19 Best Things to Do in Fairbanks, Alaska: What to See, Where to Stay and Where to Eat

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If you’re looking for the ultimate outdoor adventure in the Last Frontier, look no further than Fairbanks, Alaska!

Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel.

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With its awe-inspiring natural landscapes and abundance of exciting activities, this fascinating city will leave you completely enthralled.

As its name implies, Fairbanks is the Golden Heart of Alaska. If youโ€™re wondering what fun and interesting things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska, youโ€™re in the right place.

After four-plus years of calling Fairbanks home, I know something about the Last Frontier.

Located just 196 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks, Alaska, can be considered the Scandinavia of America. Mother Nature has been generous with Fairbanks on ground level and in the air.

whale watching Alaska

On a good day, you can enjoy a scenic view of the magnificent mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and the surreal Northern Lights from snow-capped mountains and untouched vegetation.

Fairbanks offers a perfect combination of arctic wildlife and the interesting history of Alaska natives, settlers, and its gold rush heydays.

I aim to help you make the most of your stay with interesting things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska.

When youโ€™re done reading this article, check out my ultimate Alaska packing list (perfect for solo travelers and cruises) for your Alaska travel essentials, which many people wish they had read.

Best Things to Do in Fairbanks

Whether you’re a thrill-seeking adrenaline junkie or a nature lover looking for a relaxing getaway, Fairbanks has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the best things to do while visiting this incredible destination:

EXPLORE LIFE IN ALASKA THROUGH MUSEUMS

Fairbanks has some of the most informative museums about Alaska, providing information about its geology, wildlife, and deep-rooted Alaskan history.

1. The University of Alaska Museum of the North 

The University of Alaska Museum of the North is housed in an impressive work of art. It features award-winning exhibits that take you down memory lane from the time before our Forefathers. 

The university’s research laboratories supply a continuous flow of information into the museum, just as the reactant is continuously streamed into a reactor.

Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the University of Alaska Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel.

On one side, you will discover the origins of Alaska’s wildlife, beginning with dinosaurs; on the other, you will learn brand new information about Native Americans and Alaskan Natives in the area. 

This University of Alaska Museum of the North offers some of the best insights into Arctic life. I was buried in my books when I attended the University of Alaskaโ€”Fairbanks for my Masterโ€™s program, and I regret not fully visiting the museum.

Cost: University of Alaska students and children 5 and under get in free. Visitors aged 18-64 pay $20. Discounted admission is $16 for seniors (65+), Alaskan adult residents, military and veterans, and youth (6-17). There’s also a group rate of $14 for visitors in groups of 8 or more.
Location: 1962 Yukon Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775
More information: Official website

2. Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

Continuing with the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska, you must visit Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, which provides a realistic overview of the Alaskan way of life, cultural history, and traditions.

The museum is particularly praised for its visual exhibitions, such as short films and documentaries.

I called Alaska home for many years. This is your localโ€™s guide for the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska for first time visitors and return guests.
Yup, thatโ€™s me goofing around until I realized what this really was.

Iโ€™m not a huge museum or history snob, but I found the visitor’s center interesting and enriching. Donโ€™t know what an outhouse is? Thereโ€™s one right outside the visitorโ€™s center ๐Ÿ˜‰

Cost: Free (optional paid activities)
Location: 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
More information: Official website

3. Fairbanks Ice Museum

Fairbanks Ice Museum is the ultimate introduction to Alaskan Art with its extensive collection of delicately made ice sculptures. The museum is just a few minutes from two of my favorite Fairbanks restaurants, Thai House and The Crepery, but I digress. 

You can also visit the Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs, just outside Fairbanks. It is described as a more exciting and amazing experience than the Fairbanks Ice Museum.

The famous Chena Hot Springs Resort at Fairbanks, Alaska.

Note that the road to the Aurora Ice Museum gets very sleek during the winter season and thaw months, even with winter tires and a 4-wheel drive (speaking from experience) to Chena Hot Springs. 

But if youโ€™re short on time or worried about the winter driving conditions, the Fairbanks Ice Museum remains a great option.

