Click here to check pricing on helicopter tours to the ice field. 638. The visitor center at the top of Mount Roberts also offers short videos about Alaska Native culture and Juneau history. Theres also a nature center that points out local hiking trails, including an easy quarter-mile loop through the trees with an accompanying audio tour. You can also check out the local events on the community calendar here! Utah: July 5, 11, and 15. On Glacier Highway in Juneau you will find Eagle Beach. Each room in Alaskas Capital Inn Bed and Breakfast offers free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen cable TV, along with bath robes and slippers for guest comfort and soundproofing for privacy. Amalga Distillery 8. The six-minute tram ride gives you amazing views of the Gastineau Channel, Douglas Island and the city of Juneau. The week starts with the arrival of Tlingit war canoes and then the Celebration participants parade in regalia to the convention center where they perform throughout the festival. Across from the Alaska State Capital building, this Gold Era mansion has been restored and equipped with contemporary furnishings. Offering a unique blend of small-town vibes, and an abundance of activities a summer trip to Juneau can quickly turn into a lifetime stay. Many of the souvenirs include Alaska Native designs. We send expert travel tips & guides that save you money, stress & FOMO: TravelLemming.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Gold Creek Flume Trail is the one for you! This is a 1.4-mile point-to-point trail that connects two different parts of the downtown area. The Tour with Taste allows you to try eight different city establishments, including must-tries like Tracys Crab Shack and the Alaskan Bar, and newcomers like Deckhand Daves. The Alaska Historical Museums collection opened to the public in Juneaus Arctic Brotherhood Building in 1920. During this period, whale migration occurs, so you can be sure that you wont miss out on witnessing some remarkable activity in and around local waters. I have an entire list of places I recommend for where to stay in Juneau if you want even more options. Another great way to get to know a place is by discovering the flavors and foods you can enjoy there. For an unparalleled view of Alaskas mountainous and forested terrain, take the Aerial Tramway, located directly next to the cruise ship docks upon disembarkment. Theyll supply the captain, and the gear, and take you out fishing for Alaskan salmon and maybe even halibut. Its amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully.Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times.Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you havent missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort. See some of the old tools of Alaskan trades and learn the stories of the early Alaskans by visiting any of the three museums in town. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast, as well as Italian cuisine at the onsite restaurant, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options also available. The best time to take a trip to Juneau is from May until August. Sitka's 13K-passenger day was 'far too many,' mayor says At the heart of downtown Juneau, Front and Seward Streets is home to Heritage Square, the headquarters of Sealaska Heritage Institute. Youll want to bring a good raincoat, as youll be visiting a rainforest, but if youre dressed for the weather, youll have a fantastic time exploring all the many awesome things to do in Juneau, Alaska! 2022. There are displays of jewellry, photos on metal and traditional paintings. Prosecutors in Alaska, California, Florida and at least a dozen other states were beginning to pursue new murder cases against any defendant who fit under the wide-ranging definition of a fentanyl . Mount Roberts Trail 6. Your email address will not be published. Over 500 humpback whales make their way to Southeast Alaskas Inside Passage which is their home during the summer months. Besides supplying the most quintessentially Alaskan photography opportunity, youll also find hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and souvenir shopping available. Although Alaska does have larger, more famous, downhill ski resorts, like Alyeska, Juneaus Eaglecrest Ski Area provides the locals with the opportunity to downhill ski without having to leave town during the winter. Map It: 395 Whittier St, Juneau, AK 99801, United States | Phone: +1 907 465 2920 | Website | Hours: 10 am 4 pm daily, Closed every Weekends. I mentioned it already, but Douglas Island is a great option if youre looking for something a bit more off-beat to do in Juneau. The view up there is breathtaking so do not miss your chance to go! Map It: 101 Egan Dr, Juneau, AK 99801, United States | Phone: +1 907 463 