“Ideal for groups with diverse fitness levels, attendees will be able to explore off the boat by hiking or snowshoeing along the trails, fish and paddle around the icebergs, or simply take photographs of the sites.”
The small town of Juneau, Alaska—with a population of 32,164—attracts groups for its natural beauty with easy access to the Inside Passage communities as well as the state’s famous Glacier Bay National Park. While these natural wonders have made this area standout for decades, here are five reasons for groups to visit Juneau now.
A Life-Size Whale Sculpture
Earlier this month, Alaska nonprofit The Whale Project donated a 28-foot, six-ton sculpture of a humpback whale to the Juneau community. Created by local artist R.T. “Skip” Wallen, the sculpture looks like a breaching whale and is set in an infinity spraying fountain overlooking Gastineau Channel in the heart of downtown. The sculpture is positioned at the beginning of a 1.25-mile waterfront boardwalk and is part of the city’s plans to develop the waterfront, connecting visitors to the city’s business and arts communities.
New Wine Education Classes
Juneau Food Tours will introduce five new wine education classes later this year. Groups who take one of the classes will experience a variety of wine from a specific region such as Argentina, Italy, France and California, paired with cheese and small-bite tastings.
Group Sailing Excursions
Adventure Flow will begin offering sailing adventures on the S.V. Arcturus starting in spring 2017. The eight-day Glacier Bay Epic sailing adventure will take attendees to Glacier Bay National Park. Ideal for groups with diverse fitness levels, attendees will be able to explore off the boat by hiking or snowshoeing along the trails, fish and paddle around the icebergs, or simply take photographs of the sites. A six-day Muir Alaskan Adventure is also available for groups who want a similar experience in a shorter time frame.
All-Inclusive Cruises
Fantasy Cruises will offer longer expeditions (nine- and 14-day cruises) from Sitka to Juneau, stopping at small fishing towns along the way. Wildlife-watching excursions in the East Peril Straight as well as whale-watching opportunities and birding activities are also available as part of the company’s 2017 itineraries.
Recycling Made Easier
Meeting planners who are passionate about the environment will be happy to know that Juneau created four new recycling drop boxes around town for citizens and visitors to drop off recycling. Since the city’s recycling program is small and its recycling center is only open Thursday through Saturday, this will make it easier for groups meeting during the week to recycle.
