Things To Do
in Fairbanks
Fairbanks sits in Alaska's interior, where long winters and bright summers shape its character. The city blends frontier history with modern amenities, acting as a gateway to rugged wilderness and cultural experiences. Its climate swings from subarctic summers to crisp winters, inviting year-round adventures.
Friendly locals, a compact downtown, and easy access to nearby parks and rivers make it a convenient base for exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Fairbanks Historic District, where you can stroll along the charming streets lined with vintage buildings. Stop by the Alaska Railroad Depot to learn about the region's history and its significance in connecting remote communities. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, indulging in traditional Alaskan dishes like reindeer sausage and sourdough pancakes.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Museum of the North, where you can discover fascinating exhibits on Alaska's natural and cultural history. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the Botanical Garden, surrounded by vibrant flowers and local flora. You might also want to grab lunch at a nearby eatery offering fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
As the sun sets, head to the Chena River for a relaxing evening cruise, where you can soak in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling Alaskan seafood and other regional specialties. Cap off your day by enjoying the northern lights, if conditions permit, as you marvel at the natural beauty of the night sky.
Start your day early with a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can see native animals such as moose, bears, and bison in a natural setting. Engage with the knowledgeable staff to learn about wildlife rehabilitation efforts and conservation projects in Alaska. Make sure to snap some photos of these magnificent creatures in their habitats.
After a morning of wildlife viewing, embark on a scenic hike in the nearby Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. This beautiful area is perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of nature, with picturesque trails winding through wetlands and forests. Pack a picnic to enjoy surrounded by the serene beauty of the refuge.
As the day winds down, return to Fairbanks and enjoy a casual dinner at a local diner, savoring classic Alaskan comfort food. If you're feeling adventurous, consider joining a night-time guided tour to see the auroras, where expert guides will take you to the best spots for viewing. Wrap up your evening with warm drinks around a fire, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Monthly public transit pass | $60-75 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $1,400-2,000 |
| 🥛Milk (1 liter) | $1.50-2.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Alaska's interior and aurora experiences
- Compact downtown with good walkability and amenities
- Wide range of outdoor activities and nature within a short drive
- Rich cultural heritage and museums
- Harsh winter conditions requiring careful planning
- Higher travel costs to reach Alaska
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Remote location can mean longer travel times to major hubs
Places to Visit in Fairbanks
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic river views with the town skyline and reflections at dawn or dusk.
Architecturally striking building with river and forest backdrops; excellent for exterior shots.
Open fields and wetlands offering birds, open skies, and golden hour lighting.
High overlook with expansive views of the Alaska Range and Fairbanks valley.
Icy landscapes and forest scenery; great for night photography with potential aurora reflections on ice.
Food in Fairbanks
Fairbanks Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple in Alaska, often grilled and served with onions and mustard.
Must-Try!
Fresh salmon prepared by grilling or baking with herbs.
A traditional frozen dessert made with berries and fat; found at cultural centers and some eateries.
Desserts and toppings flavored with birch syrup.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, seafood, baked goods, and crafts; a great place to sample Alaska flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress in layers; Alaska winters are cold; check trail conditions before heading out.
Respect wildlife distances; store food securely; leave no trace.
Respect Indigenous lands and cultural centers; ask for permission before photographing people in cultural settings.
Safety
Tipping in Fairbanks
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, 15-20% at restaurants; tip bartenders and guides; round up taxi fares.
Major credit cards widely accepted; cash is handy; some small venues may be card-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours with mild to warm temperatures; mosquitoes can be intense; great for hiking, fishing, and midnight-sun photography.
Colorful foliage and cooler days; ideal for photography and Northern Lights viewing as nights lengthen.
Subzero temperatures with short daylight hours; prime aurora season and winter sports.
Melt and thaw; trails can be muddy; wildlife activity increases as days lengthen.
Fairbanks at Night
Hiking in Fairbanks
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, easy trails ideal for birdwatching and dawn walks.
A long multi-use trail along the Chena River suitable for biking and hiking.
Scenic hike offering views of the Alaska Range and granite features.
High overlook with panoramic views of Fairbanks Valley and Northern Lights opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Fairbanks by plane.
Main gateway to interior Alaska; about 5 miles southwest of downtown with connections to Seattle, Anchorage, and regional destinations.
Major Alaska hub used for connecting flights to Fairbanks and other regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, with a strong Indigenous presence and a lively student population.
Athabascan and other Indigenous groups with cultural centers and communities.
University of Alaska Fairbanks students and personnel contribute to a youthful, diverse mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular winter sport with local leagues and public skating rinks.
Extensive trails and snow-covered landscapes around the region.
Cultural and adventure experiences on snow trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fairbanks.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burgers, seasonal salads, and vegetable-forward dishes; ask for customization and dairy-free options.