So you're planning a trip to Fairbanks? Good call. Forget those generic "Top 10" lists you skimmed. Having spent serious time up here chasing the northern lights, freezing my fingers off dog sledding, and soaking in more hot springs than I can count, I wanna share the real deal on finding the best things to do in Fairbanks. This isn't just sightseeing; it's about experiencing Alaska's raw, beautiful Interior. Whether you're here for the midnight sun or the deep winter freeze, I've got you covered with practical info, some hard-won tips (learn from my mistakes!), and a splash of honest opinion. Let's dive into what makes this place tick.
Fairbanks Must-Do Experiences: The Heavy Hitters
Alright, let's cut to the chase. These are the core Fairbanks activities that genuinely define the place. You skip these, and did you even really visit?
Chasing the Aurora Borealis (Winter Essential)
This is why most folks brave the cold, right? Seeing the northern lights dance over Fairbanks is pure magic. Forget those blurry phone pics – seeing it live blows your mind. It’s the top thing to do in Fairbanks between late August and mid-April. Finding dark skies is key. Head out of town towards Cleary Summit, Murphy Dome, or the Chena River State Recreation Area. Tours are plentiful, but honestly? If you have a decent rental car (winter tires!) and check the aurora forecast (GI Alaska Space Science Center site is gold), DIY works great. Bundle up like you're going to Mars. Thermal layers, serious parka, mittens over gloves, face covering. Standing still gets cold fast.
Best viewing spots:
- Cleary Summit: Classic, accessible viewpoint north of town. Popular, but for good reason. Parking sometimes tricky if crowded.
- Murphy Dome: Higher elevation, potentially less crowded but windier. Requires driving up a sometimes-icy road. Check conditions.
- Chena Lakes Recreation Area: Offers open views over frozen water. Less light pollution this direction.
My tip: Book a cabin or lodge outside town (like Borealis Basecamp or A Taste of Alaska Lodge). They often alert guests when the lights start, so you don't have to drive sleepy at 2 AM. Worth the splurge for dedicated aurora hunters.
Soaking at Chena Hot Springs Resort
An hour's drive northeast of Fairbanks, this place is an institution. Picture steaming mineral water surrounded by snow-laden trees under a starry (or aurora-filled) sky. Bliss. The outdoor rock lake is the main draw.
| Info Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 17600 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712 |
| Hot Springs Hours | 7:00 AM - Midnight, 365 days/year |
| Day Pass Cost | $20 Adults (Winter Season Oct-Apr), $15 Adults (Summer Season May-Sep). Kids cheaper. Towel rental extra ($5). |
| Getting There | Drive approx. 60 miles NE on Chena Hot Springs Road (well-maintained, but drive carefully in winter). Shuttle services (~$75-$100 roundtrip per person) available from Fairbanks hotels. |
The Reality Check: Look, the resort itself feels a bit dated. Rooms are functional, not fancy. The pools can get crowded, especially on weekends. But soaking outside when it's -20°F? Pure magic. That alone makes it a top thing to do near Fairbanks. Book day passes *early* if you're not staying there. They cap numbers. The Ice Museum ($15 extra) is kinda cool for 20 minutes, but the hot springs are the star.
Dog Sledding: Feel the Rush
Experiencing the power and excitement of a dog sled team is uniquely Alaskan. Several kennels offer tours year-round – on snow in winter, on wheeled carts on dry trails in summer.
| Kennel Name | Tour Type / Duration | Approx Price (Per Person) | Contact / Booking | My Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Spruce Dog Sledding | Summer Cart Rides / Winter Snow Rides (1hr+) | $150+ | Book online essential. Popular. | Great mushers, focus on dog care. Smaller groups. |
| Paws for Adventure | Various (Short rides to multi-day) | $100 (short) - $300+ | Online booking. Also offers kennel tours. | Reputable, well-established. Good for families. |
| Just Short of Magic | Winter Only / Longer Tours | $180+ (1.5hr+) | Book well in advance. Limited runs. | Authentic Iditarod mushers. More intense experience. |
Honestly: It's pricey. No way around it. But holding on tight as the dogs take off, hearing their excitement? Unforgettable. Worth budgeting for as one of the signature things to do in Fairbanks Alaska. Wear ALL your warmest gear for winter rides – you'll be sitting still exposed to wind.
