Alaska's capital, isolated from the contiguous US, sits on Gastineau Channel. This small city of 31,000 is surrounded by mountains and glaciers, popular for fishing and hiking.
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a city set between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel. As the only U.S. state capital inaccessible by road, Juneau offers visitors a chance to experience Alaska's wilderness up close. You can walk on the Mendenhall Glacier, watch humpback whales breach in nearby waters, or ascend Mount Roberts by tram. Downtown Juneau's compact area features Gold Rush-era buildings alongside modern government offices, telling the story of the city's past and present.
Getting to Juneau
You can reach Juneau only by plane or boat. Most visitors arrive via cruise ship during the summer months, while year-round residents and other travelers typically fly in. The Alaska Marine Highway System connects Juneau to other coastal communities via ferry. This limited access has shaped Juneau's community, creating a place where locals know each other well and visitors often feel welcomed into the fold.
Natural Wonders
The Mendenhall Glacier, located just 13 miles from downtown, is a major draw for visitors. You can hike to waterfalls, spot black bears fishing for salmon, and see the massive ice formation up close. For a closer look at the glacial landscape, you can take a helicopter tour to land on the Juneau Icefield.
From May to September, whale watching becomes a popular activity. Humpback whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters of the Inside Passage, often displaying behaviors like breaching and bubble-net feeding. During these excursions, you might also see orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles.
Exploring Downtown
You can easily walk through Juneau's compact downtown area. The Alaska State Capitol building offers free tours, providing insight into the state's political workings. Nearby, the Alaska State Museum houses a collection of Native Alaskan artifacts and natural history exhibits that tell the story of the region's past and present.
For a view of the city from above, you can ride the Mount Roberts Tramway. At the top, you'll find hiking trails, a nature center, and a restaurant overlooking the Gastineau Channel and surrounding mountains.
Tlingit Culture
Juneau sits on the traditional lands of the Tlingit people. At the Sealaska Heritage Institute, you can view traditional and contemporary art, learn about Tlingit history, and sometimes watch performances of Native dance and music.
Local Cuisine
Juneau's food scene centers around fresh seafood. You can try king crab at Tracy's King Crab Shack, a local favorite, or sample halibut, salmon, and other local catches at one of the many restaurants downtown. For a memorable Alaskan meal, you can attend a salmon bake where wild-caught salmon is grilled over an alderwood fire.
Weather and Timing Your Visit
Juneau's weather is mild compared to interior Alaska, but it's also one of the wettest cities in the United States. Summer temperatures average in the 60s Fahrenheit, while winter hovers around freezing. The period from May to September typically has long days and less rainfall. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more visitors.
