciers up close. The Mendenhall Glacier, located just 12 miles from downtown, is a must-see. You can hike to the glacier, take a guided tour, or simply admire it from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier Bay National Park are also popular destinations for glacier viewing.
In addition to glaciers, Juneau is home to some of the most stunning mountains in the world. The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States and offers endless opportunities for hiking and exploring. You can also take a helicopter tour to get a bird’s eye view of the rugged landscape.
Wildlife Spotting
Juneau is home to an incredible array of wildlife, from seals and sea lions to moose and grizzly bears. You can take a whale watching tour to see humpback whales up close, or head to the coastline to spot sea otters and harbor seals. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a wolf or a bald eagle.
Hiking Trails and Adventure
For those who love to hike and explore, Juneau is a paradise. There are countless hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The Perseverance Trail is a popular option, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding wilderness. If you’re looking for a more remote adventure, consider a multi-day trek through the Tongass National Forest or a climb up one of the nearby mountains.
No matter what your interests are, Juneau has something to offer. With its pristine lakes, rivers, and forests, it’s easy to see why this city is a natural wonderland. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the beauty of Juneau for yourself.
Exploring Juneau by Boat or Plane
If you’re looking for an exciting way to explore Juneau, there are plenty of options available to you by boat or plane. Whether you want to take a leisurely cruise or an exhilarating flightseeing adventure, there’s something for everyone.
Cruise Experiences
One of the most popular ways to explore Juneau is by taking a cruise. Cruise ships typically dock in the city’s harbor and offer a variety of shore excursions. You can take a boat tour to see the Mendenhall Glacier, go whale watching, or even spot sea lions and other marine life. Many cruises also offer tours of the fjords and icebergs in the area, giving you a chance to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in Alaska.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you might consider taking a rafting trip down one of the nearby rivers. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the area. You might even spot some wildlife along the way!
Flightseeing Adventures
For those who want to see Juneau from the air, there are plenty of flightseeing tours available. These tours typically take you on a small plane or helicopter ride over the city and surrounding areas. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Mendenhall Glacier, the Inside Passage, and even some of the nearby islands.
Flightseeing tours are also a great way to go whale watching or see orcas in their natural habitat. You might even get a chance to see some of the local fishing boats in action!
No matter how you choose to explore Juneau, there’s no doubt that you’ll have an unforgettable adventure. So why not book your boat or plane tour today and start exploring this amazing city?
Cultural and Historical Insights
Juno, Alaska is a city with a rich cultural and historical background that is worth exploring. Here are some insights on the best cultural and historical places to visit in Juno.
Museums and Galleries
Juno is home to some of the most fascinating museums and galleries in the world. The Alaska State Museum is a great place to start your cultural exploration. It features a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and artwork that showcase the state’s history and culture. You will learn about the Gold Rush, Alaska Native cultures, and much more.
The Museum of the North is another must-visit destination in Juno. It is located at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and houses an impressive collection of art, history, and science exhibits. You will be amazed by the displays of ancient fossils, native Alaskan artifacts, and contemporary art.
Historical Landmarks
Juno is also home to several historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The Gold Rush played a significant role in shaping Juno’s history, and you can learn more about it by visiting the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. It is a great place to explore the history of the Gold Rush and the impact it had on Juno.
The State Capital building is another landmark that is worth visiting. It is a beautiful building that showcases the city’s political history. You can take a narrated tour of the building and learn about the state’s governance and history.
The Sealaska Heritage Institute is another historical landmark that offers insights into the city’s native culture. It is a great place to learn about the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures. You can explore the exhibits, watch cultural performances, and participate in workshops.
In conclusion, Juno has a lot to offer when it comes to cultural and historical exploration. Whether you are interested in museums, galleries, or historical landmarks, you will find plenty to see and do in Juno.
Juneau’s Urban Delights
If you’re looking for a taste of city life, Juneau has plenty of urban delights to offer. From downtown shopping to restaurant and bars, there’s always something to do in this bustling city.
Downtown Juneau
Downtown Juneau is the heart of the city, and it’s the perfect place to start your urban adventure. Take a stroll down South Franklin Street and explore the many art galleries and gift shops. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to Alaskan souvenirs.
For a taste of history, head to the Alaska State Museum, where you can learn about the state’s native cultures and its gold rush history. And if you’re looking for a little bit of nature, head to the waterfront and take in the stunning views of Gastineau Channel.
