THINGS TO DO IN
There are so many things to do in Fairbanks and the surrounding area. Whether viewing the famous Aurora Borealis is your focus, if you’re after some active outdoor time or wildlife viewing or even if arts and culture are more to your interest, you’re sure to find something to excite you in Fairbanks, Alaska. We’ve picked out some of the highlights and things we recommend and included them on our page, along with links to more information. We hope you enjoy finding out what Fairbanks has to offer!
VIEW THE AURORA BOREALIS
The world famous aurora borealis or northern lights are top of most visitors list of things to do in Fairbanks. The spectacular dancing light displays can be seen from fall (September) and through the winter months. The aurora borealis is an amazing sight, with its colors shimmering and pulsating across the night sky. The best way to see the northern lights is to get out of the city on a clear night to where light pollution is at a minimum.
VISIT CHENA HOT SPRINGS
Another of the most popular things to do in Fairbanks is to pay a visit to Chena Hot Springs. Only 60 miles from Fairbanks, this world renowned resort offers a day or evening of rest and relaxation in the historical location discovered by natives and early miners. Visitors take time to enjoy the healing water of the mineral hot springs in a beautiful natural setting. The resort is also home to the worlds largest year round ice museum with exhibits of spectacular ice carvings.
THINGS TO DO IN FAIRBANKS CITY
Fairbanks Visitor Center
World-class exhibits celebrating the people, land and culture of Interior Alaska, Native art, music, stories & dance.
Museum of the North
Dramatic architecture and fascinating exhibits tell the stories of Alaska’s diverse wildlife, people, and lands.
Pioneer Park & Museum
Historical theme park with museums, shops, food & picnic areas.
Riverboat Discovery
Board the Riverboat Discovery for a unique Alaskan experience.
Fairbanks Childrens Museum
Museum with interactive exhibits designed for young people.
Tanana Valley Fisheries Center
Freshwater aquarium, exhibits, state-of-the-art sport fish hatchery.
Alaska House Art Gallery
Authentic Alaskan Native art exhibits in an historic log house.
The Pioneer Air Museum
Museum exhibiting Aviation History of Interior & Arctic Alaska
Tanana Valley Railroad Museum
Learn how this railroad played a role in Fairbanks’ first industry.
Antique Auto Museum
A stunning display of historically significant Alaska automobiles.
Santa Claus House
One of the iconic things to do in Fairbanks! Santa at his home in North Pole, have your photo taken with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Trans-Alaska Pipeline
See this impressive feat of engineering, built to carry oil from the oilfields in Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, Alaska.
THINGS TO DO NEARBY
Fishing
Experience world class river fishing near Fairbanks, Alaska.
Reindeer Ranch
Go on a nature walk with reindeer from Running Reindeer Ranch.
Moose Mountain
Ski Area close to town with intermediate and advanced terrain.
Gold Dredge No.8
See first hand how the dredge worked the goldfields and try gold panning.
Dog Mushing
Experience real Dog Mushing on trails used by Alaskan Mushers.
Arctic Circle
Visit the Arctic Circle and enjoy beautiful scenery & wildlife along the way.
Arctic Ocean
Travel along the James Dalton Highway to Prudhoe Bay and the Arctic Ocean.
Denali Park
Visit spectacular Denali National Park and participate in outdoor activities.
Wildlife Viewing
Spot Moose, Beavers, Squirrels, Hares, Dall Sheep, Birds and more.
Hiking
There is an abundance of hiking trails around Fairbanks.
Rafting
Drift one of the Alaska Interiors spectacular rivers in a raft.
Ice Fishing
Catch fish in a warm ice fishing cabin on a beautiful lake.
WHERE TO EAT IN FAIRBANKS
Why not add eating out to your list of things to do in Fairbanks? Fairbanks has a wide range of dining options, from fine dining through to casual pub style restaurants, there is something to suit every taste and budget. Below are a few of our recommendations, or for a more comprehensive list Click Here >
Lavelles Bistro
Lavelles Bistro is a Fairbanks fine dining sensation, with globally influenced food and an extensive wine cellar.
The Turtle Club
Rustic Fine Dining with an Alaskan atmosphere. Prime Rib, Seafood & Cocktails. Reservations recommended.
The Banks Alehouse
A casual, family friendly bar & grill. The extensive menu features inventive Alaskan twists on bar food favorites.
Silver Gulch
Warm and inviting brewery & restaurant, put this on your list of things to do in Fairbanks.
The Pump House
Fine Dining overlooking the Chena River. Prime aged beef, Alaska seafood, premium wine list, and microbrews.
Friar Tucks Hoagie House
Casual dining. Friar Tucks offers a delicious selection of hot & cold rolls, salads, sides, and appetizers.
WHERE TO STAY IN FAIRBANKS
With such an abundance of things to do in Fairbanks, you’ll be wanting to stay for a few nights to get it all in. Fairbanks has accommodation options to suit every style and budget, whether you are looking for a Cozy Lodge, a unique Bed and Breakfast, a 5-Star Hotel or a rustic Cabin in the woods. We’ve listed a few of our recommendations below. To see many more accommodation options in and around Fairbanks Click Here >
Sophie Station Suites
An all inclusive hotel offering 148 suites with full kitchens and a separate bedroom. Great location within walking distance to shopping district, near airport & university.
Pikes Waterfront Lodge
Pike’s Waterfront Lodge offers comfortable rooms, many with scenic views, and cabins on the Chena River. The Lodge is next door to the famous Pike’s Landing restaurant.
Regency Hotel
Friendly, welcoming service, complimentary breakfast and 4 different room types to choose from.
Wedgewood Resort
Tucked away on 105 acres the Wedgewood Resort offers fully equipped 1 & 2 bedroom suites.
A Taste of Alaska Lodge
Experience authentic Alaska at this stunning lodge. Choose a private room, family suite, or a secluded cottage.