Exploring Juneau, Alaska: A Journey to My 50th State

While living in Vancouver, Washington, I considered visiting Alaska. However, I wasn’t excited about the colder climate. After moving to Palm Springs and becoming a travel writer, my interest grew. A trip to Alaska would mean I had visited all 50 states. I set out to explore Juneau, focusing on the town rather than just stopping during an Alaskan cruise.

Before attending the TravMedia IMM Conference in New York, I connected with Kristi Switzer from Travel Juneau. Our schedules didn’t align with the conference, so we decided to meet for breakfast at a nearby restaurant. We had a delightful meeting, and I promised to publish articles about my experiences.

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The Exciting Invitation to Juneau, Alaska

When the official invitation from Travel Juneau arrived, I was overjoyed. I wanted to shout from the rooftops! Finally, I was going to visit Alaska. My friends cheered for me, knowing how much this trip meant.

This was a significant milestone—my 50th state. I wanted to celebrate in a special way, but I worried that my plans wouldn’t be grand enough. However, I soon realized that I didn’t need to worry. Let me share some highlights from this fabulous trip.

Arriving in Juneau, Alaska

Flying into Juneau, I noticed hundreds of small islands below, with no signs of buildings or paths. I later learned that many locals own boats and often pack picnics to enjoy on these islands, seeking privacy and relaxation.

View Point of Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau Alaska Photo by Kathy Condon

Kristi met me at the airport, and we headed to one of her favorite spots. The Mendenhall Glacier is about five miles from Juneau International Airport. To my excitement, I saw my first black bear cross the road. Kristi explained that locals live in harmony with the bears—they leave them alone, and the bears do the same.

We parked and walked through an archway. Before us stood the magnificent glacier, the first I had ever seen. The silence was striking. They say a visit to Alaska changes you, and I felt that deeply in that moment. The beauty around me was unlike anything I had ever experienced. This was going to be an adventure of a lifetime.

My First Day: Flight Over Glaciers

Staying at the Baranof Hotel made it easy to walk to the dock where Wings Airways seaplanes flew out to Taku Lodge. Along with other guests, we boarded three seaplanes. Once in the air, the smooth ride glided over breathtaking views of five glaciers in the Juneau ice fields. The sun shone brightly, and the scenery was stunning.

Dining at Taku Lodge with a View of Taku Glacier Photo by Kathy Condon

Upon arriving at Taku Lodge, we were advised to explore the beautiful grounds before lunch. The Hole-in-the-Wall was just across the river. Although a resident bear didn’t visit us, we enjoyed the aroma of cooking salmon wafting through the air.

Dinner was exceptional, and we appreciated the history of this private lodge, which partners with Wings Airways to create a unique experience. As we flew back, I smiled, realizing I didn’t need to plan a special celebration for visiting my 50th state. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Day Two in Juneau, Alaska

After seeing glaciers from the air, I was excited to see one from a boat on the Tracy Arm Fjord. This seven-hour cruise was relaxing, with stunning views as we floated past the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world.

Juneau Alaska Iceberg Photo by Kathy Condon

I was most excited about seeing my first iceberg, which turned out to be a baby one. I marveled at its shape and was amused to see harbor seals sunning on it. Our captain maneuvered carefully as we approached the South and North Sawyer Glaciers, where icebergs became more plentiful.

We stayed near the base of the glacier for a while. Although we didn’t witness any icebergs calving, we were in awe of the glacier's enormity. The exterior was covered with dirt, a reminder of its long journey through the environment.

Ice from Glacier in Juneau Alaska Photo by Kathy Condon

Once the dirt layer was removed, the ice was pure enough to be used in drinks. The crew scooped up a small iceberg and brought it on board. It was crystal clear and found its way into our cocktails, available for purchase on the boat.

On the way back, we relaxed and chatted with fellow passengers. Since we were ahead of schedule, the captain took the boat around one of the largest icebergs we saw during the cruise.