Restaurant and Bars
When it comes to dining and drinking, Juneau has plenty of options to choose from. For a taste of local Alaskan cuisine, head to The Rookery Cafe or Salt. Both restaurants offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a cozy atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a drink, head to the Red Dog Saloon. This historic bar has been serving up drinks since the gold rush days, and it’s a must-visit for any traveler to Juneau. And for a stunning view of the city, head to the top of Mount Roberts Tramway and grab a drink at the Timberline Bar and Grill.
Shopping
Juneau is home to a variety of shops and boutiques, and there’s something for everyone. For outdoor enthusiasts, head to Foggy Mountain Shop, where you can find everything you need for camping and hiking. And for the fashion-forward traveler, head to Shoefly Alaska or Kindred Post.
If you’re looking for souvenirs and gifts, head to Alaska-Juneau Mining Company or Annie Kaill’s. Both shops offer a variety of Alaskan-made gifts and souvenirs that are perfect for taking home with you.
No matter what time of year you visit Juneau, there’s always something to do and see in this vibrant city. So grab your friends and family and head out to explore all the urban delights that Juneau has to offer!
Other Notable Attractions
Juno, Alaska is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, but there are also some other notable attractions worth checking out during your visit.
Totem Poles
Juno is home to several impressive totem poles, which are intricately carved wooden sculptures that depict stories and legends of the indigenous Tlingit people. You can see these totem poles at various locations around the city, including the Alaska State Museum and the Totem Bight State Historical Park.
Anchorage
While Anchorage is not technically in Juno, it is a popular destination for visitors to Alaska. Anchorage is the largest city in the state and offers a range of attractions, including museums, art galleries, and restaurants. You can also take a day trip from Anchorage to explore nearby attractions such as Denali National Park and Preserve.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a popular activity in Juno, and there are several companies that offer guided tours of the area’s waterways. You can paddle through calm bays and fjords, and even get up close to glaciers and wildlife.
Denali National Park and Preserve
Although Denali National Park and Preserve is not located in Juno, it is worth a visit if you have the time. The park is home to North America’s highest peak, Denali, and offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. You can hike, camp, and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Hubbard Glacier
The Hubbard Glacier is one of the largest and most active glaciers in Alaska, and it is located near Juno. You can take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier and witness the calving of icebergs into the water below.
Seward
Seward is a small town located about two hours from Juno, but it is worth a visit if you have the time. The town is situated on the coast and offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can see glaciers, wildlife, and stunning scenery.
Established Attractions
Finally, there are several established attractions in Juno that are worth checking out, including the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, the Alaska State Capitol Building, and the Juneau-Douglas City Museum. These attractions offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the area, and are a great way to spend a day exploring the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-see glaciers near Juneau?
Juneau is known for its stunning glaciers, and there are a few that you definitely don’t want to miss. The Mendenhall Glacier, located just 13 miles from downtown Juneau, is a popular spot for visitors. You can hike to the glacier or take a helicopter tour to see it from above. The Tracy Arm Fjord is another must-see glacier. It’s a bit further from Juneau, but the stunning scenery is worth the trip.
What are the top activities to do in downtown Juneau?
Downtown Juneau has plenty of activities to keep you busy. You can take a walking tour of the historic district, visit the Alaska State Museum, or check out the local shops and restaurants. The Red Dog Saloon is a popular spot for drinks and live music, and the Alaska State Capitol building is a beautiful landmark that’s worth a visit.
Where can I find the best seafood in Juneau?
Juneau is famous for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Tracy’s King Crab Shack is a popular spot for crab legs and chowder, and Salt is known for its creative seafood dishes. The Hangar on the Wharf is another great option, with a menu that includes everything from fish and chips to sushi.
What are some unique non-touristy things to do in Juneau?
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, there are plenty of unique activities to try in Juneau. You can take a guided hike through the rainforest, go kayaking in the Gastineau Channel, or visit the Shrine of St. Therese, a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the water. The Juneau Symphony and Perseverance Theatre are also great options for culture lovers.
What makes Juneau, Alaska a great place to visit?
Juneau is a unique destination that offers something for everyone. The stunning natural scenery is a big draw, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The city also has a rich history and culture, with plenty of museums, galleries, and historic landmarks to explore. And of course, the fresh seafood and local beer are not to be missed.
What is the best time of year to visit Juneau for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Juneau for outdoor activities is during the summer months, from May to September. This is when the weather is the warmest and driest, making it ideal for hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures. Keep in mind that summer is also the busiest tourist season, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
