Overview
About Juneau
Juneau, Alaska’s remote capital, unfurls along the Gastineau Channel beneath towering peaks and the massive Mendenhall Glacier. Accessible only by air or sea, it blends frontier grit with cosmopolitan charm, offering whale watching, gold‑rush history, and a vibrant arts scene amid pristine wilderness.
Logistics
Practical info
Getting there & around
Juneau has no road connections to the rest of Alaska. The city relies on the Capital Transit bus system, taxis, rideshares, and a network of trails. Rental cars are useful for exploring the road system that ends at the glacier. The Alaska Marine Highway ferries link Juneau to other coastal communities.
Food & drink
Seafood dominates: wild salmon, halibut, king crab, and spot prawns. Waterfront restaurants serve fresh catches alongside craft breweries and distilleries. Don’t miss the local favorite – reindeer sausage – or a coffee at a downtown roaster.
Stay aware
Safety considerations
Juneau is generally safe. Exercise standard urban caution downtown after dark. In wilderness areas, carry bear spray, make noise on trails, and check weather forecasts. Glacier views can change rapidly; respect barriers and guided tour advice.