Top 10 Things To Do In Fairbanks, Alaska
Looking for exciting stuff to do in Fairbanks, Alaska? In this guide, discover the top 10 activities and attractions that make Fairbanks a unique destination. From witnessing the magical northern lights to relaxing in Chena Hot Springs, Fairbanks offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Fairbanks Highlights at a Glance
Fairbanks, Alaska offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and natural wonders like the northern lights and the midnight sun.
Top attractions include immersive VR experiences at Arctic Sun VR, relaxation at Chena Hot Springs Resort, and exhilarating dog sledding adventures.
The city boasts diverse seasonal activities and wildlife encounters, such as reindeer walks at Running Reindeer Ranch and birdwatching at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge.
Meet Fairbanks Alaska
Nestled in the vast wilderness of the Last Frontier, Fairbanks, often referred to as the ‘Golden Heart of Alaska,’ offers an enchanting blend of cultural heritage, pioneering spirit, and natural spectacle. With just over 100,000 residents, this vibrant community opens its arms to visitors, inviting them to experience a tapestry of modern amenities, rich Alaska Native culture, and endless outdoor activities.
As a hub city, Fairbanks offers a variety of adventures for travelers, including:
Gateway to the Arctic
Journeys to Denali National Park
Exploring the midnight sun
Witnessing the ethereal northern lights
Located at 65 degrees north latitude, Fairbanks is strategically positioned for these unique experiences. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, outdoor activities, or natural wonders, Fairbanks has something for everyone.
Discover Fairbanks Virtual Reality at Arctic Sun VR
Imagine stepping into a world where the aurora borealis dances overhead, sled dogs race across the arctic tundra, and the mysteries of the Alaska wilderness unfold before your eyes. At Arctic Sun VR, you’re transported from downtown Fairbanks into heart-racing VR adventures, making it the perfect starting point for your Alaskan journey.
Whether you’re looking for group fun in escape rooms, a unique birthday party venue, or a romantic date night activity, Arctic Sun VR offers a variety of immersive experiences that showcase the best of Fairbanks. And for the young and curious, their Summer Day Camps provide an exciting and educational way to engage with the virtual realities of the far North.
Relax at Chena Hot Springs Resort
After your virtual escapades, it’s time to unwind in the mineral-rich waters of Chena Hot Springs Resort. Here, nestled in the Chena River Valley, you can soak in the healing embrace of the hot springs, a natural wonder known for its restorative properties. Embrace the quirky side of Alaska with the frozen hair phenomenon while you relax in the thermal waters, creating memories and photos that will last a lifetime.
Beyond the soothing springs, Chena Hot Springs Resort captivates with the Aurora Ice Museum, an icy architectural marvel made from over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, where you can sip an Appletini from a glass made entirely of ice. For those seeking activity, the resort offers an array of outdoor experiences, from canoeing to horseback riding, all set against the backdrop of the picturesque Chena River State Recreation Area.
Experience Dog Sledding Adventures
Feel the rush of the Alaskan wilderness with an authentic dog sledding adventure. Fairbanks, known as the world’s mushing capital, is home to Paws for Adventure, where you can embark on a journey across the snow-covered landscape, led by a team of Alaskan sled dogs. From quick half-hour tours to multi-day expeditions, there’s a dog sledding experience for every level of thrill-seeker.
Imagine gliding through Interior Alaska’s winter wonderland, stopping at historic outposts like the Tolovana Roadhouse on an overnight trip, or learning to mush your own team at the mushing school. And when the snow melts, the adventure doesn’t stop; summer tours offer a unique twist with wheeled carts, allowing year-round excitement and the chance to meet adorable sled dog puppies.
Enjoy the Northern Lights
As dusk falls, the stage is set for one of Fairbanks’ most breathtaking spectacles: the Fairbanks northern lights. With its location directly under the Auroral Oval, Fairbanks presents one of the best stages in the world for this natural light show, especially during the long winter nights from December to March. Stepping away from the city lights to the darker outskirts, like Murphy Dome or Cleary Summit, enhances your chances of witnessing the celestial ballet.
Northern lights tours add another dimension to the experience, whether by:
bus
plane
snowmobile
dog sled
Imagine waiting in a warm yurt atop Charlie Dome, sipping hot beverages, and gazing at the night sky as it erupts in vivid colors—an experience that encapsulates the magic of an Alaskan winter. With roughly 80 percent viewing success on clear nights, the odds are in your favor for an unforgettable northern lights show.
Explore the Chena River
Flowing through the heart of Fairbanks, the Chena River is a lifeline of recreation and beauty. From peaceful canoeing to exhilarating boating, the river offers a serene escape into the Alaska wilderness. Canoe Alaska provides rentals for kayaks and bicycles, inviting you to paddle through the tranquil waters or cycle alongside the river’s banks.
Guided river cruises offer a blend of exploration and education, taking you past wildlife habitats and historical sites. In the embrace of winter, the frozen river transforms into a playground for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, ensuring the Chena River is a source of joy year-round.
Attend Local Festivals
Celebrating the spirit and history of Fairbanks, local festivals offer a vibrant glimpse into the community’s rich cultural tapestry. From the spirited Golden Days to the Midnight Sun Festival, there’s a festive atmosphere that unites locals and visitors alike. Some of the highlights include:
Donning vintage attire for the Golden Days parade
Cheering on rubber ducks in the quirky river regatta
Immersing yourself in the music and activities of the Midnight Sun Festival, which culminates in a unique baseball game under the never-setting sun.
