about fairbanks
Fairbanks is an Alaskan interior city that has a ton to offer. Since it is a distance from Anchorage and Anchorage is typically more commonly flown into city, it isn’t as visited at some other cities and towns in Alaska, but it really should be on your radar. It is known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture. It is a great place to visit in the winter for opportunities to see the aurora borealis. It has a historic downtown and unique activities. It truly is a gateway to Alaska’s wild beauty.
how to get to Fairbanks
You can get to Fairbanks via flight. It has a decent size airport. You may find that flying in and out of Fairbanks may be cheaper than Anchorage or it may be comparable but possibly with cheaper rental car options. From Fairbanks you can get to Denali National Park with is about 122 miles and 2 hours and 10 minutes away. It is also a gateway to the Artic Circle which is 5 hours north of Fairbanks. Fairbanks is about 4.5 hours from Copper Center (gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park) and about 6 hours and 40 minutes from Anchorage by car.
getting around
Once in Fairbanks the best way to get around the area via car. It will allow you to get to some of the top things to do and to the other top things to do in Alaska.
time to visit
Fairbanks is a top place to visit in both the winter and summer depending on what you want to do. Fairbanks is great for the northern lights, dog sledding, and other winter sports during the winter and during the summer, it is warm with great outdoor hiking, fishing and activities.
things to do
Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park is a free park that showcases historic buildings, museums and artifacts. There are small shops and places to eat as well. This park is free and filled with a bunch of unique things to check out regarding the state’s history.
Aurora Borealis Viewing
If you are looking to be mesmerized by the Northern Lights Fairbanks is an excellent choice to see this sky spectacle between late September and early April.
Riverboat Discovery Tour
The Riverboat Discovery tour allows you to learn about history on a scenic cruise on the Chena River.
University of Alaska Museum of the North
This museum is a research and teaching museum and a great attraction. There is historical and art sections making it a great place to explore. It is open from 9AM-7PM during the summer and 9AM-5:30 PM otherwise. It is $16 for adults and $9 age 5-12, free for children 4 and under.
CREAMER’S FIELD MIGRATORY WATERFOWL REFUGE
This area is great for birdwatching and nature walks. It is over 2000 acre preserve that began as a dairy farm and now is habitat for migrating birds.
LARGE ANIMAL RESEARCH STATION
This attraction is part of the University of Alaska. It is free to visit and see incredible artic animals including musk ox and reindeer. You can also do a guided tour for $15 minutes Wednesday-Saturday 10 AM, 12 PM and 2 PM during the summer.
CHECK OUT SOME LOCAL BREWERIES
There are so many incredible breweries in Fairbanks. They are definitely worth checking out. Some of the top breweries include Black Spruce, HooDoo, 49th State, Lat 65, Big Delta and Midnite Mine Brewing.
things to do near fairbanks
Chena Hot Springs
These hot springs are located about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Fairbanks but offer not only the hot springs but hiking in the summer and ice sculptures in the winter.
The North Pole
North Pole, Alaska is a town dedicated to the whimsy of Christmas. There are Christmas themed streets and the iconic Santa Claus House. You can meet Santa, mail letters from the North Pole and see the world’s largest fiberglass Santa!
Denali National Park
Denali National Park is about 2 hours away and is packed with nature and wildlife. If you have more time I would encourage you to spend more than a day but you can definitely do just a day tour as well!