3316 | Website. The available outdoor activities accommodate all levels of traveler. Here's how to spend one day in Juneau - and why to add extra time if you have it. Your journey begins with a short training session to learn how your body language works with your own personal Segway. The main thing is to get out of the city and spend some time in nature exerting yourself and reaping the benefits of the fresh mountain air. From the higher elevations, there are fantastic views of neighboring mountains, the Gastineau Channel, and downtown Juneau. If you want to experience it for yourself grab a brochure offered in its lobby for self-guided tours year-round. Dolphin and Whale Watching Source: EvelB / shutterstock Whale Watching, Juneau, Alaska Between April and September, you have the chance to these amazing sea creatures in their natural habitat. All rights reserved, Top Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska, in One Day, Glacier Point Face to Face With Davidson Glacier in Alaska. Nestled in the stunning natural beauty of Southeast Alaska, Juneau is a veritable feast for the senses. The wood has also been treated to reduce slipperiness on Juneaus (many) rainy days, but its still worth being cautious if youre hiking in the rain. The on-board naturalist will point out wild life such as whales, seals, bears, and eagles and binoculars will be provided. Food stamps: Payment dates for SNAP benefits in July 2023 There are few opportunities besides Celebration to fully immerse yourself in so many tribal cultures all at once. Alaskas capital city, the second-oldest city in the state (one day after Skagway! Find your next running challenge with one of our many summer races or get out and walk the hills with the locals on a berry walk. While I didnt have time on my short trip to Juneau in 2021, I have a few more hikes on my list for my next visit. The vibrant waterfront of Juneau during the summer is abuzz of activity. Youll be quite comfortable for an eight-hour sightseeing tour. Map It: 7600 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801, United States | Phone: +1 907 790 3377 | Website | Hours: 9 am 5 pm daily. New Mexico has recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday since 2006, observed on the third Saturday of June; it became a paid holiday for state workers for the first time in 2022. There are 280 different species of birds, brown and black bears, five different kinds of salmon, and whales in Juneau (primarily humpback and orca). Map It: 2697 Channel Dr, Juneau, AK 99801, United States | Phone: +1 907 463 5114 | Website. While most of the activities in Juneau are only available during the summer, there is still plenty to do during the winter. Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska: See Tripadvisor's 105,094 traveller reviews and photos of Juneau tourist attractions. Youll also see glaciers calve, and waterfalls running down the walls of of the fjord. Thank you! The most sought-after whales to spot are the migrating humpbacks and resident orcas. Exhibits are set into sections which showcase displays of fine art, topics including mining, fishing, forestry and tourism, and not to mention the Russian-American period, and World War Two. Even though the collection of books and artifacts expanded quickly, it took 20 years to find a permanent home for the collection. One of the tours will even take you uphill to where the downhill ski area runs during the winter! Home Travel Guides United States Alaska (AK) 15 Best Things to Do in Juneau (Alaska) by a Local (2023). If you are a beer lover, then you will really enjoy this place which you can find in east Juneau on Shaune Drive. Juneau, Alaska, changed its name twice from Gold Creek to Harrisburg to now Juneau. Which states recognize Juneteenth as an official holiday? | Pew 1. Let your eyes rise . I believe that I will get numerous unforgettable memories there. (Or buy a bundle of city guides and save!). Even if you only have one day, Juneau, Alaska has a lot of things to do. Things to do in Juneau Juneau Tours Mendenhall Glacier Are you interested in? Discover the people and places that make Juneau extraordinary every day. While there may be a lot of other travellers around, youll benefit from lots of daylight during this season. Pair this with the opportunity to see tons of glaciers, and youll probably tick off two items on your Alaska bucket list with one activity! Follow Fourth Street, which turns into Calhoun Avenue, to the Governors House, a liberal interpretation of New England colonial architecture built in 1912. Mount Roberts trail and tramway will help you to explore the mountain peak. Best Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska - YouTube Shop, Eat, and Drink in Juneaus Historic Downtown, While the Red Dog is the closest and only replica of a gold rush era saloon that exists today, there are several other bars, new brewing and distillery tasting rooms, and an up and coming, 6. There are shuttles that do the round trip for $45 per adult. The Jensen Olson Arboretum is located on the beachfront site of one of the old homestead families of Juneau. Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure takes you on a cart ride up a mountain on a dirt road. The tramway is operated by the Goldbelt Corporation, one of Juneaus Alaska Native corporations, and offers fantastic views on the five-minute ride that ascends 1,800 feet from sea level to see level. (Their clever expression not mine! Show more. It then discusses the territorial history of Alaska as well as more contemporary topics including tourism, the oil sector, and other topics. She lived in Toronto, Canada for about ten years, give or take, but she wasnt working with llamas. Im also a not-so-secret space nerd and speak fluent emoji! You will see a large beach in front of the falls and the glacier in the background. If you want to learn more about the history of the town and state, then this is a great place to start. Alaska ballot measure filed to set term limits for state legislators Both hiking trails along the shore will end at the Visitor Center. Ride to the Top of a Mountain at Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, 20. All this to say, you have lots of options if you have flightseeing in your budget for Alaska! Start at the Visitor Center for info about the glacier, a short video and overlook. The planes will then pick you up and return you to town, making this an incredible daytrip from Juneau. With a population of 728,903, this building serves as an important seat of state government. While I have a section toward the end of this post about places to eat and drink in Juneau, theres a great way to sample a bunch of them quickly and affordably: Juneau Food Tours. A fenced garden also showcases the vegetables that grow well in Southeast Alaska. Another popular activity at Mendenhall especially if youre booking a cruise excursion in Juneau is to get on the water of Mendenhall Lake by canoe or kayak, or to raft from the lake down Mendenhall River toward the Gastineau Channel. If you are planning on venturing out rent a car. They . The Ultimate Travel Guide to Juneau, Alaska. Awesome Things to Do and Eat in Juneau Alaska The owners have been really imaginative with their displays and you can expect tree art, flower towers and beautiful rainforest plants. Some say that Juneau itself is one big museum and when you visit you will see why. Even if you only have one day, Juneau, Alaska has a lot of things to do. Finally, visit the Elks Hall at 109 South Franklin, the original Territorial Capital in Alaska, and just next door the Pocket Park, now home to food trucks serving fish tacos, crepes, ice cream, and beer. Around the tram terminal, look for a sidewalk sundial and a memorial in memory of fishermen who perished at sea. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. If you do decide youd like a short hike once youre at the top, youll find a couple trails both above and below tree line. (Getty Images) Fairbanks is known as the "Golden Heart of Alaska" and one of the top places in the world to view the northern lights: Aurora chasers may want to visit the city during . Flightsee or Trek on the Juneau Icefield: This massive accumulation of ice and snow that stretches 85 miles north to south, and 45 miles east to westan area larger than the state of Rhode Island. The Last Chance Mining Museum in Last Chance Basin is housed in one of the few remaining historic buildings of the Alaska Juneau Gold Mining company. The division of state government that handles food stamps has made progress in . If you have your heart set on visiting Glacier Bay National Park but dont have the time for a cruise, flightseeing is also an option for that. View the iconic art at the Walter Soboleff Building and wander through a traditional hand-adzed cedar clan house or shop for authentic Native crafts. As the name suggests, this is the official museum for the state of Alaska, and the full collection houses some 40,000 artifacts and exhibits from pre-human history in The Last Frontier through modern-day arts and cultures. My blog posts likely contain affiliate links, including for the Amazon Associates program.If you click, book, or buy from one of these links, I may earn a commission. So, you have no excuse not to visit. Aside from the elevation gain you need to reach (or walk back from) the two trailheads, this is a completely flat trail as it follows the Gold Creek Flume that was once used to provide power to the city. One of the most spectacular excursions out of Juneau is a trip to the Taku Glacier Lodge with Wings Airways. It