Cost: Visitors 6-14 years old pay $10. Visitors aged 15+ pay $15. Groups of 10+ get a discounted price of $12.
Location: 500 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701
More information: Details & Reviews

4. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

If you collect motors and automobiles, you will be deeply satisfied at Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, which boasts a large collection of vintage vehicles dating back to the 19th century.

Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. A round up of the best free and fun things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on a budget that many people often overlook.

Cost: Adults pay $18, children ages 13 and above pay $10, and children ages 6 to 12 pay $10. Children 5 and below are free. The adult season pass is $80, and the family season pass is $120.
Location: 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701
More information: Details & Reviews

SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS (AURORA BOREALIS)

5. Chase the Aurora Borealis

Whatever your interests, you canโ€™t deny your excitement about one thing common to every destination in the far north: the Aurora Borealis. This natural phenomenon colors the sky with glowing lights, but spotting them is not always easy.

But guess what? Fairbanks is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Nevertheless, your chances are quite high with experienced tour companies and a little luck.

These companies know the best weather conditions and times of the day to view the clearest of these spectacular lights.

Sean Kurdziolek portrait of the Northern Lights.
Sean Kurdziolek Portraits

Would you like to do it solo? Use the Explore Fairbanks Aurora Tracker or the University of Alaska Aurora Tracker (my favorite) to see a Northern Lights forecast.

A KP Index forecast of 4 and above gives you a great shot of seeing the aurora. At a KP Index of 7, the aurora would be hard to miss even on well-lit streets. If you’re easily amazed by city lights at night, you’ll be astonished when you see the Aurora Borealis.

Remember that these trackers do not give you a predicted time for the Aurora to come out to play, so be on high alert. A Facebook page is dedicated to alerting people when the aurora is out.

An awe inspiring view of the Northern Lights shot in Fairbanks. Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on a budget. Make sure you cross off #5 from your bucket list.
Thatโ€™s me with the magnificent aurora borealis!

Sean Kurdziolek Portraits and Gallery also share live videos of the Northern Lights on his Facebook page.

The community brings people worldwide together to experience the Northern Lights in action from the comfort of their warm beds. Sean’s work is surreal, as are his aurora portraits and tours.

To help you prepare, book your tour online, at the agency offices in downtown Fairbanks, or schedule a tour/workshop/portrait session with Fairbanksโ€™ best photographer, like I did, to capture stunning imagery of you and your loved ones with the aurora for a memorable, fun family outing.

Cost: Free – $$$. Varies with tour company and aurora photographer
Location: Sean Kurdziolek Portraits and Gallery – 3375 Badger Rd #4, North Pole, AK 99705
More information: Details & Reviews

GET LOST IN NATURE

No matter what time of the year you visit Fairbanks, nature is always mesmerizing in so many ways. Arctic wildlife and flora can never disappoint.

6. Running Reindeer Ranch 

First things first, you cannot leave Alaska without seeing reindeer. The best destination in Alaska for that is the Running Reindeer Ranch located on the University of Alaska – Fairbanks property.

Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel.

The experienced guides ensure you get the most out of reindeer without disturbing them or harming yourself. Observing them in their natural habitat is priceless!

It’s one of the outdoor activities that everyone should experience at least once.

Cost: Adults: $85 to $120 
Location: 1470 Ivans Alley, Fairbanks, AK 99709
More information: Details & Reviews

7. Georgeson Botanical Garden

You’ll find the Georgeson Botanical Garden a few short miles from the Running Reindeer Ranch towards the university.

I called Alaska home for many years. This is your localโ€™s guide for the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska for first time visitors and return guests.

Although this botanical garden is not the largest Iโ€™ve been to, the position atop a hill, stunning views for weddings and engagement shoots, and key role in the School of Natural Sciences at the University of Alaska earn this garden a spot on this list.

This five-acre garden is home to many plant science research programs centered around subarctic horticulture.

The Georgeson Botanical Garden is probably one of the places I visited the most during the summer.

Cost: Adults: Free (donation box on site) 
Location: 2178 W Tanana Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709
More information: Official website

8. Chena River State Recreation Area

Chena River State Recreational Area is a bit further off the beaten path, but worth the long drive. With its crystal clear lakes and indigenous trees, this national park is like the giant backyard of Alaska.