The World Eskimo-Indian Olympics, with its traditional games and cultural displays, is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. Witness athletes compete in feats of strength, balance, and agility at the Morris Thompson Cultural event, connecting you to Alaska’s ancestral roots.
Visit Pioneer Park
Step back in time at Pioneer Park, Fairbanks’ historical theme park, where gold rush memories come alive. Sprawling across 44 acres, the park features a collection of original buildings from downtown Fairbanks, each telling a story of the city’s adventurous past. Explore the Tanana Valley Railroad Museum, board the majestic Riverboat SS Nenana, and stroll through the historic Gold Rush Town, immersing yourself in a bygone era.
Throughout the year, Pioneer Park offers a variety of attractions and events for visitors to enjoy. Some highlights include:
Gazebo Nights during the summer, featuring live music performances
Holiday lights during the winter, create a festive atmosphere
Haunted tales for a spooky experience
Carousel rides for a nostalgic touch
Rustic cabin dining for a unique dining experience
With its charm and diverse offerings, Pioneer Park is a must-visit for every Fairbanks traveler, including a visit to the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum.
Wildlife Encounters
Connect with nature through intimate wildlife encounters in Fairbanks. At Running Reindeer Ranch, you can:
Wander alongside reindeer through a lush boreal forest
Learn about the ecosystem and the animals that call it home
Experience reindeer yoga
Take photos with the reindeer
Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa
This unique experience offers an enchanting way to interact with these gentle creatures.
Bird enthusiasts will find a haven at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, where over 60 species of birds can be observed during migration seasons. Just a stone’s throw from downtown, this refuge is a peaceful oasis for birdwatching and connecting with Fairbanks’ abundant wildlife.
For a glimpse of the Arctic’s iconic mammals, the R.G. White Large Animal Research Station, located near the famous Santa Claus House, is home to herds of musk oxen and reindeer, offering a rare opportunity to observe these hardy animals up close.
Arctic Circle Tours
Embark on an Arctic Circle adventure from Fairbanks, the ideal base camp for exploring the remote beauty of Alaska’s interior. With various tours and transportation options, including the renowned Alaska Railroad, reaching the Arctic Circle has never been more accessible. The Arctic Circle Drive Adventure showcases the vast expanse of the region, taking you past the trans-Alaska pipeline, the Yukon River, and the untamed wilderness of Alaska.
Take to the skies with the Arctic Circle Air Adventure for an aerial perspective of the landscape, or experience the thrill of driving along the Dalton Highway with the Arctic Ocean Adventure. Each tour offers a distinct way to experience the Arctic tundra, whether you’re flying over it or traversing it by land. And for those chasing the aurora borealis, the Arctic Circle is an ideal backdrop for northern lights viewing, especially during the fall and winter tours.
Outdoor Activities in Every Season
In Fairbanks, the great outdoors beckons adventurers all year round. Embrace the crisp air of winter with activities like skiing at Birch Hill Recreation Area or ice fishing on a frozen lake, creating your own winter wonderland. As the midnight sun bathes the land in endless daylight from mid-May to late July, the activities shift to match the season’s vibrancy.
Some outdoor activities to enjoy in Fairbanks include:
Kayaking under the midnight sun
Hiking the Granite Tors Trail for breathtaking views
Challenging yourself on the Angel Rocks Trail
Embarking on the multi-day trek of the Chena Dome Trail, with shelter cabins along the way
No matter the time of year, Alaska Fairbanks provides a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, from the gentle glow of the aurora to the golden hues of the midnight sun.
Summary
As our journey through Fairbanks comes to a close, it’s clear that this ‘Golden Heart of Alaska’ is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. From the thrill of virtual reality and dog sledding to the tranquility of hot springs and northern lights, Fairbanks offers a symphony of adventures that resonate with the soul of every traveler.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, or adrenaline-fueled escapades, Fairbanks is a destination that promises an unforgettable journey through the beauty and mystique of Alaska. Let the spirit of adventure lead you to Fairbanks, where memories of a lifetime are forged under the glow of the aurora and the warmth of the midnight sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to view the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?
The best time to view the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is from mid-August to mid-April, with the winter months from December to March being the most favorable. Enjoy this natural wonder during the long nights of winter.
Can I experience dog sledding in Fairbanks during the summer?
Yes, you can experience dog sledding in Fairbanks during the summer by joining dog sledding tours using wheeled carts, offering a unique way to enjoy this traditional Alaskan sport.
Are there opportunities for wildlife encounters near Fairbanks?
Yes, there are several wildlife encounters near Fairbanks, such as guided walking tours with reindeer at Running Reindeer Ranch and birdwatching at Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. Enjoy exploring these opportunities!
How far is the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks, and how can I get there?
The Arctic Circle is 196 miles by car or 140 miles by air from Fairbanks. You can reach there through various transportation options, such as bus tours, flights, or the Alaska Railroad.
What local festivals can I attend in Fairbanks?
You can attend local festivals like Golden Days, Midnight Sun Festival, and the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics in Fairbanks, celebrating the city's history and cultural heritage. Enjoy the vibrant festivities!