If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable Alaskan experience, look no further than Fairbanks. From dogsledding through the forests to taking a scenic flight over the city, there’s something for everyone in this charming northern town.
Here are our top picks for the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Fairbanks is a city that’s as big on outdoor adventures as well as culture. With its location in the middle of Alaska, Fairbanks provides plenty of opportunities for people to explore nature’s wonders.
You’ll find everything from ice caves to glaciers and even a natural hot spring at which you can soak your bones after a long hike through the wilderness.
There’s something for everyone in this beautiful Alaskan town, so be sure to check out all the activities Fairbanks has to offer during your visit.
If you’re chasing such an ideal vacation in Alaska, start planning your trip, book a flight, and hope that this guide will help you plan that excellent travel itinerary in interior Alaska.
Let’s get into the top attractions and things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Best Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska
1. Museum of the North
Address: 1962 Yukon Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775, United States
Fairbanks is full of great destinations to explore, and one of them is the Museum of the North. It is a fascinating museum located right on the University of Alaska – Fairbanks campus.
The museum has fantastic remarkable architecture and wonderful must see-exhibits that make the museum a great destination and one of the best tourist attractions of the town.
It is a beautiful home to over 2.5 million artifacts, displays, and specimens. The Museum of the North exhibits features the fascinating Alaska Native cultures, the beautiful, diverse wildlife, and the picturesque sceneries of the town.
The exhibits highlight Alaska art, Rose Berry Alaska art, virtual presentations, artifacts, World War II Aleut evacuation exhibit, and the state’s Largest Public Display of Gold.
The relics of the Arctic dinosaurs are also one of the highlights and great exhibit features to see in this fantastic campus museum. History and art buffs will enjoy touring around and checking out each incredible display the museum showcases.
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2. See the Northern Lights
There are few things more magical than seeing the Northern Lights. The natural phenomenon is caused by the solar wind interacting with Earth’s magnetic field, and it’s visible from Alaska, Canada, and Europe.
The best time to see the Northern Lights is in winter (October through April). The Fairbanks area is one of the best places in North America for viewing the Northern Lights.
There are several Northern Lights tours that will take you out into the Alaskan wilderness where you can experience all things aurora in the heart of interior Alaska.
3. Visit Denali National Park and Preserve
Address: Parks Hwy, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK, United States
Denali National Park is Alaska’s best-known attraction, and it should be on your list of things to do in Fairbanks. Denali National Park and Preserve encompasses a large swath of land around Mount Denali (which formerly was called Mount McKinley), the tallest peak in North America at 20,320 feet above sea level.
While you can’t climb up to the top of Denali on your own (it requires proper training and equipment), you don’t have to go all the way up there to have an incredible experience: hiking trails abound throughout Denali National Park, so packing your hiking gear is a must.
There are also plenty of other activities available for travelers who want something more than just nature; one option is taking an excursion into nearby Talkeetna by taking the Alaska Railroad and the “Denali Star” passenger service.
The Alaska Railroad departs from Fairbanks each day at 7 pm and stops along the way in Anchorage before arriving at its final destination in downtown Talkeetna by 12 am—just enough time for some fun after dinner. From Talkeetna, you can take a helicopter tour of Denali, which is an unbelievable experience.
If this sounds like a good time but you’re concerned about getting back home afterward, fret not: there’s also an option where passengers can get picked up at 4 am by bus instead (and vice versa).
See Related: Best National Parks in America
4. Riverboat Discovery
Address: 1975 Discovery Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
Looking for an ideal destination to experience fun and do an array of great outdoor activities in Fairbanks is within reach in Riverboat Discovery. It is an excellent must-do activity that provides a fantastic adventure for families.
The Riverboat Discovery tour features an array of activities, from discovering Chena Indian Village Living Museum to witnessing Bush Pilot Demonstration, discovering the Trail Breaker Kennel, and exploring the Steamboat Landing.