Chena River State Recreation Area. I called Alaska home for many years. This is your localโ€™s guide for the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska for first time visitors and return guests.

Cost: Free
Location: 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709
More information: Official website

9. Angel Rocks Trail 

For more adventurous souls, we recommend the Angel Rock Trail. It suits all fitness levels, with well-marked trails and breathtaking views. The circular route should take 2-3 hours to complete.

Angel Rocks Trail. An awe inspiring view of the Northern Lights shot in Fairbanks. Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on a budget. Make sure you cross off #5 from your bucket list.

Ahem! Yes, thatโ€™s me again. It was a pretty easy hike. Just make sure you spray on your mosquito repellant. The mosquitoes in Fairbanks are huge and ferocious. More must-haves in this Alaska packing list.

Cost: Free or hike to Chena Hot Springs Resort for a dip of $15
Location: 15450 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712
More information: Details & Reviews

10. Creamerโ€™s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge

It’s not every day that man and animals share the same space in nature. The Creamer’s Field Refuge provides a large area of lush vegetation, wetlands, and ponds for migratory birds like waterfowl to stop over along their migratory route.

Popularly known as Alaskaโ€™s Gold Rush town, Fairbanks, Alaska is only 196 miles from the Arctic Circle. Keep reading to discover the best and most exciting things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on your visit to this Northern Lights haven.
That’s Creamer’s Dairy behind me

Created by the Creamers as a dairy farm in 1928, Creamer’s Field is now a beautiful space for wildlife viewing, research, and nature education (source). In 1977, Creamers Fields was admitted to the National Register of Historic Places!

I’ve gone there to watch the Northern Lights, for a relaxing walk, and even for a photoshoot. There are many trails for hiking and running, and as you go deeper into the field, you’ll discover ponds and wetlands.

Spring is the best time to see and watch the migratory birds change colors.

Cost: Free
Location: 1300 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701
More information: Official website

11. The Arctic Circle

Although the Arctic Circle Monument Sign is about 5 hours away from Fairbanks, this monument is located right on the Arctic Circle.

Getting there is an easy drive in the summer, but check the weather conditions beforehand since Fairbanks has very short summer months. 

And don’t forget to fill up your tank for the ~10hr roundtrip. Gas stations are few and far between and cost a lot!

Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks

There is not much to see when you get to the Arctic Circle, but itโ€™s an activity that many people desire to cross off their bucket list. Some rental companies prohibit driving their cars to certain areas because of the road conditions. 

However, there are tours available. The Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks has great reviews and combines the best of the Arctic Circle with the aurora borealis.

Cost: Free on your own or paid tour
Location: 160 miles northeast of Fairbanks at the end of the Steese Highway
More information: Details & Reviews

12. Chena Hot Springs

This hot spring and resort is a great place to detox in nature and enjoy the warmth of the spring.

A short one-hour drive from the city center, Chena Hot Springs is especially relaxing in the winter. With stunning views of the snow-covered surroundings, the Aurora Ice Museum is located on-site, allowing you to check off two activities from your bucket list quickly.

Chena Hot Springs Day Trip

Be careful driving on the Steese highway in the winter and at night. Even with all-wheel drive cars and snow tires, the road gets sleek. If you must, opt for a tour.

Cost: Adults pay $20, children ages 6-17 pay $17, seniors(60+) pay $18, and children 5 and below are free. Tour packages are also available.
Location: 17600 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712
More information: Details and Reviews

13. The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race

Popularly known as โ€œLast Great Race on Earth,โ€ the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race covers about 1,000 miles of the “roughest, most beautiful terrain Mother Nature has to offer.” (source)

Sled Dogs Running the Iditarod. Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel.

This dog sled race, which occurs in early March each year, pays tribute to the heroes (dog mushers and dogs) who delivered life-saving Diphtheria serum to Nome during an epidemic.

I highly recommend watching part of this race if you’re in Fairbanks or along the trail path in March. It’s all outdoors, so dress warm!

