THINGS TO DO IN
FAIRBANKS, ALASKA

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

Aurora viewing
Aurora in Fairbanks

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

Chena Hot Springs
Chena Ice Bar

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

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of Fairbanks Visitor Center

Fairbanks Visitor Center

World-class exhibits celebrating the people, land and culture of Interior Alaska, Native art, music, stories & dance.

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of Fairbanks Museum of the North

Museum of the North

Dramatic architecture and fascinating exhibits tell the stories of Alaska’s diverse wildlife, people, and lands.

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image Big Stampede Saloon in Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park & Museum

Historical theme park with museums, shops, food & picnic areas.

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Riverboat Discovery

Board the Riverboat Discovery for a unique Alaskan experience.

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of stained glass window at Fairbanks Childrens Museum.

Fairbanks Childrens Museum

Museum with interactive exhibits designed for young people.

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of Freshwater Aquarium at Tanana Valley Fisheries Center

Tanana Valley Fisheries Center

Freshwater aquarium, exhibits, state-of-the-art sport fish hatchery.

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of Exterior of Alaska House Art Gallery

Alaska House Art Gallery

Authentic Alaskan Native art exhibits in an historic log house.

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of Vintage Planes inside the Pioneer Air Museum

The Pioneer Air Museum

Museum exhibiting Aviation History of Interior & Arctic Alaska

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of Train at Tanana Valley Railroad Museum

Tanana Valley Railroad Museum

Learn how this railroad played a role in Fairbanks’ first industry.

Things to do in Fairbanks - Image of exhibit at the Fairbanks Auto Museum

Antique Auto Museum

A stunning display of historically significant Alaska automobiles.

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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.

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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

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of people fishing in a river

Fishing

Experience world class river fishing near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of a reindeer on Running Reindeer Ranch

Reindeer Ranch

Go on a nature walk with reindeer from Running Reindeer Ranch.

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of Moose Mountain Ski Resort

Moose Mountain

Ski Area close to town with intermediate and advanced terrain.

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of Gold Dredge No.8

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.

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Arctic Circle

Visit the Arctic Circle and enjoy beautiful scenery & wildlife along the way.

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of scenery on the journey to the Arctic Ocean

Arctic Ocean

Travel along the James Dalton Highway to Prudhoe Bay and the Arctic Ocean.

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Denali Park

Visit spectacular Denali National Park and participate in outdoor activities.

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of a Moose.

Wildlife Viewing

Spot Moose, Beavers, Squirrels, Hares, Dall Sheep, Birds and more.

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of scenery, green fields, wildflowers

Hiking

There is an abundance of hiking trails around Fairbanks.

Rafting

Drift one of the Alaska Interiors spectacular rivers in a raft.

Things to do near Fairbanks - Image of person Ice Fishing in a hut

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 >

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Lavelles Bistro

Lavelles Bistro is a Fairbanks fine dining sensation, with globally influenced food and an extensive wine cellar.

Where to eat in Fairbanks - The Turtle Club logo.

The Turtle Club

Rustic Fine Dining with an Alaskan atmosphere. Prime Rib, Seafood & Cocktails. Reservations recommended.

Where to eat in Fairbanks - Image of Banks Alehouse Food and Beverage

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.

Where to eat in Fairbanks - Image of Lamb Rump at The Pump House

The Pump House

Fine Dining overlooking the Chena River. Prime aged beef, Alaska seafood, premium wine list, and microbrews.

Where to eat in Fairbanks - Image of Hot Roll and Beer from Friar Tucks Hoagie House

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 >

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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.

Where to stay in Fairbanks - Image of Pikes Waterfront Lodge

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.

Where to stay in Fairbanks - Image of Regency Hotel

Regency Hotel

Friendly, welcoming service, complimentary breakfast and 4 different room types to choose from.

Where to stay in Fairbanks - Image of Wedgewood Resort

Wedgewood Resort

Tucked away on 105 acres the Wedgewood Resort offers fully equipped 1 & 2 bedroom suites.

where to stay in fairbanks, image of A Taste of Alaska Lodge

A Taste of Alaska Lodge

Experience authentic Alaska at this stunning lodge. Choose a private room, family suite, or a secluded cottage.

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