Get to know Juneau, America’s most scenic state capital. Nestled between towering mountains, lush temperate rainforests, thundering tidewater glaciers, and the pristine waters of the Inside Passage, Juneau, Alaska, is a destination for those seeking unforgettable, authentic experiences. Draw inspiration from the rich Alaska Native culture of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian, stewarding the land since time immemorial. Experience breaching whales, bears feasting on salmon, and the calls of bald eagles. Choose from 250-miles of hiking trails or enjoy the protected coastal waters offering world-class water sports, whale watching, and sportfishing. Juneau’s food scene showcases local ingredients and the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat made by award-winning chefs. From breathtaking landscapes and a rich Gold Rush history to exciting culinary adventures, wildlife viewing, and a rich arts scene, Juneau is a must-visit destination. Explore the highlights, seek off-the-beaten path gems, and rekindle the magic of travel and connection to nature.
1. What is your destination most known for?
We are often remembered for the Mendenhall Glacier/Nugget Falls, the Goldbelt Tram, and the amazing whale watching! While those are truly awesome, when you take a closer look, the breadth of choices for activities is staggering! That’s where Travel Juneau comes in. Our office answers tons of calls and emails helping people dial in what activities to match their interests. The best part of a longer stay is that you can see the highlights but customize your trip to make it really “yours”. We are also a great hub for other activities in Southeast Alaska like trips into Glacier Bay National Park, visiting small communities connected by bush planes or fast ferry, and access to treasures like Admiralty Island which is home to more brown bear than anywhere else in the world per square mile!
2. During this season, what are some must-see attractions?
Every season is special but this time of year the whale watching and hiking are off the hook. Flightseeing and glacier viewing are top notch as well. It may rain during your visit but we are in the middle of the world’s largest temperate rainforest, the Tongass National Forest. That can be helpful when photographing the glaciers because they appear bluer under some cloud cover. Locals often say, “There is no bad weather, just bad gear.”
3. What hidden gem should not be missed when visiting your destination?
We have so many awe-inspiring and dramatic views and adventures for everyone of all abilities! When my friends are in town, I take them to the Walter Soboleff Building and the Sealaska Heritage Institute so they can take in the monumental art and the incredible hand-adzed clan house as well as learn about the Alaska Native culture. It’s a living culture and it permeates everything about this town whether you realize it or not. I’m still learning about it every day!
The other thing I do is take people for a drive “out-the-road”. We have one main road and it’s 48 miles from end to end. You can’t drive here – you can only arrive by boat or plane. So going “out-the-road” is a thing! Locals love to drive out past the ferry terminal where the road runs the coastline. There are scenic viewpoints the entire way and the chances of wildlife are high. We hike (over 250-miles of trails), pick berries, picnic, camp, and just generally appreciate the beauty of where we live. We are definitely living it up in the outdoors all year round.
4. What’s one feature that can’t be missed when visiting your website?
It’s hard to choose one thing, but I’d start by saying that you can order your Official Juneau Travel Planner! We’ll send it free to folks domestically and in Canada. It’s chock full of information to help plan your trip to Juneau so you don’t miss anything! In case folks live outside of those areas, it’s also available online.
The other thing I’d mention is our blog. It’s not updated as frequently as I’d like but it has a mix of timely information and answers a lot of frequently asked questions like, “How to Pack.” Additionally, you’ll find seasonal posts that offer insight into what life is like here in Juneau for locals – what we do in the winter, how fireweed signals the end of summer, what “termination dust” is, and other interesting tidbits. It’s just a little something extra for those that are interested in learning more about us.
5. How did you learn about NATJA and why did you join?
I love working with writers and media of all kinds. I’ve spent over 30 years doing so and I understand deadlines, last minute requests, and the machinations that go on behind the story. The landscape of media has changed tremendously since I got started in public relations and marketing, so I keep learning every day. When I saw there was an organization for writers and that we could connect and support the writing community, I wanted to be a part of that. We can always learn something from each other.
6. Is there anything else you feel travel media should know about your destination?
We are a small town of 32,000 people. Our community here is built on resilience and self-reliance. Juneau is not just a destination or a port-of-call, but it’s our home that we are sharing with guests. Visiting offers a one-of-a-kind journey that stays with you forever and offers insights and connections in ways that you may not have expected. That’s why we encourage people to come stay a while and discover something new in the world and in yourself!