Cost: Free or $$$$ for Iditarod tours
Location: The race path runs from Anchorage (central Alaska) to Nome (western Bering Sea coast), and the route changes each year. Check the official for the checkpoint nearest to you.
More information: Official website

Other things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska, and nearby areas:

14. See The Antler Arch

The name explains itself: It is an arch made of hundreds of moose and caribou antlers. This iconic structure is outside the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center.

Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel.
Don’t mind my funny face!

The Antler Arch and surrounding area contain information about Alaskan hunting traditions. Itโ€™s a unique structure.

Cost: Free
Location: 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
More information: Official website

15. Visit Pioneer Park

With its colorful gold rush town and pioneer log cabins, a museum, mining valley, train station, and the imposing sternwheeler Riverboat Nenana, aka Queen of the Yukon, visiting the 44-acre Pioneer Park is like stepping into a movie set. 

This historical theme park tells the story of the Alaskan people, the residents of Fairbanks, and the Native American villages of Alaska so you can better visualize what it was like to live here in the old times.

Youโ€™ll also discover log cabins belonging to influential people who survived the historic Fairbanks flood of 1967.

A round up of the best free and fun things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on a budget that many people often overlook.
(So much to see at Pioneer Park)

And for the foodies, the Salmon Bake open buffet happens in the park Memorial Day Weekend through sometime in September. 

This is a haven for fresh seafood lovers. Salmon and crab are always on the menu.

Cost: Free
Location: 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99701
More information: Official website

16. Santa Claus House

Christmas is always at the Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska. I took my sister there in October last year, and she had a blast. Santa and Mrs. Claus are on duty all year round.

This is it if you’re looking for a fun winter activity.

Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel. Santa Claus House.
Santa Claus House during the off-Christmas season. The house gets decorated during the holiday season and looks like a winter wonderland.

The Santa Claus House offers many gifts and Alaska collectibles. As you would expect, these items are highly sought after.

But you can get a photo with Santa for free. Many tour buses stop at this spot, a 15-minute drive from Fairbanks.

Cost: Free
Location: 101 St Nicholas Dr, North Pole, AK 99705
More information: Official website

17. Denali National Park

If you need excitement outside Fairbanks’s city limits, take a same-day train ride from Fairbanks with Alaska Railroad to Denali National Park.

Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel. Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter

Alternatively, if you feel like your time in Fairbanks has ended, you can get on the same train to Anchorage. Get your ticket beforehand since they sell out fast during peak season.

Popularly known as Alaskaโ€™s Gold Rush town, Fairbanks, Alaska is only 196 miles from the Arctic Circle. Keep reading to discover the best and most exciting things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on your visit to this Northern Lights haven.
I shot this right outside the Fairbanks train depot. I went on a roundtrip from Fairbanks to Denali, and it was so much fun. I suggest spending at least a couple of days at Denali National Park.

Cost: $$$
Location: 1031 Alaska Railroad Depot Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701
More information: Details & Reviews

18. Explore Gold Rush Town

Go down memory lane learning about Fairbanks’ gold rush history with Gold Dredge 8. This fun walking tour runs from May through mid-September (temperatures hover around 50ยบF by September). Try your hand at gold panning and take home the gold you pan.

A round up of the best free and fun things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on a budget that many people often overlook. Gold Dredge 8 Tour

Cost: Depends on tour packages.
Location: 1803 Old Steese Hwy N, Fairbanks, AK 99712
More information: Details & Reviews

19. Fairbanks Ice Sculpture Festival

The World Ice Art Championships happen in Fairbanks each year. What started in 1990 as a way to continue the ice-sculpting traditions of interior Alaska has now become an international phenomenon featuring over 100 ice artists worldwide.

February is one of Fairbanks’s coldest months, so dress warm and stay warm in the heated on-site tents. The Fairbanks Ice Sculpture Festival runs from mid-February to late March.

Cost: Day Pass – $16, Youth Pass – $8, Children under 6 – Free
Location: Fairbanks Ice Sculpture Festival (2019 location) – 1800 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709
More information: Official website

More Best of Fairbanks, Alaska

Best Places to Stay in Fairbanks

For the size of Fairbanks International Airport, Iโ€™m rather impressed that most of these hotels even offer airport pickup. Take advantage of this opportunity during the winter months.

You donโ€™t want to deal with waiting for your rental to warm up in the middle of February at a subzero-degree temperature. Been there, done that, not fun.

