Arriving in Juneau marked the end of our Alaskan cruise (see cruise post). And it was a bit sad to leave. But we were spending a couple of nights in Juneau and it was time to start exploring.
We stayed in the Juneau Hotel which was basically an apartment with laundry facilities and it felt so luxurious and spacious after the tiny little cabin we had on the cruise.
So there are a few popular attractions in Juneau and we tried to fit in as many as we could – one thing that was a bit odd was the huge number of jewellery shops. People must come off the big cruise ships and buy jewellery which I find a strange thing to do if you are going to Alaska!
Mt Roberts
The day we arrived, we took the Gondola up to the top of Mt Roberts and it developed into a beautiful day. The view up the top is quite spectacular. Went for a few short walks up the top – saw a baby porcupine eating at a bush. Took a rugged trail back to town instead of the gondola. I’m pretty good going down-hill but John’s knees suffered going down!
For dinner we had giant Alaskan crab claws. Absolutely massive – must be one foot long each. You’ve got to have this if you come here! We had a seafood feast on our second night too. Definitely the place to satisfy all seafood lovers!
Mendenhall Glacier
The Mendelhall Glacier is a must see when in Alaska! It’s a short drive from town (catch a bus or taxi if you don’t have a hire car) and is well serviced for tourists. The glacier ends at Mendenhall Lake and there are trails from the visitor centre to the Mendenhall Lake and Nugget Falls where you are quite close to the end of the glacier.
Last morning around town
On our last morning before we left we visited a small city museum which was quite interesting and had a bit of a look around the town. Had lunch in the Red Dog Saloon which is a wacky place and must get put on your list. Lots of huge animals on the walls, sawdust on the floor with an old guy playing the piano and quite funny. Weather wasn’t quite great whilst in Juneau but at least the cruise was near perfect, so can’t complain.
Tip: Wet weather clothes certainly came in handy.
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