The capital city of Alaska and only accessible by boat or plane, Juneau is a beautiful blend of mountain, ocean, glacier, and forest. Tucked between the Coast Mountains and the Inside Passage, this misty city feels like a film set carved into the wilderness. Cruise ships line the bay in the summer, and locals stroll downtown with umbrellas in one hand and salmon tacos in the other.

Downtown Juneau is compact and walkable, with galleries, coffee shops, bookstores, and museums tucked between historic bars and government buildings. You might spot porpoises near the ferry terminal, ravens perched on lamp posts, or eagles soaring over Gastineau Channel.

Just 12 miles from town, Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most visited and photographed sites in Southeast Alaska. But the glacier is only the beginning. Whale watching, flightseeing, dog sledding on icefields, and rainforest hiking are just a few of the adventures that begin in Juneau.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a few days, Juneau is a moody, magical place that stays with you long after you leave — where rain falls softly on mossy rooftops and the mountains feel close enough to touch.

Did You Know?

• Juneau is the only U.S. capital that borders another country (Canada) and has no road access.

• Ravens are considered good luck in Tlingit culture and are commonly seen downtown.

• Mendenhall Glacier has been retreating 30–40 feet per year due to climate change.

• Juneau has more hiking trails per square mile than any other city in Alaska.