I usually take an Uber, Lyft, or Fairbanks Taxi Cab home! If you arrive at the airport in the wee hours of the morning, it might be hard to get an Uber. Iโ€™ve waited 35+ minutes for one and called the local taxi company.

This frustration led to me saving the taxi number on my phone (Fairbanks Taxi Cab: 907-455-0000).

Click here to get $10 off your Lyft ride.
Click here to get a free ride with Uber.

Best Places to Eat in Fairbanks

Finally, weโ€™ve gotten to one of my favorite pastimes in Fairbanks. The best places to eat in Fairbanks! 

#1 Thai House Restaurant

The best Thai food Iโ€™ve ever had is hands down, from the Thai House Fairbanks. No other Thai restaurant comes close to what the folks at Thai House offer, and Iโ€™ve tried countless Thai restaurants just to quench my hunger for the Thai House. 

In a few short days, Iโ€™ll be heading back to Fairbanks, and you bet Thai House is on the menu, no pun intended. My two favorite dishes are the Penang Curry and Beef Mussamum.

Cost: $
Location: 412 5th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701

#2 The Crepery

Oh Lord, I canโ€™t begin to tell you how phenomenal the crepes from The Crepery are. Iโ€™m guilty of letting my mind wander at the thought of the decadence of their menu. Blame it on my two summers of study abroad in France!

 The Crepery Fairbanks
Left: Brie-walnut-honey crepe. Right: Crab Melt crepe. I had both of these. Super filling!

The day I kissed Fairbanks goodbye, I stopped time at The Crepery one last for my dose of crepes. The folks were so nice that they said my meal was on the house for being a loyal customer all these years.

My favorite crepes are the Brie, Walnut, Honey, the Crabe Melt, the Smoked Salmon, and Cuban crepes. They also have vegetarian options.

Cost: $
Location: 523 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701

#3 Shogun Japanese Restaurant

If you love hibachi or never tried Japanese food, youโ€™ll savor each bite of your generous portion meal at Shoguns. 

Shogun Japanese Restaurant

Although the price is a little higher than Thai House and The Crepery, this is a must for visitors to Fairbanks. Anything on their menu is fair game.

Cost: $$
Location: 4005 Geist Rd #3552, Fairbanks, AK 99709

Other great places to eat in Fairbanks, Alaska:

  • Wolf Run Restaurant
  • Lavelleโ€™s Bistro is housed in the SpringHill Suites Hotel and has been dubbed one of the best spots in Fairbanks. It offers great food and an upscale experience with a menu option to match.
  • Simply Thai
  • The Cookie Jar Restaurant โ€“ The ultimate breakfast and brunch spot!
  • HooDoo Brewing Company โ€“ A beer loverโ€™s dream come true!
  • Frostbite Foods
  • The Pump House Restaurant โ€“ Scenic views of the Chena River on the deck, amazing food, and decent prices. Make a reservation, or be prepared to wait!
  • Pike’s Landing โ€“ A hot spot for all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch!

Too tired or too cold to head out to eat? Try DoorDash meal service delivery. Click here to find out if It is available at your restaurant of choice.

Typical Costs

Accommodation can be pricey in Alaska, and Fairbanks is no exception. However, in the thick of winter, our coldest months, hostels, and accommodations are super affordable.

Where to stay in Fairbanks, Alaska
Super cozy wood cabin on Airbnb!

But in April and May, expect to pay a premium (no joke) for the same accommodation.

Book AHEAD of time as itโ€™s not unheard of for everything to be fully booked even Airbnb. Iโ€™ve had family pay a hotel premium for a motel because that was the only hotel available.

Hostel: $40 – 80 per night
A standard Bed & Breakfast Room: $85 – $150 per night
A standard hotel room: $150 – $175 per night
A luxury hotel room: $250-300 per night
Coming as a group? Get an Airbnb!

Pike's Waterfront Lodge

Dining:
Breakfast: $10-15 per person
Meal at a standard restaurant: $20-25
Meal at a fine-dining restaurant: $40 
Beer: $5-6 

Transportation:
A Full Tank of gas: ~$50 
Small Car rental: $35/day in winter (significantly higher in the summer due to tourist season)

Gas is also a premium here. Depending on the oil market, the cost can go upwards of $3-4 dollars in the summer.

