by Dennis Augustine
Our next stop: Juneau, the only U.S. capital that you can’t drive to! Surrounded by dramatic fjords, glaciers, and the towering Coast Mountains, Juneau is accessible only by boat or plane—adding to its mystique and charm.
The city’s name honors Joe Juneau, a French-Canadian gold prospector who, along with Richard Harris, discovered gold here in 1880. That rush gave birth to the town—and the spirit of adventure still lingers in the air.
Juneau is known for its rich Indigenous Tlingit culture, and stunning vistas around every turn. Whether you’re riding the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views, wandering historic Front Street, or watching floatplanes crisscross the harbor—it’s a place that whispers stories from the past and sings with natural beauty.
We arrived alongside several majestic cruise ships, each one unloading travelers ready to explore this gem tucked between sea and sky. Yet even with the bustle, Juneau retains a peaceful, old-town feel—with quaint shops, friendly locals, and bald eagles perched just beyond reach.