A lovely place for a family to bond, learn about the fascinating ancient Athabascan Indian culture and see incredible champion sled dogs of Iditarod winner Susan Butcher in action.
Learning culture, appreciating nature’s beauty, discovering Alaska, and knowing what makes it different from the other states are some of the things to behold when visiting Riverboat Discovery.
Cruising is also one of the highlights of exploring this incredible tourist attraction.
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5. Take a day trip to the North Pole
There are few places in the world as remote and exciting as the North Pole, Alaska. A tiny town of just over 2,000 people, North Pole is located about 20 minutes south of Fairbanks on the Richardson Highway and is home to Santa Claus House—the official gift shop for the real Santa Claus.
Join a snowmobile tour to explore the North Pole.
The town itself has a small-town feel but offers plenty of entertainment for visitors looking for something more than just shopping at Santa’s house. From snowmobiling and dogsledding to fishing and hiking, there’s something for everyone in this quaint little village.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Wasilla, Alaska
6. World Ice Art Championships – Ice Alaska
Address: 1800 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
Visiting Fairbanks won’t let every visitor down, for it has many great attractions to see, where the World Ice Art Championship is one of the great spots not to miss in town.
It is a great place to see outstanding and world-class ice sculptures.
Ice-Alaska, a non-profit organization, produced this fantastic contest that started in 1989, continuously running today, showcasing mesmerizing ice sculptures.
Every year there are over a hundred sculptures participated in the World Ice Art Championships from 30 countries.
The sculptures made in the competition are showcased to the public to see and enjoy incredible ice work.
It is secured at the center of Alaska, where the most prestigious and remarkable ice competition is held, where each artwork is admired, loved, and presented.
It is an ideal destination for every art enthusiast and tourist looking for a unique travel destination to see the wonders of nature and the snow, witness talent, and behold various masterpieces.
7. Aurora Ice Museum
Address: 17600 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States
The Aurora Ice Museum is a slice of Alaska that you won’t want to miss. The museum, which is located at the Chena Hot Springs Resort in Fairbanks, Alaska, has been open since May 1st and will remain open until September 30th.
The museum features three ice sculptures that depict Alaska’s history, culture, and wildlife. These sculptures are illuminated by blue lighting during the day and red lights at night—both of which are synced with music being played throughout the museum.
Aurora Ice Museum also has an indoor ice maze that you can walk through while listening to stories about Alaska’s history. You’ll find yourself immersed in facts about dog sledding as well as glaciers while walking through this maze.
8. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
Address: 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
History and automobile lovers will enjoy the lovely museum in Fairbanks, Alaska, for Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum provides an array of exciting stories and displays of interesting historic cars.
It is a beautiful museum that houses pre-World War II automobiles. Antique Auto Museum has over 95 historic automobiles and 65 to 75 of its collection were rare.
This Alaska museum offers an entertaining guided tour wherein each piece of the historic automobile the guide provides exciting facts and background.
The exhibit does not showcase antique autos but also accompanied it with accessories, vintage photographs, and videos that make the tour more enjoyable.
A variety of world-class collections of classic and vintage cars within the museum is a sight to behold.
Some of the collections that can be found in Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum were the 1898 Hay Motor Vehicle and the rare auto of 1906. Get your admission ticket and tour the museum.
9. See the Midnight Sun
The midnight sun is a phenomenon that occurs in the summer months and lasts for about a month. During this time, the sun never fully sets but instead hovers just below the horizon. This gives you plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors with friends, family, and loved ones in a beautiful setting.
Taking advantage of the midnight sun can mean many different things! You can go camping under the stars or fish on a lake that would be frozen over at other times during the summer months.
If you’re more adventurous, you could even go hiking or biking through some beautiful landscapes that belong exclusively to Alaska.
10. Alaska Pipeline Viewing Point
Address: 1671 Steese Hwy, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States
One of the great tourist attractions to see in Fairbanks and Alaska is the Alaska Pipeline Viewing Point. The state is known to have the world’s finest and most skilled engineers, and the pipeline viewpoint of Alaska is excellent proof of this.
