One thing that I hear from a lot of travelers is that they want to have a “different experience than everyone else” – but they also want to do the things that their friends / family recommends when they head to Alaska. You can see why this might be tough to accommodate, huh?
Awhile ago, someone reached out to me about places that I would recommend in Juneau, Alaska that were slightly off of the beaten path. Yesterday, I came across my initial response and thought I’d share it in case it’s helpful. Take a look at a few of my recommendations – what do you think? Have anything to add?
Things to do in Juneau
1. What are some of your favorite things to do that you’d recommend?
- Tracy Arm Fjord: About 50 miles southeast of Juneau is Tracy Arm Fjord. Take a day boat trip to the mountainous area and be prepared to see seals, rams (high on the mountain), and possibly whales. During the excursion, you will see several icebergs and the Tracy Arm Glacier. Depending on the day, you may witness the glacier calving.
- Salmon Fishing at Point Louisa: During the later months of the Summer and into the Fall, Pink and Silver (Coho) salmon swim by Point Louisa. Cast your fishing line to the west side of the point. Often times you will see the salmon jumping out of the water. Keep your eyes open as whales often breech in the area.
- Hiking behind Mendenhall Glacier – West Glacier Trail: If you’re feeling adventurous, hike the West Glacier trail. There is a bit of elevation change and loose rock but the vistas are well worth the climb. You will overlook the Mendenhall Glacier and see several waterfalls along the way.
2. Where do you recommend staying (which neighborhood, hotel, airbnb, etc..)?
- General Area / Neighborhood – Auke Bay: Most cruise lines stop in the downtown Juneau area. While there are several shops and restaurants there, you may be looking for an area off of the beaten path. Consider hanging out with a few of the locals around the Auke Bay marina.
- Mendenhall Lake Campground: Nestled at the bottom of the Mendenhall Glacier Lake, the Mendenhall Campground offers seclusion, hot showers, and several trails. Get up early to see the sunrise over the lake and glacier.
- Pearson’s Pond: This luxury style inn combines a great night sleep with spa amenities. After a long day of hiking, fishing and taking-in Alaska, relax in the hot tub or take advantage of their massage treatments.
3. What do you recommend eating (what dishes, which restaurants)?
- Red Dog Saloon: Stopping in at the Red Dog Saloon is a must when visiting Juneau. Take in the eccentric wall décor and feel the wood chips underneath your feet. They have a diverse menu so if you are looking for comfort food, try their Reindeer Sausage Corndog or their Alaskan Sockeye Salmon.
- Alaska Brewing Company: If you are from the East coast, tasting an Alaskan Amber will probably be a new experience for you! Why not stop by the Alaska Brewing Company to taste their other Alaskan brews? Located about 5 miles outside of the downtown area, they offer a round trip shuttle from the downtown area during the summer months.
4. Are you a local?
My husband and I have been traveling to Juneau, Alaska for quite a few years. While we are not ‘full time’ locals, we visit so often that we feel like we are.
5. Any additional insight or comments?
Juneau is a place full of unpredictable surprises. Baby bear cubs chasing each other, eagles soaring high above the trees, and gigantic whales breeching. Some of the most magnificent wildlife and landscapes exist here in addition to world-class halibut and salmon fishing. While it may take a bit of travel time to get to Juneau, you will leave with a priceless experience. No matter when you visit.
6. Finally, when would you recommend someone going to Juneau?
The best time to visit Juneau is during the beautiful summer months (May June July Aug) when the grass is green and there’s abundant wildlife. If you are a serious angler, make sure you double check the salmon fishing runs before booking your stay.