Founded by Joseph Juneau (1833-1899) and Richard Harris (1833-1907), the city of Juneau was initially named after these two persons. The discovery of gold in 1880 sparked a rush of prospectors to the area. Once called Harrisburg, the new town was shortly renamed Rockwell and finally Juneau after it was established. It flourished swiftly within a year, reaching a population of several hundred. In 1887, the city's most notable landmarks, such as the Evergreen Cemetery, were established. Alaska State Museum was created in 1900 after St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1894. Juneau was incorporated in 1900, the same year it became a city. Later, Alaska's district administration moved to Juneau from Sitka in 1906. Then the state became a territory in 1912. The same year, the governor's residence was completed. Today, Juneau has grown into Alaska's largest city since 1920. However, only 3,000 people lived in the city that year. But even after gold mining and milling in Juneau came to an end in 1944, the city's economy never ceased to thrive.

Things to do in Juneau, AK
Look no further if you're looking for the most incredible things to do in Juneau, Alaska. The Alaskan capital may appear small upon arrival. However, there are so many activities in Juneau that you'll want your visit to this beautiful city to be longer. The following are some of the most popular activities.

Check Out Mendenhall Glacier
Juneau's most popular attraction is the Mendenhall Glacier. You won't want to miss it, notwithstanding the crowds. There will never be a chance for many people to see a glacier up close. You'll find hiking paths, wildlife viewing, and souvenir shopping, in addition to the most uniquely picturesque Alaskan landscape.

Alaska State Museum
With hands-on exhibits and sites conveniently located in downtown Juneau, the Juneau City Museum and Alaska State Museum provide family-friendly activities for all ages.
You may explore and learn more about Alaska and its rich history, with 15,000 artifacts dating back to the state's early days.

Explore Downtown Historic Juneau
Several facilities to help you feel like you're strolling into an 1898 Gold Rush mining town have been preserved in Juneau's Downtown commercial district. Today, however, souvenir shops and restaurants also cater to summer cruise ship passengers. Remember to be on the lookout for stores with signs on their displays informing you about local proprietors and local merchandise when strolling through this area.

Visit Juneau Ice Field
If witnessing the glacier from the opposite side of a lake isn't close enough, consider taking a helicopter trip that lands you right on the glacier!

All tiers of adventure are available here. Some trips will provide you with equipment and take you ice climbing. Others will bring you to a dog sled camp, where you can ride a sledge pulled by a crew of huskies.

Underground Film Festival
JUMP Film Festival honors the talents of underground filmmakers twice a year. These films are all under 10 minutes long and are suitable for all ages. Join one of the night sessions and relax with a beverage while watching the movie.

Each film at the festival will be about 60 to 90 minutes long, based on how many cinematic masterpieces the festival shows and the length of each film. Finally, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday are all days you can partake in these film festival shows.