It is an extensive massive pipeline in Alaska that reaches over 800 miles passing mountains, wildness, and some state cities.
It becomes one of the most fantastic attractions in Alaska due to its lights, vastness, and contribution to the state.
Its history of taking overtook 70,000 construction workers, and a significant amount of investment to build makes the pipe more interesting.
The Alaska Pipeline Viewing Point provides a great view of the extensive above-ground pipe display.
Sceneries of the pipe, as well as the fascinating backdrop of Alaska’s beauty, add to the reason why it is one of the great attractions not to miss in town and in Alaska.
Outdoor Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska
11. Moose Antler Arch
Address: Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
In the lovely town of Fairbanks in Alaska, a magnificent arch can be found, the Moose Antler Arch. Based on its name, it is an arch made from a collection of Moose antlers.
It is situated in the northern part of the Chena River. There are over 100 different types of antlers dangling and remarkably decorated in the arch where the centerpiece is a skull.
It is one of the best attractions not to miss when booking a flight to Alaska and visiting this wonderful state. The Moose Antler Arch represents the culture in Alaska as well as the rich history of game hunting.
Most of the antlers decorated into the arch are from donations from farmers and hunters across the town and Alaska.
The arch is made to represent the culture and history of Fairbanks but also to bring attention. As the Moose Antler Arch is perched within the area of Chena River, it has a beautiful backdrop of nature.
The ideal location of the arch makes it more attractive to tourists and locals, and lovers looking for a unique place to exchange vows.
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12. Pioneer Park
Address: 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
Looking for an incredible spot to visit and enjoy has a lot to offer found in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Pioneer Park. It is a must-see park, museum, and historical spot in town.
This lovely Historical theme park is a great place to learn, have fun, do a variety of recreational activities, and indulge in a fascinating walk in the past experience.
Pioneer Park has a land area of 44 acres, housing a variety of exciting things, attractions, and Alaska’s historical pieces 100 years ago to discover.
As a part of the ’67 Centennial Exposition of Alaska, the park opened its doors to the public in 1967.
It has rides, museums, displays, and a zoo to enjoy. Pioneer Park is a one-stop-shop, for, in one place, it has lots to offer from sceneries, fascinating history, activities, and exciting rides.
Getting hungry while enjoying the park is not a problem, for many restaurants serve great meals.
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13. Go hiking and camping in the Chena River State Recreation Area
Address: 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
Chena River State Recreation Area is a great place to hike and camp. Chena River flows into the Tanana River, which eventually joins with the Yukon River. The Chena River State Recreation Area is a recreational area that covers 397 square miles along the Chena River.
The recreational area attracts over 150,000 visitors each year and is home to numerous species of wild animals such as wolves. Catch/release fishing is permitted on the river at three lakes while walking and climbing can take place near Granite Tors.
Dog sledding, skiing, and snowmaking are common winter activities, while there are many options for boating and swimming in the summertime. Chena Hot Springs Resort is located within the recreation area and offers cabins, RV sites, a mineral pool, and a day spa.
Additionally, Chena Lakes Recreation Area is a man-made lake that offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and picnicking.
There are also many interpretive trails that provide information about the history and culture of Fairbanks. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous or relaxing getaway, Chena River State Recreation Area has something for everyone.
14. Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary
Address: 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
Looking for a serene, lovely, and picturesque place to visit in the beautiful town of Fairbanks in Alaska is achievable in the Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary.
It is a beautiful nature preserve owned by the Wedgewood Resort that houses scenic landscapes and is home to the remarkable diverse wildlife in Alaska.
This wildlife sanctuary is situated in an ideal place where it is following and connected to the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge.
The Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary provides excellent natural scenery, a variety of reactional activities, and wildlife viewing. From an ideal location, the sanctuary offers a perfect opportunity to hike, bike, or stroll within the matured beauty due to the great trails it has.