Back at the Juneau Dock

With the late afternoon and evening free, I stopped for a salmon donut at Jelly Fish Donuts & Dumpling. I had to try it! While I enjoyed the popular salmon spread, I could skip it on a donut. However, I loved the donut made with spruce tips, an herb gathered by Alaskans in spring.

Day Three: Exploring Downtown Juneau

With the morning free, I explored downtown Juneau. Breakfast with my Travel Juneau colleague was perfect. I learned how the community supports one another. I smiled, realizing that the sunshine had led to bonfires and gatherings on nearby islands the previous evening.

View of the Sealaska Heritage Institute in Downtown Juneau Photo by Kathy Condon

I visited the Sealaska Heritage Institute, located within walking distance from the waterfront where cruise ships arrive. The plaza featured masks and totems celebrating family lineage, clan histories, and cultural beliefs.

I purchased a ticket at the gift shop and entered a world of exquisite artifacts. Each piece had a narrative sharing its importance. I was intrigued to learn that they have an artist studio on-site to teach ancestral crafts. Unfortunately, no artist was present during my visit.

Walking through another set of doors, I was in awe of a carefully constructed Clan House. This meeting place for Native Alaskans featured stunning woodwork and carvings. After learning about Alaskan culture, I wandered around the exceptional gift shop.

Time for a Juneau Food Tour

Our leader, Chief Eating Officer Midgi Moore of Juneau Food Tour, was passionate about the area. She shared not only the rich food scene but also its history.

Loved Barnacle Spruce Tip Shortbread Photo by Kathy Condon

First Stop: Barnacle Foods - Spruce tip treats – I loved them and bought biscuits.

Second Stop: Tracy’s King Crab Shack - King crab bisque, crab cake, roll.

Third Stop: Taste of Alaska - Smoked salmon dip, smoked salmon caviar, kelp salsa & chips.

Fourth Stop: Deckhand Dave’s - Rockfish tacos and local beers.

Fifth Stop: Harbor Tea and Spice - Alaska-made Ice Cave Blue herbal tea.

Sixth Stop: Crystal Saloon - Denali Brewing Co. Blueberry Mojito.

Seventh Stop: Alaska Fudge Company - Tasty treats.

Another Boat Ride Adventure

Juneau has only 45 miles of roadway, making boat travel common. It’s similar to how residents in other states use their cars. Next, we met at the waterfront for the Whale Quest and Orca Lodge Tour.

Orca Point Lodge on Whale Quest Tour Photo by Kathy Condon

With overcast skies, we headed out on the Stephens Passage to Auke Bay, a favorite feeding area for humpback whales. First, we enjoyed a massive buffet at Orca Lodge. The food was authentic, and the staff were interns from around the world, learning about Alaskan culture.

Afterward, we boarded the boat and were treated to humpback whales frolicking in the bay. It felt like they were saying, “Hey, the boat is here, let’s give them a show.”

Leaving Alaska: A Memorable Journey

View of Juneau Alaska from the Goldbelt Tram Photo by Kathy Condon

My trip to Alaska was outstanding. I didn’t even have time to elaborate on all my experiences. I took a trip to the top of the Goldbelt Tram, overlooking the port of Juneau. Plus, I enjoyed an engaging evening with the owner of Jorgenson House and cooking lessons from her fabulous Chef Amara.

Now, I can proudly say I have visited all 50 states. I can’t think of a better way to conclude that quest. Juneau is special for many reasons. My instincts were correct from the first night’s visit. I have never experienced a place with such radiant beauty. The pride the people have in their community is genuine, and the closeness of its citizens is truly enviable.

Thank you, Travel Juneau, for making my trip to Juneau, Alaska, spectacular.

Kathy Condon Travel Writer and Award-winning Author

Kathy Condon is a Travel Writer and Award-winning Author. Her niche is in luxury experiences, hidden delights, and communities living in the shadows of larger cities. 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com kathy@kathycondon.net