Juneau Travel Guide

Juneau is the capital city of Alaska. It may not seem like a typical travel destination but a visit here is incredibly rewarding. The city acts as a good jump-off point for a wider Alaskan expedition and exploration of the USA’s northernmost state. The landscape here is truly unique -- Juneau borders both an ice field and the sea. Outdoorsy types, mountaineers, and hiking aficionados will love the opportunities available to immerse themselves in nature and explore the glacial terrain.

Things to Do in Juneau

The best thing to do in Juneau is to visit the Mendenhall Glacier. This is the city’s most famous tourist attraction. The Mendenhall Glacier is to Juneau, what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. The Mendenhall Glacier is a 13-mile long glacier that borders a frozen lake. The exhibition center here provides a fascinating insight into glaciers and the risk of climate change. There are also several hiking trails that lead you around the glacier -- including the Nugget Falls trail which leads visitors past ice fields and spectacular waterfalls. If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of mountain goats and other wildlife. For excellent views of Juneau, ride the Mt Roberts Tramway -- a cable car that takes you to the picturesque Mt Roberts alpine area.

Best Places to Stay in Juneau

The best places to stay in Juneau depend on your travel itinerary and personal preferences. Downtown Juneau makes a good base and its main strip is filled with local eateries, coffee shops and bric-a-brac stores. If you want to get back to nature, Douglas Island is a good place to stay in Juneau. From here, you can opt for a country cabin-style hotel, an RV park or a campground. The best part of camping is that you can enjoy a stunning backdrop of rugged mountains and glaciers every day as you sip your morning coffee.

Best Time to Visit Juneau

The best time to visit Juneau is between May and August. During this time, temperatures are the most pleasant.