North to Alaska to Join UnCruise Adventures!
North to Alaska to Join UnCruise Adventures!
North to Alaska to Join UnCruise Adventures!
By WAVEJourney
DESTINATION: JUNEAU, ALASKA
A brief glance at Mendenhall Glacier from the Alaska Airlines 737 as we approached our landing at Juneau International Airport started the excitement for our visit to Alaska’s capital city.
Mendenhall Glacier
After retrieving checked luggage we walked out of the airport terminal and were able to catch a waiting taxi to take us to the Prospector Inn. We had just one night to spend in the city before joining UnCruise Adventures for a 7-night Glaciers and Whales small ship adventure cruise on Safari Endeavour through the Inside Passage from Juneau to Sitka.
Juneau, Alaska
Juneau is one of the oldest cities in Alaska, and has been the state capital since 1906. Originally a Tlingit settlement on the banks of the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is the first city founded in Alaska following the purchase from Russia by the United States. Juneau is located in the massive Tongass National Forest, which is America’s largest national forest encompassing approximately 17 million acres.
WAVEJourney in Juneau, Alaska
Today, around downtown Juneau, it is still easy to view remnants from the early Gold Rush days – interesting buildings and historic architecture. The population of approximately 32,000 jumps by 10-30% depending how many big ship cruises are in port on any given day.
Cruise ship and sea plane in Juneau, Alaska
Shopping galore can keep visitors busy buying up souvenirs of all descriptions. Plus, there are plenty of foodie finds to satisfy the appetite and quench the thirst, and endless outdoor activities to suit all interests and levels of endurance.
After checking in at the Prospector Inn we gathered our cameras and rain gear (it had been pouring since we flew in) and headed out for a walk around the downtown area. Being rather thirsty we discovered the recently opened Devil’s Club Brewing Company where we really enjoyed their selection of craft beers.
WAVEJourney enjoys the craft beers at Devil’s Club Brewing Co. in Juneau, Alaska
Satisfied with wandering the shops and tromping through the rain, it was time for dinner. The Hangar on the Wharf was the local recommendation for a great view (especially of sea planes coming and going on the Gastineau Channel, excellent food and plenty of options for draft beer – Sold!
The Hangar on the Wharf
Jill had the macadamia nut crusted halibut with wild rice and sauteed vegetables – huge portion of delicious halibut and perfectly prepared accompaniments. Viv was extremely happy with her choice of the blackened halibut fish tacos with pico de gallo, pinto beans and Spanish rice. Along with a couple of Alaskan Brewing Co. beers, the meal and location couldn’t be beat.
Lots of shopping opportunities in Juneau, Alaska
Read WJ’s UnCruise Adventures Safari Endeavour Alaska Review
Notes: WAVEJourney were media guests of UnCruise Adventures in May 2018. Read our full disclosure statement to see our review policy.
