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You can’t miss this massive chunk of ice about 10 miles from Juneau. On the way to the nearby Nugget Falls, stop by Mendenhall Glacier for striking blues and enormous views. The backdrop of Mendenhall is filled with the 12-mile-long Juneau Icefield, which has shrunk over the years because of climate change. Take this opportunity to appreciate what makes Alaska what it is today.
Address: 6000 Glacier Spur Rd, Juneau, AK 99801
The towering fjord juts out from the water, dotted with trees and filled with animals running down its length, including bears, deer, moose, and various birds. If you are patient and have a keen eye, you might even spot a bald eagle, as well as aquatic wildlife around the fjord. This place is active during all the times of the year, but whales are most active during the warmer months.
Address: Tongass National Forest, Juneau, AK
Moving up to the show-stopping Nugget Falls, tourists are treated to a 377-foot-tall waterfall that cascades into Mendenhall Lake. Here, you can also catch another view of the previously mentioned Mendenhall Glacier. Tours run around the Falls with a mild hike that takes about an hour to enjoy all the great views and wildlife spotting.
Address: Mendenhall Trail, Juneau, AK
Don’t miss your opportunity to ride the aerial tram; it takes you right over the mountains and provides the best view of Juneau by far. You can hop on board at the dock in downtown Juneau, taking you to the Mountain House, where tourists can have fun at various attractions, like the Chilkat Theater or go on a hike on any of the many trails around the surrounding mountains.
Address: 490 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801
Okay, this next stop might sound a bit confusing, as a rainforest shouldn’t be located this far north of the equator, but it carries similar traits to what you would associate with a tropical one. This patch of forest is protected and mostly undisturbed by man. It contains numerous unique species in the area and a fascinating backstory, as told by the tour guides.
Address: 7600 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801
The history of Juneau is as diverse and captivating as the scenery itself. You can enter this museum for free at any time during off-season months. Inside, you will find information and exhibits that detail the native culture of the city of Juneau and its development since its founding. It is a short but interesting stop for any vacationer.
Address: 114 W 4th St, Juneau, AK 99801
This shrine welcomes anyone, not just those practicing faiths. Its architecture is magnificent and worth the trip if you like to go off the beaten path. The environment is very peaceful and soothing. Sit down and learn the story of St. Therese of Lisieux; it resonates with all of us.
Address: 21425 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801
This is another great quick stop in the city of Juneau. The State Capitol breaks the mold in that it is much humbler and more petite than what you would normally expect. It was built on a budget, so that’s why the building itself looks so modest when compared to other states. It fits perfectly with the personality of the city and its people.
Address: 120 4th St, Juneau, AK 99801
Beer is a fantastic way to warm you up on a frigid day—and in Alaska, there sure are many of those days. This famous brewing company christens its beer with the best water on Earth, straight from a glacier, and some local spruce tips to give it a unique blend of flavor. It is highly recommended that you tour this great place and sample some brews along the way.
Address: 5429 Shaune Dr, Juneau, AK 99801
This museum highlights the major gold rush era in American history. It houses the same tools and equipment used by the workers who mined during the 1900s. It may not sound exciting on paper, but some mammoth pieces of equipment have to be seen in person to truly appreciate what miners did back in the early days of Juneau.
Address: 1001 Basin Rd, Juneau, AK 99801