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Fairbanks, located in northern Alaska and serving as a gateway to the Arctic region, is famously referred to as the “land of the midnight sun.” During the summer months, Fairbanks experiences long stretches of daylight, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. However, winter brings about a different scenario, characterized by limited daylight and freezing temperatures. Despite these challenges, adventurous explorers who yearn to witness the mesmerizing northern lights are encouraged to embrace the darkness and cold for an extraordinary display of nature’s beauty.
Discover the fascinating history, native Inuit culture, and diverse wildlife of the region by starting your journey at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center. This vibrant hub not only serves as the official visitor center but also offers a wealth of information about local attractions, maps, and captivating historical artifacts. If you’re intrigued by the area’s gold rush heritage, make your way to Pioneer Park.
For an extraordinary experience, venture slightly outside the city to the family-owned Running Reindeer Ranch. Here, you can embark on a guided nature walk and get acquainted with Rudolph’s relatives while learning intriguing facts about Santa’s trusty reindeer companions. After a fulfilling day of exploration, reward yourself with a delectable meal at one of Fairbanks’ charming riverfront restaurants, renowned for their mouthwatering Alaskan salmon and king crab dishes.
Alternatively, mingle with the friendly locals at HooDoo Brewing Company, their beloved watering hole. Indulge in refreshing beverages and immerse yourself in the warm community atmosphere. Fairbanks beckons with a plethora of enriching experiences and delightful surprises.
Fairbanks offers the best experience from July to August. It’s also great to visit during the shoulder seasons of May to June and August through September. While peak season has higher prices and larger crowds, it rewards you with the warmest weather, with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees. If you want to save money and still enjoy pleasant and cool weather, late spring and early fall are perfect. To get the lowest rates, plan your visit during the offseason, which starts after Labor Day and goes until Memorial Day. If witnessing the northern lights is your main goal, late fall and winter are the best times for peak viewing.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in Fairbanks. Choose your favorite!
Fairbanks is known for its captivating natural phenomenon, the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. This stunning display of lights takes place under the “aurora oval” from late September to early April. To fully experience this …
Located east of Fairbanks, the Chena River State Recreation Area attracts many visitors during the summer. It provides opportunities for activities like hiking, kayaking, fishing, and camping. In the winter, locals enjoy ski touring and snow …
The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is not just for car enthusiasts. It features over 85 cars from before World War II, each with its own historical significance or technological innovation. But what sets this museum apart are the displays of …
The University of Alaska Fairbanks has a lovely spot called the Georgeson Botanical Garden. It’s under the care of the School of Natural Resources and Extension. This garden is well-known across the country and was actually founded by Christian …
Bobby Milken, a Fairbanks native, established HooDoo Brewing Company with the aim of providing traditional English, German, Belgian, and American-style beers. The brewery’s taproom has an open design that allows guests to observe the brewing process …
When you’re in Fairbanks and looking for things to do, the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is a fantastic place to start. You can visit this center to get maps and information about the area. They have interesting exhibits that cover …
Pioneer Park, spanning 44 acres, is a unique blend of theme park and historic park. It was constructed to commemorate the centennial anniversary of Alaska’s acquisition from Russia. The park offers an intriguing journey through Fairbanks’ history …
Looking to purchase qiviut? Qiviut is the cozy underwool produced by musk oxen, and it’s highly valued for its excellent insulation. You can find this luxurious material at the Robert G. White Large Animal Research Station, situated at the …
Just north of Fairbanks in the Goldstream Valley, you’ll find a charming family-owned farm nestled in the boreal forest. Step into nature’s embrace as you join the family on a guided walk through the forest alongside their friendly reindeer …
This museum is located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus and it’s the only research and teaching museum in the state. It has over 1.4 million artifacts and specimens, including Alaskan art that covers more than 2,000 years. The art …