The wildlife to spot and record in this fascinating sanctuary is over 120 remarkable bird species and mammals of over 15 kinds.
An extensive number of insects, fishes, and one enthralling amphibian were also some of the exciting wildlife to see in the sanctuary.
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15. Friends of Creamers Field at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
Address: 1300 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge is a tranquil, peaceful, and charming site to visit in the delightful town of Fairbanks, Alaska. It is a migratory wildlife refuge in Fairbanks, Alaska.
The refuge is a nonprofit organization that offers great family programs and educational opportunities about the wildlife that can be spotted in this interesting place.
It is established in 1991 with a set of great wetlands, pastures, and woodlands within the refuge’s 2,200-acre.
It becomes home to a variety of migratory birds. It is a lovely place for those who want to seek outdoor activities, visit the bird sanctuary and explore Alaska’s countryside.
Aside from being a lovely sanctuary, it is also a dairy farm that provides an excellent opportunity to explore nature and spot different kinds of birds from bird watching.
The place also educates visitors about nature, its conservation, awareness, and the wildlife to see in Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge.
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16. Georgeson Botanical Garden
Address: 2180 W Tanana Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
One of the beautiful places to check out in Fairbanks is the Georgeson Botanical Garden. It is a public place and garden that is situated within the campus of the great University of Fairbanks.
An ideal place to enjoy a peaceful and lovely walk in the town where the beauty of nature encircles and is within reach.
The garden is first researched and used for educational purposes kind of program of the university in 1987. Later on, it becomes one of the town’s top tourist destinations. Georgeson Botanical Garden is known to be Fairbanks’s oasis.
This charming oasis has an astonishing collection of some of Alaska’s 3,000 flowers. Different flowers, trees, vegetables, and plants like herbs and bushes can be seen in the beautiful garden.
This botanic garden is a nationally recognized garden due to the plant collection, culture, and conservation it does. It is also a part of the network of educational and research institutions for plants.
Free Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska
17. Golden Heart Plaza
Address: 516 1st Ave #500, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
Fairbanks is a beautiful town to visit in Alaska, for it holds many great must-see destinations and attractions, and one of them is the Golden Heart Plaza.
It is a fascinating downtown park in the town built from the Fairbanks community’s donations and completed in 1987. The park provides a variety of excellent and engaging recreational activities for families to enjoy as well as for individuals looking for an ideal place to have fun.
It is also a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and delightful walk with incredible scenery to see.
Golden Heart Plaza features fantastic natural sceneries but also a fascinating clock tower, a statue, and a space for hosting events. During summer, the chance of seeing bands playing live or artists performing live in the park is high.
In winter, it is wrapped with snow and has a lot of sparkling white lights. A large enough park was created for the community to enjoy and used as a community event place for almost Fairbanks downtown celebrations.
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18. Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center
Address: 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
Visiting Alaska to see its fantastic sceneries is excellent, but it is ideal to see its beautiful sights as well as learn about its land, culture, and more.
Morris Thompson Cultural Center & Visitors Center, what a tourist needs to know is presented here. It is known as the visitor center and an excellent museum located in Fairbanks, Alaska.
When you visit Fairbanks, don’t forget to visit this free-of-charge Visitor Center, which is not to be missed. This visitor center is popular with history enthusiasts and people who are interested in other cultures.
The history, information, and culture of native Alaska are presented here.
An educational place great for family and friends for it offers not only displays but also fun, engaging activities to experience and cultural events.
The cultural center is named after Morris Thompson, an Athabascan tribal leader who was instrumental in the development of tourism in the state and was born in Fairbanks in 1937.
To be a lively gathering space for people of all cultures is what Morris Thompson Cultural Center & Visitors Center aims as well as to learn, appreciate, and respect one another.
