When you think of Alaska, you frequently think of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and dogsleds. But did you know that Alaska is also home to an exciting city? Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is a vibrant and beautiful town with plenty to offer visitors. In August, the weather in Juneau is mild and sunny, making it the perfect time to explore all this city has to offer. Additionally, there are many festivals and events held in Juneau during August, making sure you’ll have plenty to do. Here are seven awe-inspiring things you can do in Juneau for August 2024:
1. Visit the Mendenhall Glacier
The Mendenhall Glacier is a stunning glacier located just outside Juneau. The glacier is over 13 miles long and a half-mile wide, and it’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. You can take a guided tour of the glacier, or you can hike up to the glacier yourself. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go kayaking or rafting on the glacier lake. No matter how you choose to experience it, the Mendenhall Glacier will awe you with its beauty.
2. Go whale watching
Juneau is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. The waters around Juneau are home to a variety of whales, including humpback whales, killer whales, and gray whales. There are several different whale watching companies in Juneau, and they offer a variety of tours to choose from. You can take a short whale-watching tour or a longer tour that includes a visit to a glacier. No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to see plenty of whales.
3. Visit the Alaska State Museum
The Alaska State Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Alaska. The museum has a variety of exhibits on topics such as Alaska’s Native peoples, the Russian-American period, and the gold rush. The museum also has a large collection of art, including works by Alaskan artists. The Alaska State Museum is perfect for both adults and children, and admission is free.
4. Go hiking in the Tongass National Forest
The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States. The forest is home to a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. You can hike through dense rainforests, up mountains, and along the coast. The Tongass National Forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife when you’re hiking.
5. Go fishing
Juneau is a great place to go fishing. The waters around Juneau are home to a variety of fish, including salmon, halibut, and lingcod. You can fish from a boat or from the shore. There are several different fishing charters in Juneau, and they offer a variety of fishing trips to choose from. No matter how you choose to fish, you’re sure to have a great time.
6. Attend the Alaska Folk Festival
The Alaska Folk Festival is a four-day festival held in Juneau every August. The festival features a variety of folk music, dance, and storytelling. There are also workshops and demonstrations on traditional Alaskan crafts and skills. The Alaska Folk Festival is a great way to experience the rich culture of Alaska. Admission to the festival is free.
7. Visit the Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
The Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure is a beautiful botanical garden located just outside Juneau. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including many native Alaskan plants. The Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure also has a number of hiking trails that wind through the rainforest. The Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Alaska’s nature. Admission to the garden is $15 for adults and $7 for children.
Juneau is a beautiful and vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, you’re sure to find something to do in Juneau. With its mild weather and many festivals and events, August is the perfect time to visit Juneau. So start planning your trip today!
Culture
Juneau is a city with a rich culture. The city is home to many Native Alaskan tribes, and their culture is still very much alive in Juneau. There are also many Russian influences in Juneau, and the city has a unique blend of Native Alaskan and Russian culture.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Juneau are May through September. The weather during these months is mild and sunny. However, Juneau is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to book your accommodations in advance.
Nearby Transportation
Juneau is served by the Juneau International Airport (JNU). The airport is located about 10 miles from the city center. There are several different transportation options available at the airport, including taxis, shuttles, and rental cars.
Local Food
Juneau has a variety of restaurants, serving everything from Alaskan cuisine to international fare. Some of the most popular dishes in Juneau include salmon, halibut, and reindeer sausage. Juneau is also home to several breweries, and there are many local beers to choose from.
Best Hotels
There are several different hotels in Juneau, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Here are a few of the most popular hotels in Juneau:
- The Alaskan Hotel
- The Baranof Hotel
- The Gastineau Glacier Hotel
- The Juneau Hotel
- The Silverbow Inn
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to do in Juneau. With its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and many festivals and events, Juneau is the perfect place to visit in August 2024.
