Let me tell you, Alaska did not disappoint. I hadn’t been to the enormous northern state since I was a kid, and my expectations were high. Though I told myself not to get too excited—I’d be lucky if I got one sunny day.

You know what? We had an entire week of sunshine!

I don’t want to tell any lies. Sunshine is not the norm in Juneau. Case in point, our friends who were there the week before had pretty much straight rain. Weather-wise, Juneau reminded me of Seattle (where I have also had a ridiculous amount of sunshine): misty, drizzly, but not usually pouring.

Am I not selling it? Okay, read on.

What to Do in Juneau

1. Get out on the water

I know that sounds super cliche—an Alaskan cruise, really? But I tell you, those ships scoot through there for a reason.

The scenery is breathtaking. Crystal-blue water, mountains, fjords. And if you’re lucky, the occasional whale. We took a cruise through the Tracy Arm Fjord, and while we didn’t see any whales, we did see glaciers, seals, and nonstop gorgeous views.

If we’d had more time, I would have liked to get out on a smaller boat. As you know, I don’t do well with kayaks—the weather tends not to cooperate. Still, next time perhaps.

2. Take a hike

If you stop in Juneau and manage not to go on a single hike, you’re doing it wrong. We went on several hikes, ranging from easy breezy boardwalks to “I think I’m dying” switchback mountain treks. And I regret none of them.

Bring your hiking boots, trekking poles, snacks, and plenty of water. And of course, your camera!

Want to know more about hiking in Juneau? I’ve got you covered (stay tuned).

3. See a glacier

Again, if you somehow manage NOT to see a glacier while you’re in Juneau, you’re doing it wrong. There’s three of them you can see from town! You can even walk out onto Mendenhall Glacier if the weather conditions are right (or if you haven’t spent half a day slipping and sliding on rocks and cliffs just to get close to the thing).

Want to see a glacier from the water? You can do that too! Check out Sawyer Glacier from our cruise up Tracy Arm!

4. Have a drink, eat a meal

How could I not have an Alaskan Amber in its natural environment? Downtown Juneau isn’t very big—one can easily spend an afternoon there and see most of it. The food is good, there are plenty of shops, and the coffee is excellent.

I also can’t resist a brewery, though breweries in Juneau have a few more restrictions than I’m used to (the punch card was a fun little souvenir). Still worth a try though!

5. Find some wildlife

Alright, alright, you caught me. The whale isn’t real. I just love that picture…

Ok, I’ll try again.

There. How do you like them apples? Or animals…

Anyway, you don’t have to go on a cruise to see wildlife (I’m told a simple trip to the dump will give you all the bears you could want). Eagles and marmots are pretty easy to find. If you get higher up, you can see ptarmigans and mountain goats. And of course, get close to the water to see seals and otters.

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What did I tell you? Juneau may be a small town, but it packs a ton of adventure. Happy trails!