What to do in Fairbanks, AK

Activities, attractions and tours

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Things to Do in Fairbanks

If you’re contemplating a trip to Fairbanks sometime in the near future, you may be wondering what the major must-see attractions are available in this former gold rush community. The types of things to do in Fairbanks depend on the time of year of your visit. Summer guests of the Last Frontier can choose to take a flightseeing trip over the Article Circle, take a ride on a local steamship, rent a car and visit Denali National Park, or enjoy a meal of freshly prepared Alaska seafood in one of the many good dining spots in Fairbanks. You can probably even find an informal softball game going on at the city park at 1 a.m. Don't worry about being kept awake by the constant daylight, though; hotels and other accommodations routinely provide blackout curtains so guests can get a good's night sleep.

Although the majority of tourist trade in Fairbanks takes place during the summer months, winter is a fascinating time to visit. Among the favorite Fairbanks excursions of winter guests are dogsledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and watching the Northern Lights. Fairbanks tours to the nearby hills outside of town are very popular in the winter among tourists who come to Alaska specifically to see the Northern Lights, and those who have been fortunate enough to see them say winter is the best time to visit the Fairbanks area. Thermal hot springs and creeks exist east of Fairbanks, and many visitors soak in the hot mineral waters while the temperatures are twenty below zero. Another one of popular winter attractions in Fairbanks is the annual ice carving competition featuring work by the world's top ice carvers.

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Things to do

1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska

1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska

£241
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska
Fairbanks: Gold Dredge 8 Historic Train Tour

Fairbanks: Gold Dredge 8 Historic Train Tour

£66
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Fairbanks: Gold Dredge 8 Historic Train Tour
Fairbanks Aurora Photography Experience

Fairbanks Aurora Photography Experience

£48
per adult
Fairbanks Aurora Photography Experience
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Top places to visit

1. Chena Hot Springs

Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort and relax in the natural mineral water pools. This resort features a range of bathing options, including a man-made lake, an indoor family swimming pool and numerous hot tubs. The Chena Hot Springs also houses a spectacular ice museum with its own ice bar.
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An ice bar with illuminated sculptures and a chandelier.

2. Pioneer Park

Fairbanks’ Pioneer Park is an extensive outdoor complex alongside the Chena River and the birthplace of the city itself. Formerly known as Alaskaland, the 44-acre (109-hectare) park brings the state’s pioneering heritage to life through historical museums and exciting hands-on exhibits. Climb on board a 1930s riverboat, explore a hangar full of restored aircraft and learn about the gold rush that shaped the region.
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3. Creamer's Field

Visit Creamer’s Field State Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, a bird sanctuary with viewing areas, wetlands and boreal forests. See a range of migratory birds, including northern pintail ducks, Canada geese and golden plovers. Take a guided walk through the sanctuary or participate in an educational event.
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4. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is a spacious and contemporary showcase of some of the state’s most significant antique vehicles. Expertly selected for rarity, historical importance and industrial innovation, the automobiles in the museum’s collection have been beautifully restored and presented with historically accurate grandeur. Stroll around the museum’s showroom to see rare models and cherished classics, as well as a selection of vehicles you won’t see on display anywhere else.
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5. Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

When visiting Fairbanks, make your first stop the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. This multipurpose venue exists to help visitors with any information they may need about the region of Interior Alaska. Come to this friendly and fascinating visitors center to pick up maps, find out about walking tours, explore the exhibits or enjoy a cultural event.
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Recommended things to do in Fairbanks

Number of things to do
89
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Fairbanks: Aurora Ice Museum Ticket and Guided Tour: £15
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Fairbanks

Stay near popular Fairbanks attractions

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Chena Hot Springs

8.8/10 (666 reviews)
Soak in mineral-rich waters at Alaska's premier geothermal resort, where wilderness meets wellness. After dark, marvel at the northern lights or explore the year-round Aurora Ice Museum's crystalline sculptures.
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Where to stay in Fairbanks

Find the best Fairbanks areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Fairbanks
Learn more about Fairbanks
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College

If you're spending some time in College, Creamer's Field and Chena River are top sights worth seeing.

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Photo by Geraldine Soh
Open Photo by Geraldine Soh

Downtown Fairbanks

If you're spending some time in Downtown Fairbanks, Fairbanks Ice Museum and Chena River are top sights worth seeing.

Aurora

Aurora might not have many top sights, but Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum and Creamer's Field are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

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Photo by Kathryn Reichert
Open Photo by Kathryn Reichert

Hamilton Acres

While Hamilton Acres isn't home to many top sights, Fort Wainwright and Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

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Photo by A Jaunt With Joy
Open Photo by A Jaunt With Joy

Westgate

Though Westgate may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pioneer Park and Carlson Center Event Arena.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Fairbanks

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North Pole

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Livengood

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Badger

Frequently asked questions

Is Fairbanks worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are many interesting things to do in Fairbanks. Don't forget to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Fairbanks?
When you've checked off top attractions like Fairbanks Ice Museum and Creamer's Field, spend the rest of your day enjoying Fairbanks's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks Ice Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Fairbanks and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Fairbanks?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city sights, like Fairbanks Ice Museum, Creamer's Field and Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. The average stay in Fairbanks is three days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, North Pole isn't far away.
Is Fairbanks a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Fairbanks. Several key sights, like Fairbanks Ice Museum and Creamer's Field, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Fairbanks's neighbourhoods, College is 5 kms (3 miles) away from downtown, while Lemeta is 3 kms (2 miles) away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Fairbanks with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all of your group, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Fairbanks with kids.

What to do in Fairbanks for adults?
Hoodoo Brewing Company and Large Animal Research Station are just a few of the things to do in Fairbanks. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Fairbanks?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Fairbanks is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.

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