If visiting Fairbanks in the winter, always ask if your rental company has a car with autostart and maybe even heated seats.

Car Rental Fairbanks

Autostart will make visiting during the frigid months more pleasant than cussing under your breath as you run outside to start your car 10-15 minutes before you head out to explore the town.

If youโ€™re not familiar with driving in winter conditions, accept an upgrade to an SUV or car with winter tires. And remember to drive carefully and slower than usual. Alternatively, Uber or Lyft can be used to get around town.

Fairbanks Travel Tips

Best Months to Visit (When to Visit)

Alaskan summers are very short, usually between June and August. Yup, the weather remains chilly throughout May.

You can get by with sweaters and a light raincoat. And the chill returns at the end of August/early September. Itโ€™s not unusual to see a snowcapped town in early October. 

For this reason, the peak tourist months are June through August for lovers of the Midnight Sun and February through March for Northern Lights chasers.

This is the high season due to ideal weather conditions, not to mention the midnight sun that keeps the city in the light all day.

The obvious drawback to summer vacation in Fairbanks is the increased prices and the crowds.

Surprisingly, prices remain relatively low during winter, with a small spike during spring break in March. I highly recommend that you book your accommodation and tours well in advance of your travel.

Pike's Waterfront Lodge

Although cold and heavy snow can be intimidating, it creates a perfect environment for winter sports and viewing the Northern Lights.

Visiting in May and September is smart if you insist on mild weather. Both months will see the weather warm enough to enjoy outdoors, yet it will not be half as crowded as the summer months.

Weather in Fairbanks

Fairbanks is part of the Subarctic climate zone. The highest summer temperature recorded is around 73 F in July, while it drops to -15 F in January. The annual snowfall is 61 inches, more than twice the US average.

A round up of the best free and fun things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on a budget that many people often overlook.
Shot this at -22ยบF!

On the other hand, the annual rain is 12 inches, which is less than half of the US average. The city has an average of 155 sunny days per year.

How to Save Money in Fairbanks, Alaska

There are many ways for you to save money while traveling.

  • Consider bringing your tent if you don’t want to pay huge amounts for accommodation. There are many campsites in and around Fairbanks where you could stay for as little as $10 per night. These places will be packed on the weekends and during the summer, so you must book in advance.
  • Some camping grounds to consider are Chena River Wayside, Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground, Riverview RV Park, Ice Art Park, and Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park. Iโ€™m not an avid camper, but I would not recommend camping in the winter. Get an Airbnb, a dry cabin (a cabin without running water), or couch surf if you must.
  • You can always rent a car in Fairbanks and split the costs if you are two or more persons.
  • Visiting in the offseason can help you book hotels and tours at a lower price. Besides, car rental prices will be significantly cheaper if you visit outside the peak season.

Safety in Fairbanks, Alaska

  • Fairbanks is a safe and quiet town. I stayed alone on a quiet street for three years and never had any reason to watch my back (but I did).
  • As with any town, there are always some bad apples. Our biggest concerns are petty thefts, auto thefts, and burglary. Exercise routine precautions such as keeping your car locked.
  • Alaska is the Wild West, and Fairbanks is its Last Frontier. As such, this is a wildlife country. Iโ€™ve spotted moose in my yard, on the street, and at work. Keep your distance; admire them from afar. Iโ€™ve never seen a bear in town, but they exist on hunting grounds.

Culture & Customs

Language

Although English is the spoken language in Fairbanks, there are about 20 native Alaskan languages.

These native languages include Aleut, Alutiiq, Central Yupโ€™ik, St Lawrence Island Yup’ik, Inupiaq, Tlingit, Ahtna, Denaโ€™ina, Deg Xinag, Holikachuk, Upper Kuskokwim, Koyukon, Lower Tanana, Tanacross, Upper Tanana, Gwichโ€™in, Han, Haida, and Tsimshian.