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19. Explore Fairbanks
Address: 101 Dunkel St #111, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
The lovely town of Fairbanks in Alaska is remarkably full of exciting things to do, from great outdoor activities to a set of fun indoor activities to enjoy. One of the great indoor activities to do in town is to visit and check out Explore Fairbanks.
It is an excellent visitor center that provides great information about the city and an ideal place to seek knowledge and learn about Fairbanks in one town.
Explore Fairbanks provides extensive travel information about the town, from Fairbanks’s history to the culture and the attraction to see and expect.
Visiting the center is like touring the whole city, and its interests for everything about Fairbanks are here.
The center is like an extensive travel directory and itinerary of the town where travel information is given from the best time to visit, what time and where to see the midnight sun or the Aurora Borealis, and the best place to tour in town.
See Related: Best Restaurants in Fairbanks, Alaska
Fun Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska
20. Relax at Chena Hot Springs
Address: Chena Hot Springs Road Fairbanks, Alaska, 99711
Located just outside of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a long day. The resort offers an array of amenities including a variety of pools, spas, saunas, and even an on-site restaurant.
While this may sound like any other spa in America, Chena Hot Springs offers something different: a natural hot spring that flows directly into the resort’s pools.
There are multiple options for guests including private cabins and tent camping sites as well as RV hookups if you’re looking for more comfort.
The resort also features private rooms with en suite bathrooms if you’re traveling with your partner or family members who don’t want to share one large bathroom with strangers (or friends).
Chena Hot Springs is open 24 hours per day from May through September which allows guests plenty of time during daylight hours to enjoy all their activities without needing flashlights or lanterns!
In addition to swimming, there are hiking trails nearby so bring extra layers if planning on strolling around while enjoying nature at its finest.
21. Things to do with Kids: Fairbanks Children’s Museum
Address: 302 Cushman St Suite 101, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
Outdoor activity is not the only experience to have fun in Fairbanks, Alaska but also engaging indoor activities for families to enjoy. Such activities were offered in the charming spot of Fairbanks Children’s Museum.
It is a great family attraction where kids can have fun all day long. Adults can also see many impressive displays, for the museum offers an array of engaging activities and exhibits to enjoy.
Fairbanks Children’s Museum features interactive play equipment and displays for kids not only to have but also to learn and practice problem-solving and strengthen their creativity through play.
It has a climber where kids can improve motor skills, a unique table for improving sensory, a lab for building and creativity, and more.
Even though it is a museum for children’s adults and all the community can also enjoy the museums, it has a museum of all its features for free.
The museum’s goal is for children to have a fun play experience as well as to learn and improve skills at the same time.
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22. Go dog sledding or learn about the history
Dog sledding is a must-do activity when visiting Fairbanks in the winter. A guided dog sledding tour with experienced mushers will take you through the beautiful winter scenery, and you’ll get to meet the friendly dogs who love to Mush.
Black Spruce dog sledding runs about 45 minutes from downtown Fairbanks and provides tour lengths from one to three hours.
During the season, the dogs will even drive your four-person vehicle onto utility terrain. In winter, you can also walk scenic paths through thick black pine forests. So get on the road and ride your bike – dog sledding is an experience you won’t want to miss.
23. Arctic Tours and Polar Bear Viewing
If you enjoy being out on the water, but want a little more action and excitement than simply fishing or boating, try Arctic Tours and Polar Bear Viewing.
These tours of the Arctic Circle are great for people who want to get up close and personal with wild animals while staying safe.
Arctic Tours takes you out on the water in search of whales and other marine life directly on the Arctic Circle. If you’re lucky enough to see any whales (which are especially visible during springtime), your guide will give you plenty of time to admire their beauty before continuing on with your tour.
The tour lasts about three hours, so if there aren’t any whales around at first glance don’t worry—there will be plenty of time left for them.
For those looking for something a little more adventurous than just watching from above as nature goes about its daily business (although that’s still pretty cool), then this is definitely the tour for you.