Digging into Fairbanks Culture & History
Beyond the big ticket adventures, Fairbanks has a quirky, resilient character shaped by gold, cold, and pioneers. Here's where to feel it.
Pioneer Park (Alaskaland)
This isn't your typical theme park. It's a 44-acre historic theme park celebrating Alaska's past. Free admission to walk the grounds! Pay for individual rides/museums.
- Address: 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99701
- Hours: Grounds open daylight hours year-round. Individual attractions (like the Pioneer Air Museum, Tanana Valley Railroad Museum, Miners Hall) typically open 12 PM - 8 PM, late May to early September ONLY. Restaurants/shops may have winter hours.
- Must-Sees: The SS Nenana paddlewheel boat (massive!), the Tanana Valley Railroad Museum (real gold rush train), the Gold Rush Town replica buildings. Kid favorites include the carousel and the small amusement park rides.
- Food: Try the salmon tacos at The Salmon Bake restaurant inside the park (open summer season). Solid pub grub at The Gold Rush Express.
My Take: It feels a little frozen in time (in a charming way?). Free admission makes it a great place to stroll on a summer evening. The museums are small but packed with local history gems. Don't expect Disney-level polish; expect genuine, slightly weathered Alaskan charm. Essential for understanding the town's roots.
University of Alaska Museum of the North
This architectural marvel on the UA campus houses a world-class collection of Alaskan art, history, and natural sciences.
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1962 Yukon Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775 (On UA Campus) |
| Hours | Summer (May 15 - Sep 15): 9 AM - 7 PM daily Winter (Sep 16 - May 14): 10 AM - 5:30 PM Tue-Sat (Closed Sun/Mon) |
| Admission | $17 Adults, $14 Seniors/Military, $10 Youth (5-14), Free under 5. UA Students Free. |
| Highlights | The Blue Babe ice age mummified steppe bison, stunning Alaska Native art galleries (don't miss the giant whale bone mask), the Gallery of Alaska (geology, wildlife dioramas), the earthquake simulator. |
Why Go? It’s brilliantly curated. You'll gain deep insight into the forces (natural and human) that shaped Alaska. The building itself is stunning, designed to evoke glaciers and the aurora. Plan at least 2-3 hours. Their gift shop is excellent for authentic souvenirs.
Gold Dredge 8 Tour
Get hands-on with Fairbanks' gold rush history. Ride a replica narrow-gauge railroad, learn about dredge mining, and yes, pan for gold yourself! Guaranteed to find flakes.
- Address: Mile 9.5, Old Steese Hwy N, Fairbanks, AK 99712
- Season & Hours: Mid-May to Mid-September. Tours depart several times daily, usually starting around 9:45 AM - 3:45 PM. Check website for exact schedule.
- Cost: Approx $40 Adults, $27 Children (3-12). Includes train ride, tour, gold panning (you keep what you find!).
- How to Book: Strongly recommended to book online in advance, especially for morning tours.
Fun Factor: It’s touristy, sure. But also genuinely fun and informative. The guides are characters. Panning for gold is oddly addictive, and everyone finds some. Kids love it. A solid half-day activity and a core historical thing to do in Fairbanks.
Season by Season: What Works When in Fairbanks
Fairbanks transforms dramatically. What tops your list depends entirely on when you land.
The Vibe: Deep cold, snow-covered silence, chasing auroras, embracing coziness. Temperatures regularly dip below 0°F (-18°C), hitting -30°F to -40°F (-34°C to -40°C) isn't unusual Jan-Feb. Daylight is short (about 4 hours around solstice).
Top Winter Things to Do:
- Aurora Viewing: The prime reason to visit. Requires patience, warm gear, and clear skies.
- Chena Hot Springs: Soaking in steaming water while snow falls is peak Alaska winter.
- Dog Sledding (on snow!): The authentic experience.
- Ice Fishing: Local guides drill holes on frozen lakes. Surprisingly fun, surprisingly warm in a heated hut! Try for Arctic Char or Burbot.
- Snowmobiling (Snowmachine): Guided tours blast through snowy trails. Adrenaline rush.
- World Ice Art Championships (Feb-Mar): Massive, intricate ice sculptures. Truly amazing artistry. Tickets required.