has also been home to people of all different cultures, many which still call it home. The Mount Roberts Tramway takes guests up 1,800 . Sitka's Lincoln Street on June 21, 2023. Every morning, a hot breakfast is available, with options like crab eggs benedict, Alaskan sourdough pancakes, and smoked bacon, as well as granola, juice, tea, and muffins. Some of my favorite buildings worth visiting include the Capitol and Governors Mansion (already mentioned), as well as the Wickersham State Historic Site (high atop the hill), Devils Club Brewing Company which is housed in an old theatre, and the Alaskan Hotel & Bar, one of oldest hotels in Alaska and the oldest operating hotel in Juneau. Depending on the tour, you may see the Mendenhall Glacier, beaches, and fields of flowers. Commence your exploration with the Juneau Voices tour, which are sound installations linked to street signs that reveal stories and memories shared by locals. Read more in my Privacy Policy. If more than a couple of people, taxies charge around $35 BUT also charge up to $17 per adult for the pass (which actually costs $5 if you rent a car and drive yourself. From its majestic mountains to its wondrous waters, it draws travellers from all over the world in search of adventure and excitement. Uber and Taxi operate in Juneau however, they can get quite pricey. West Virginia: July 1-9. Between April and September, you have the chance to these amazing sea creatures in their natural habitat. My friend Nicki has a good guide on hiking to the Mendenhall ice caves and I strongly recommend checking with the rangers at the visitor center before setting out, so you know what conditions to expect. Whether youre in town for just a few hours with a cruise ship, or youre visiting for longer, youll be at no loss for things to do in Juneau at any time of year, especially if youre outdoorsy. The most common whales youll spot in the waterways near Juneau are Humpbacks and Orcas, two iconic species commonly seen during the summer months. Home to Wyatt Earps gun from Nome, and a wide variety of stuffed critters and memorabilia, visitors should not miss the opportunity to sample the infamous Duck-Fart drink special. There are two National Park Service-approved concessioners offering flights over Glacier Bay: Alaska Seaplanes and Ward Air. Ive been to Juneau three times: once as a kid growing up in Alaska for a swim meet (we had to fly there! This loop-ish trail wanders through the forest to reveal some of the ruins of the Treadwell gold mine. Want to know more? 234. Juneau Alaska self driving tour ideas - Juneau Forum - Tripadvisor She doesn't know how she got that job as she has never done yoga at that point. Learn about the destination, nature and wildlife whilst exploring the interactive exhibits. Read on to discover the best things to do in Juneau more than you can fit into a single trip and get inspired for your own visit to the Alaskan capital. If you are looking for the best local food and a good spot for dinner, Deckhand Daves is a must! Heres our one-day in Juneau, Itinerary to help you pick the best ones! New data shows measurable progress on Alaska's food stamp backlog. There's a visitor's center, cafe, gift shop, museum and restaurant to enjoy. By robbyne2014. Wings Airways provides transportation with small planes to the airplane-only accessible lodge by the Taku Glacier. The ticket grants a whole-day admission, so those that are enthralled by the experience can make a return journey. Elizabeth is an Alaskan programmer and blogger at A Suitcase Full of Books. Some tours will supply you with gear and take you ice climbing in crevasses. Salmon were running and we were blessed with a black bear fishing in the creek. Looking for the best things to do in Juneau, Alaska? Mendenhall Glacier Tours 2 Tours & Activities Bus Tours 14 Tours & Activities Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises 51 Tours & Activities Why you are seeing these recommendations Reserve Now & Pay Later Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour 67 Reviews Juneau, United States 12 Best Things to Do in Juneau During an Alaska Cruise By Linda Garrison Updated on 10/10/21 TripSavvy / Linda Garrison Juneau is one of the most scenic state capitals in the U.S., and cruise ships sailing along Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage almost always include it as a port of call. The pass is included in the shuttle prices.) Backups are easing at U.S. airports thanks to a break in the weather, but travelers are still seeing large numbers of flight delays. All words and images 2013-2023 The Kolibro Group LLC. Although this fjord is one of the most famous attractions in Juneau it is actually located about 45 miles south of the city. Juneau, the current capital city of Alaska, was founded in 1880 by gold seekers. One of the most commonly asked questions about visiting Mendenhall Glacier is about how to visit the ice caves. Go Whale Watching Whale watching is not to be confused with watching Wales. Celebrate 'Voices of Alaska' this 4th of July - KINY Taste Alaskan Salmon without Fishing at the Salmon Bake, Several tour companies run various types of whale watching boats from a local harbor (, 15. Best of all, this museum is reasonably sized so its definitely something you can explore in its entirety in a 2-4 hour visit. Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. Every tour is almost guaranteed to find whales, seals, and porpoises. On the Trails: Cowee Meadows | Juneau Empire Its certainly a unique activity in Juneau! Alaska is famous for glaciers, and if you have time definitely take a tour of Mendenhall Glacier. There is also a discovery room where you can climb-aboard replica of an early sailing ship and offering activities for both children and adults. The garden landscape includes flowering trees, bushes, and local foliage among the flowers. When you first arrive in the center of downtown Juneau, stop walking. Inside the hatchery youll find a small aquarium where you can see halibut and other large Alaskan fish as well as starfish, anemones, and the smaller creatures found at low tides on the local beaches. What to do in Juneau on a Cruise Port Day - See Mama Travel Braving the tundra is worth it for the life-changing experiences it provides. There are plenty of options for accommodation in Juneau; I recommend staying near downtown so you can easily walk to all of the activities I recommend. You will be greeted by gusts of wind coming off Mendenhall Glacier, making you feel officially welcomed into the wilds of Alaska. At this brewery you can take a free tour and learn all about the brewery, the beers and the founders. All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Boat Tours & Water Sports Nature & Parks Sights & Landmarks Museums Fun & Games Nightlife Spas & Wellness Classes & Workshops Zoos & Aquariums Traveler rating & up & up Good for You will see bald eagles in their natural habitat both close up and in the distance. Mendenhall Glacier 2. By Thrillist Travel. If youre up for hiking a bunch during your visit, you might want to investigate the trails further from town as theyll be less crowded, but here are some of the trails close to downtown Juneau and on neighboring Douglas Island. Wisconsin: July 1-15. If youve got Juneau on your Alaska itinerary but youre not sure what there is to do, youve come to the right place. There is a designated Ice Cave Trail that runs some 6.1 miles out-and-back, but again, theres no guarantee of ice caves there when you reach the far end. Your email address will not be published. Members of Sitka's Tourism Task Force have learned that an early estimate of 9,700 cruise passengers may have been too low, with the actual number . There is also a resident bald eagle nest, so you may spot these magnificent creatures here too. Here are some of the top locations to see in Juneau in one day: Start Your Day at The Historic Downtown Thats three bucket list items ticked off on one tour! Flightseeing is a fantastic activity to splurge on in Alaska; it gives you a real sense of scale for just how big this state is. Obviously, there are lots of options good luck choosing! For a more moderate hike that departs from the same general area as Mount Roberts and Mount Juneau, the Perseverance Trail is a good candidate. Launch your journey from an isolated island and allow yourself the opportunity to witness humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and porpoises in their natural habitat. Good for a Rainy Day. Learn About the Salmon Industry at Douglas Island Pink And Chum (DIPAC) Hatchery, 13. You can order crab by the leg, try the delicious crab bisque, or go all in with an entire bucket. Do you happen to have any photos of different parts of downtown Juneau or is that the only main street there is? Here youll learn about the history of hard rock mining in Juneau and see some of the old tools. So, you have a very good chance of seeing these creatures at home on their very own island. the Shrine is a Catholic monument to alaskan and Indian history8 and represents great historical significance. For many, this may be the closest you will ever be able to get to the face of a glacier, 3. As an academic I can attest that it is the premier academic museum effort in Juneau, possibly all of Alaska. Located in the heart of Juneau, the Silverbow Inn Hotel & Suites provides guests with a host of comfortable amenities. Start the walk at the photo point trail, all the way around Mendenhall Lake to the waterfall. The Ultimate Travel Guide to Juneau, Alaska - Thrillist
Is Whole Life Insurance Taxable, Articles W