Alaska’s capitol city, Juneau is located in the Southeast, right in the midst of the Tongess National Forest. This is the most temperate rainforest in North America, which makes for moderate weather throughout the year and little of the snow and cold one might anticipate when traveling to the 49th state. Juneau is a land-locked town and is only accessible via air or boat-there is no road in or out of the city. It is a 2 hour flight from Seattle or a 90 minute flight from the city of Anchorage.

Like many of Alaska’s towns, Juneau started as an Indian village. Known as Auk Village, it was the winter home to Tlingit Indians, who enjoyed the milder weather and sandy beaches. Today this waterfront town has a surprisingly cosmopolitan edge and boasts a wide array of activities, restaurants and five star accommodations. A major cruise ship port, tourism has become an important part of Juneau’s economy. Visitors will find something to suit every interest, from hiking and glacier viewing to shopping and museums.

Shore excursions include helicopter and dog sled tours of the Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most accessible and popular glaciers in Alaska. Tours take visitors directly onto the glacier ice, giving them the chance to explore this natural wonder up close and personal. Outings via the Mt. Roberts Tramway will take guests up 1,800 feet over the city, where they then have the choice of a hike through the rain forest or a relaxing meal at the Timberline Bar & Grill, which is in the tram complex. Museums such as the Alaska State Museum and the Juneau-Douglas City Museum provide an overview of the history of Juneau and its surrounding areas, and a walk through downtown offers plenty of shopping and dining, as well as historical landmarks such as the Alaska State Capitol and the evergreen cemetery. If you don’t care to walk, the Juneau Trolley Car Company conducts narrated tours through the city, with stops for shopping sightseeing.

Accommodations are extensive and most are close to local amenities and scenic viewpoints, with mainstream hotels, quaint inns, or bed and breakfasts as options. Local transportation includes taxi and shuttle services, as well as car rental agencies.

Additional Juneau Alaska cruise information:

• Juneau Convention & Visitors Bureau
Official site for the Juneau Convention & Visitors Bureau. The site has a great deal of information on Juneau including local tours and attractions.
http://www.traveljuneau.com/