Gear is Non-Negotiable: Seriously. Thermal base layers (merino wool!), fleece or down mid-layers, a HEAVY parka (rated -20°F/-29°C or colder), insulated snow pants, serious winter boots (Baffin, Sorel), heavy mittens (not gloves!), thick wool socks, a warm hat that covers ears, a fleece neck gaiter or balaclava. Don't skimp, or you'll be miserable.
The Vibe: Energy! Endless daylight (the sun *does* technically set, but it never gets truly dark near solstice), vibrant green landscapes, rivers flowing, everything feels alive. Temperatures are mild (60s-70s°F / 15-25°C, sometimes 80s°F / high 20s°C). Bug season peaks June/early July (DEET and head nets are wise).
Top Summer Things to Do:
- Festival of the Midnight Sun (Mid-June): Parade, street fair, concerts, baseball game starting at 10 PM! Pure Fairbanks summer fun.
- Riverboat Discovery Tour: Paddlewheel cruise on the Chena and Tanana Rivers. See a bush plane demo, learn about Native cultures at a riverside village, visit Susan Butcher's Iditarod kennel. Well-organized, family-friendly.
- Hiking & Biking: Trails abound! Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge (easy trails near town), Angel Rocks Trail (moderate hike with great views), Granite Tors Trail (challenging, unique rock formations). Rent bikes from local shops.
- Fishing: Salmon runs (Kings in June, Silvers late July-August), Grayling, Pike. Guided trips or DIY along the Chena.
- Drive the Dalton Highway: Brave the "Haul Road" as far as the Arctic Circle (requires preparation - spare tire, extra gas, caution!). Tours available.
- Pioneer Park & Gold Dredge 8: Both fully operational.
- Dog Sledding (on carts): Still fun, lets you meet the dogs.
The Vibe: Transitional, potentially muddy ("breakup" in spring), stunning fall foliage (golden birch, fiery willow). Less predictable weather. Fewer crowds. Aurora season kicks off late August!
Shoulder Season Perks:
- Northern Lights Return (Late Aug-April): Early season auroras without the deepest cold.
- Fall Colors (Late Aug - Mid Sep): Drive Chena Hot Springs Road or the Steese Highway for spectacular displays.
- Lower Prices & Fewer Crowds: Lodging and tours often cheaper, more availability.
- Potential for Varied Activities: Might catch late-season canoeing or early ice skating, depending on temps.
The Catch: Weather can be fickle. Road conditions change rapidly. Some attractions (like riverboat tours, Gold Dredge 8, Pioneer Park attractions) have limited or no operations outside peak summer/winter. Double-check opening dates!
Fueling Up: Fairbanks Food & Drink Spots I Actually Like
Fairbanks isn't a culinary capital, but it has gems focusing on hearty portions and local ingredients. Here's where I send friends:
- The Turtle Club (Salcha, just south of town): Famous for prime rib. Massive cuts, old-school vibe. Expect a wait. Reservations essential. $$$. Address: Mile 10.5 Old Richardson Hwy, Salcha.
- The Bakery: Fairbanks institution for breakfast and lunch. Giant cinnamon rolls, solid sandwiches, pies. Bustling local spot. No frills, good value. Open 6 AM - 4 PM daily. Address: 69 College Rd.
- Lavelle's Bistro: The closest to "fine dining" downtown. Creative dishes, good wine list. Nice for a special meal. $$$. Address: 575 1st Ave.
- Thai House Restaurant: Reliably good Thai food. Huge portions. Busy, popular. Pad Thai is solid. $$. Address: 412 5th Ave.
- Hoodoo Brewing Company: Best local brewery. Great taproom vibe, quality beers. Often has food trucks parked outside. Address: 1951 Fox Ave.
- The Crepery: Fantastic sweet and savory crepes. Cozy spot, great coffee. Perfect breakfast or lunch. $. Address: 535 2nd Ave.
One Disappointment: That highly-rated steakhouse downtown? Overcooked my expensive cut last visit. Service was slow. Won't name names, but do your research beyond the top Google listing.
Navigating Fairbanks: Getting Around & Staying Put
Practicalities matter. Here's the lowdown.