In addition to seeing whales up close, Arctic Tours also allows guests access to their underwater viewing rooms where they can watch orcas swim freely through ice slicks or even swim underneath boats like ours were doing.
We were able to see several orcas during our excursion; some large adult males were even seen fighting off smaller juveniles who tried stealing fish away from them!
24. Fun Things to do in Fairbanks with Kids: Running Reindeer Ranch
Address: 1470 Ivans Alley, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
Running Reindeer Ranch is the perfect place to get up close and personal with some of Alaska’s most iconic animals.
The family-run farm offers a variety of tour packages that allow visitors to interact with the resident reindeer, learn about their care and habits, and even enjoy a ride through the stunning boreal forest.
Led by an expert guide, the tours of Running Reindeer Ranch offer a unique opportunity to see the amazingly diverse wildlife of the region and even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
And for those looking for a truly immersive experience, the ranch also offers seasonal tours that include stays in cozy cabins, all-natural meals made with vegetables from their own organic garden, and plenty of opportunities to stargaze and enjoy the tranquility of the Alaskan wilderness.
25. 1st Alaska Outdoor School
Address: 2240 Hanson Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
Those seeking a great outdoor activity will enjoy the 1st Alaska Outdoor School. It’s one of the grand tours in Fairbanks, Alaska. A mild to action-filled kind of adventure is offered here. Where a variety of fun outdoor activities in the snow can be achieved.
Different tourist destinations are included in this tour that matches a great outdoor adventure, such as experiencing a racing kennel and learning about the ack ground, history, and culture of these sports.
What makes 1st Alaska Outdoor School different from the other is that racing kennel, taking training trails, and enjoying the night’s trip under the beautiful aurora are memorable.
It showcases and proves that traveling in Alaska is worth it, where the craving for coming back again will be there.
1st Alaska Outdoor School, as its name says, offers outdoor activities and teachings on different outdoor Alaskan activities, especially on how to do such activities while encircled by the beauty of the wilderness.
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26. Aurora Pointe
Address: 570 Funk Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States
The extraordinary spot of Aurora Pointe in Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the top destinations to visit in town. It is a local event place here; the community and tourists can enjoy and behold the beauty of Alaska as well as breathe aurora borealis.
This lovely destination is ideal for couples looking for a perfect place to exchange vows and families to celebrate beautiful occasions.
Aurora Pointe is private land with about 280 acres, ideal for a private, gallant, scenic, and classic occasion. It is an intimate destination to have a romantic dinner or a simple stroll engulfed by Alaska’s mesmerizing beauty.
Winter season of the best time to visit this lovely destination of the incredible views of picturesque sceneries to behold if highlighted.
At this time, the aurora borealis is up close and fascinatingly a beautiful sight to remember. An astonishing spot not to miss when visiting Fairbanks and Alaska.
27. Northern Alaska Tour Company
Address: 3820 University Ave S, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
When not decided or having a hard time preparing a great travel itinerary in Fairbanks, Alaska, the Northern Alaska Tour Company is ready to help. It is a tour agency that is willing to help travelers plan a great trip in town.
Highlights of the Northern Alaska Tour Company are traveling and exploring the beauty of Alaska’s Arctic Circle.
There are choices of length of excursion a trip can take in this company. It could be a one-day or a multi-day Alaska Arctic excursion. It is ideal for travelers who love outdoor activities and exploring destinations out in the wilderness.
Take on an adventure to see the aurora borealis (Northern Lights), Arctic Circle, Denali National Park, ice fishing, and more to discover. Some tours can come across and mix, but some don’t.
Nevertheless, the guided tour provided a great adventure and safety for it has been running for years from 1986 to the present.
28. Castner Glacier Ice Caves
Address: Milepost 217.3, Richardson Hwy, Delta Junction, AK 99737, United States
The Castner Glacier Ice Caves are located in the Chugach Mountains, just south of Anchorage. The caves are a popular destination for hikers and climbers and offer a unique opportunity to explore an ice cave up close.