After calling the Last Frontier home for several years, these are my top recommendations on the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska for first time visitors. #5, #15, #16 are my ultimate favorites.
My friend Dawn (she’s an Inupiaq) and I are rocking handmade Alaskan Atikluks!

Currency

Because we are tucked away on the western end of Canada, some people wonder if we are part of the US.

Like New York, Alaska is one of the 50 states of the US. The US Dollar is the official and only currency used in Alaska.

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice, although not obligatory. It is usually customary to leave a 10-20% tip at restaurants for excellent service.

The same ratio applies to bartenders, tour guides, and any other employee in the hospitality sector.

Wildlife

The arctic wildlife is extremely alluring if observed from a safe distance. National Parks around Fairbanks are home to bears, moose, caribou, bald eagles, and wolves.

Besides the regular national parks, wildlife conservation centers are also where rescued animals are looked after.

Getting Around Fairbanks

Although renting a car is the easiest way to travel around the city, the city also offers some public transportation options.

  • Special cabs called Alaska Cabs are always operating
  • Uber and Lyft are alive and well in Fairbanks
  • Traveling via train is possible between Fairbanks and Anchorage through Denali National Park

For detailed information about public transportation, visit this website.

Entry & Exit Requirements

You need a US Visa to enter Alaska, as it is a state of the US. The only exception is Canada since Canadian citizens can travel to the US without a visa.

Not sure what to pack for your upcoming trip to Fairbanks? Iโ€™ve created the ultimate packing list and a free, downloadable checklist to ensure you have everything you need for your trip to Alaska.

In summary, the best things to do and see in Fairbanks, Alaska, in the summer or winter are:

  • The University of Alaska Museum of the North 
  • Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center
  • Fairbanks Ice Museum
  • Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
  • Chase the Aurora Borealis
  • Running Reindeer Ranch 
  • Georgeson Botanical Garden
  • Chena River State Recreational Area
  • Angel Rock Trail 
  • See The Antler Arch
  • Visit Pioneer Park
  • The Arctic Circle
  • Creamerโ€™s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
  • Santa Claus House
  • Fairbanks to Denali National Park with Alaska Railroad
  • Chena Hot Springs
  • Fairbanks gold rush town walking tour 
  • Fairbanks Ice Sculpture Festival (Mid-February to late March)
  • The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race (Early March)
Aurora Borealis

FAQs About Fairbanks, Alaska

What can you do in Fairbanks, Alaska?

Some of the most popular things to do in Fairbanks are watching the Aurora Borealis, visiting Running Reindeer Ranch, Pioneer Park, Morris Thompson Cultural Center, the Santa Claus House, going for a deep at Chena Hot Springs, and more. See the list above for interesting things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska?

Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights because of its unique location inside the Auroral Oval. I had this image taken right here in Fairbanks.ย 

Can you drive to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks?

Yes, you can drive from the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks. Be aware that some car rental companies prohibit driving their cars on that route. This is one of the most popular Arctic Circle tours that will take you on a roundtrip to the Arctic Circle.

Is there an Uber in Fairbanks, Alaska?

After years of waiting, Uber and Lyft are available in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Conclusion

While the Last Frontier may be best known for its stunning views and frigid subarctic temperatures, this northern gem offers countless things to do that will delight any traveler.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeking adventurer up for a dogsledding excursion or a history buff looking to learn more about Alaska’s gold rush era, Fairbanks has something for everyone!

Fairbanks Alaska

From exploring local art exhibits at the University of Alaska Museum to enjoying the beauty of the Aurora Borealis, there are truly endless things to do in Fairbanks. So start packing your bags because this trip will be for the books!

I hope you found this comprehensive post on the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska, informative and helpful as you explore the possibilities of visiting Fairbanks.

Feel free to comment below if you have any questions. I read all of them and personally responded to every comment.

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Everything you need to know about the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska from visiting Pioneer Park, the best time to see the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis), the Museum of the North, Santa Claus House, Running Reindeer Ranch and the best places to stay from Wedgewood Resort to Pike's Landing hotel.
Popularly known as Alaskaโ€™s Gold Rush town, Fairbanks, Alaska is only 196 miles from the Arctic Circle. Keep reading to discover the best and most exciting things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska on your visit to this Northern Lights haven.

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