Alaska’s capital city was named after gold prospector Joe Juneau. In 1880, Juneau and Richard Harris discovered nuggets in Gold Creek, inspiring a stampede that led to the founding of the mining camp known as Harrisburg (and later renamed Juneau). Juneau was founded in 1881 as a gold mining camp by Joseph Juneau and Richard Harrison. The city later became the capital of Alaska in 1906. The Tlingit, the first people to occupy the land, who settled around 10,000 years ago. In 1770, British explorer and navigator Captain James Cook sailed into the channel while searching for the Northwest Passage. In 1880, gold was discovered in the channel, and Juneau became a booming mining town. In 1914, the Alaska-Juneau Gold Mine was built, the largest gold mine in North America. The mine operated until 1944 and produced over $200 million worth of gold.

Visit the Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Juneau. The glacier is about 12 miles long and offers stunning views of icebergs and glaciers. Several trails lead to the glacier, making it a great place to hike or explore.

One of the most exciting ways to see Juneau is taking a helicopter ride. Sit back and relax as you take in views of the Mendenhall Glacier, the Tongass National Forest, and even wildlife like eagles and bears. Helicopter tours depart daily from downtown Juneau and last around 30 minutes.

⁠Visit the Alaska State Museum
The Alaska State Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s natural history and Native cultures. The museum houses over 25,000 artifacts, including a Tlingit canoe and an extensive collection of Alaskan gold.

The museum is also home to a planetarium, which shows the aurora borealis and the Northern Lights. The planetarium’s projection system is one of the most advanced globally and offers an immersive experience.

⁠Go Whitewater Rafting on the Taku River
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, go whitewater rafting on the Taku River. The river is just outside Juneau and is fed by glacial runoff, making the water cold and murky.

But don’t let that deter you – the rapids are Class III and IV, making for a thrilling ride. Several companies offer guided tours, so you can sit back and relax while someone else does the paddling.