Most Alaska cruises include a stop in Juneau for the day, but many people do not realize how much Juneau has to offer as a stand alone destination. Although a very small city, Juneau offers a variety of things to do, good shopping, and great dining options. There are museums, salmon and halibut fishing charters, zip lining, and whale watching trips that are all popular options with cruise ship visitors. If you have some additional time, there are some great finds in Juneau.
Must See Attractions
Mt. Roberts Tramway
Travel up 1800 feet to Mount Roberts which offers spectacular views of the Juneau area. Spend a couple hours or a whole day checking out the number of available hiking trails. For the non-hikers, there is a Bald Eagle and nature center, bear viewing platforms, and even a restaurant atop the mountain.
Mendenhall Glacier
Ever thought of living by a glacier? In Juneau, you can! About 13 miles from downtown is the Mendenhall Glacier, which is visible from the road itself, or you can stop by the visitor center for a closer view. Tour companies offer fly over and land on options, and there is even a dog sledding option available for the more adventurous types.
Tracy Arm Fjord and Sawyer Glacier
If you only have one day in Juneau, keep this trip in consideration. It is a full day adventure that will take you through the beautiful Tracy Arm Fjord, by waterfalls, and alongside icebergs rivaling those found in Glacier Bay National Park. The end destination is the Sawyer Glacier which is absolutely breathtaking and if luck is on your side, a little glacier calving might be in store. Keep your eyes peeled on the small icebergs for the seals that tend to hang out there. On the trip back, your lucky streak could continue and you might be treated to a mountain goat or Orca sighting. While the Orca whales and mountain goats sightings are never a guarantee, humpback whales and bald eagles are usually a sure thing.
Alaskan Brewing Company
For beer lovers, Juneau is home to the popular Alaskan Brewing Company that produces such favorites as Alaskan Amber, Winter, and Summer Ales. If not for their beer, people often remember them for their colorful and Alaskan representative bottle designs. Tours and complimentary tastings are available year round.
Shopping
Downtown Juneau is a cute waterfront area filled with tourist shops offering t-shirts, jewelry, and Juneau keepsakes. Local artists sell beautifully carved totem poles and handmade wind catchers, and canneries feature local seafood, which is a must have if you happen to be a seafood fan.
Dining
A popular hang out with the locals, Hangar on the Wharf is Juneau’s only true waterfront restaurant, featuring great views of the Gastineau Channel and Douglas Island. Aside from their incredible halibut tacos and beer battered halibut and chips, they have a great selection of micro brews on tap. The same parent company, Twisted Fish, is a great choice for fine dining. Enjoy the aroma of fresh garlic knots as soon as you set foot inside. Try the salmon in a puff pastry which is stuffed with crab meat, bay shrimp, and seasoned cream cheese. If you have a little room left over, make sure to stop by the Heritage Coffee Company for a great java fix.
After a day of sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying local seafood, many find it hard to get back on the ship and leave behind the beautiful and quaint charm of Juneau. I was fortunate to spend five days exploring the area and meeting many local people who are passionate about their city and the gorgeous scenery that surrounds them. Although the typical tourist season is May through September, there are still many activities available in the winter months, making Juneau a worthwhile stop on any Alaska vacation.