The caves were formed when a glacier receded, leaving behind a series of caves and tunnels. They are a great way to see the incredible Alaska range as well as the impact that glaciers can have on our natural resources and environment.
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29. Eat Alaskan smoked salmon and Alaskan king crab
You can’t visit Alaska without trying some of the state’s famous salmon and king crab. While Alaska’s interior is not where you’ll find fish markets with freshly caught fish but in Fairbanks, you can get both at the “World Famous” Lady of the Lake restaurant (located in North Pole, Alaska). The restaurant is actually an old school bus that has been converted into a restaurant on wheels.
The salmon and king crab are served as whole, filleted, or smoked cuts. You can also get it as an appetizer or part of a sandwich if you’re not up for preparing your own meal at home.
It’s recommended that you ask your server how to prepare the Alaskan salmon before cooking; this way you’ll know whether or not there’s enough oil left over in order to season it properly once it comes out of your oven.
30. Go on a brewery crawl
Fairbanks, Alaska: a city whose nickname is “the Golden Heart of Alaska.” It’s a quaint and gorgeous town that feels like a throwback to the best parts of the midwest and west coast all at once. But how does one treat oneself in such an ideal spot?
The single most important thing you can do in Fairbanks visits some breweries. I mean, it’s not just any brewery – these places are world-renowned. There are so many different kinds of beer here, and they’re all delicious. Hoodoo Brewing Company is one of the most well-known breweries in the area.
If you’re looking for something a little different, check out the Midnight Sun Brewing Company and Midnite Mine Brewing Company. They’ve got some of the most unique beers you’ll ever try, and they’re all brewed right here in Fairbanks.
If you want more information on each brewery’s offerings and where they’re located, we’ve put together a full guide on the best breweries in Fairbanks to visit.
31. Go gold panning at Gold Daughters Claim 5 and Homestead Village Museum
Alaska is well-known for its gold rush history, and Fairbanks is the perfect place to learn more about it. The Gold Daughters Claim 5 and Homestead Village Museum are a must-visit for anyone interested in gold panning.
You can try your hand at panning for gold in their creek, stream, or pool, and the museum offers helpful guides to get you started. And for a truly unique experience, don’t miss the Gold Dredge 8. This massive mechanical device “walked” across the land collecting pay dirt during the gold rush.
Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction where you can ride in an open-air train car and learn about the legends of Fairbanks’ gold rush history.
See Related: Best Things to do in Anchorage, Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska Map
Let’s take a look at a map of Fairbanks and the greater metropolitan area to help you get oriented.
Best Time to Visit Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks is a great place to visit any time of year. However, the best time to visit Fairbanks is in the summer when the weather is warm and sunny.
This is also the busiest time of year in Fairbanks, so be sure to book your hotel room or rental property in advance. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Fairbanks in late summer or early fall.
Conclusion
Although many people view Alaska as a destination for thrill-seekers, it has a lot to offer those who prefer to stay indoors.
From museums and art galleries to river cruises and ice skating rinks, there’s something for everyone in Fairbanks. There’s no shortage of places where you may have fun while visiting this lovely state.
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FAQs
Is Fairbanks worth visiting?
Yes, Fairbanks is definitely worth visiting. There are plenty of things to do in town, from outdoor activities to museums and art galleries. Plus, the natural beauty of Alaska is simply stunning.
What is Fairbanks known for?
Fairbanks has a 65-degree north latitude and is famous for the Northern Lights, also called Aurora borealis, and the Midnight Sun which features 24 hours of straight sunshine. Fairbanks is also known for being the starting point for Denali National Park & Preserve and the Arctic Circle.
Is there a lot to do in Fairbanks, Alaska?
There are several cultural attractions in downtown Fairbanks, including the University of Alaska – Fairbanks, which houses a variety of museums and cultural activities. In addition, the city features several great state park locations that provide a range of year-round outdoor activities while unique cultural attractions may give families a variety of exciting things to do.
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