Getting There
- By Air: Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) is the main gateway. Alaska Airlines and Delta have direct flights from Seattle, Anchorage (frequent), and seasonally from Minneapolis, Chicago. Smaller carriers serve bush communities.
- By Road: The Parks Highway connects Fairbanks to Anchorage (approx 6-7 hours drive). The Richardson Highway connects to Valdez. The Alaska Highway passes nearby Tok. Driving distances are vast – plan accordingly.
- By Rail: The Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train runs weekends Anchorage-Fairbanks mid-Sept to mid-May. The daily Denali Star Train runs Anchorage-Fairbanks via Denali mid-May to mid-Sept. Scenic but slower than driving.
Getting Around
- Rental Car: The most flexible option by far, especially outside downtown. Essential for aurora chasing, Chena Hot Springs, exploring. BOOK WELL IN ADVANCE, especially summer and winter peak season. Get winter tires (studded preferred) Oct-Apr. All-wheel drive is wise year-round.
- Public Bus (MACS): Limited routes and schedules, mostly covering major corridors in town. Not practical for most tourist activities. $2 per ride.
- Taxis & Ride Shares: Available, but can be expensive for longer distances (like the airport to downtown is $25-$35). Not reliable for late-night aurora chasing.
- Tours: Many activities (aurora viewing, dog sledding, hot springs) offer pickup/drop-off from major hotels. Very convenient for those specific outings.
My Advice: Rent a car. Seriously. Fairbanks is spread out, and the best things to do in Fairbanks often involve getting out of the city center. That freedom is worth it.
Where to Stay (Quick Comparison)
| Type | Pros | Cons | Examples | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Hotels | Walkable to restaurants/shops. Near visitor center. | Can be noisy. Limited parking (often fee). Not central to many activities. | Westmark Fairbanks, SpringHill Suites | $$ - $$$ |
| Airport Area Hotels | Close to airport. Shuttles usually free. Often newer/more amenities (pools). | Requires driving/taxi to downtown. Generic chain feel. | Pike's Waterfront Lodge, Hampton Inn, Wedgewood Resort | $$ - $$$ |
| Cabins / B&Bs | More character, local feel. Often quieter. Some offer aurora viewing onsite. | Spread out, requiring car. Fewer amenities (may lack restaurant). Book early. | A Taste of Alaska Lodge, Bear Lodge at Wedgewood, Aurora Borealis Lodge | $$ - $$$$ |
| Chena Hot Springs Resort | Onsite hot springs! Ideal for aurora viewing immersion. Unique experience. | 1 hour from town. Rooms basic for price. Limited dining options. | Chena Hot Springs Resort | $$$ - $$$$ |
| Vacation Rentals | Space, kitchens, home-like feel. Can be cost-effective for groups. | Quality varies. Cleaning fees. May lack services. Need car. | VRBO & Airbnb options | $ - $$$$ |
Where I Stay: For convenience on short trips, the airport area hotels work. For a real Fairbanks feel and aurora potential, a cabin or lodge outside the city lights wins every time. Pike's Waterfront Lodge has that classic Alaskan lodge vibe right on the river and is often a good balance.
Fairbanks FAQs: Stuff People Really Want to Know
Based on countless conversations with other travelers and locals, here are the real burning questions about things to do in Fairbanks:
- Aurora: Late Aug/Sept/Oct & Late Feb/Mar/Apr (good dark skies, less extreme cold than Jan).
- Winter Activities (without *only* aurora focus): Dec-Feb (coldest, snowiest).
- Midnight Sun & Summer Activities: Mid-June to Mid-July (peak sunlight, warmest, busiest, buggiest).
- Shoulder Season Value: May & Sept (potentially fewer crowds, lower prices, potential for some activities from both seasons, unpredictable weather).
Fairbanks gets under your skin. It’s not polished, but it's powerfully real. You come for the bucket-list moments like the aurora, but you leave remembering the resilience of the place and the people, the quiet beauty of a frozen forest, the taste of fresh salmon by the river. Pack your sense of adventure (and your warmest socks), ditch the rigid itinerary, and embrace whatever the Alaska Interior throws your way. Finding your own favorite things to do in Fairbanks is half the fun. Hope this honest guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. Drive safe, stay warm, and keep looking up!
Comment