JUNEAU
JUNEAU
Juneau, often described as America's most unusual state capital, is the only center of the U.S. government with no roads leading in or out of town. The city is surrounded by nature, namely imposing mountains and the waters of the Gastineau Canal. For most visitors, the only way to get in or out is by plane or sea. The gold put Juneau on the map in 1880, although the mining field went by several names before the seeker Joe Juneau finally managed to get enough votes to get his name. Gold remained the main pillar until the last mine closed in 1944. However, the mining sector has returned to being one of the most important industries in the region; in recent decades, two mines have begun to produce not only gold but also silver and other metals. Another leading industry is government. Juneau became a state capital when Alaska became the 49th state of the United States in 1959 and today about 60% of the city's population works in government. The governor's villa stands on a hill overlooking the cruise port, and anyone can take a walk on the hills through steep stairways.Juneau offers a wide range of activities by the sea, from whale watching and zip-line to visit the Capitol Building or the Alaskan Brewing Co. Then, there is the most accessible glacier in the state - Mendenhall, an immense 12-mile river of ice. Along with the vision of the glacier, there is always the possibility to see a bear or two up close.
