Fairbanks, Alaska, is a hidden gem in the heart of the Last Frontier. It’s a charming city that offers a perfect combination of wilderness adventures and modern amenities that cater to thrilling experiences for tourists. With an abundance of outdoor activities and cultural landmarks, Fairbanks provides travelers with unforgettable memories. From dog sledding and northern lights viewing to learning about the Alaskan culture and wildlife, this city has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore the best attractions and things to do that make Fairbanks a must-visit destination in Alaska.
The 6 Best Guided Tours in Fairbanks
- Fairbanks Heritage Tour
- 1 Hour Winter Dog Mushing Sledding in Alaska
- Arctic Circle Adventure Full Day Tour
- 6 Hours Moonlight Dog Sled Tour Dinner and Northern Lights
- The Best of Fairbanks Full Day City Tour
- Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Night Tour
The 6 Best Guided Tours in Fairbanks
1. Fairbanks Heritage Tour
Discover the rich history and culture of Alaska on the Fairbanks Heritage Tour. Take a close look at the Alyeska Pipeline, and learn about the state’s intriguing history and contemporary art at the Museum of the North. Admire the captivating art exhibits at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center. If the season permits, explore Pioneer Park, a unique attraction that highlights the history of Fairbanks and its surrounding areas. Enjoy convenient pickup and drop-off service, and savor delicious food and beverages during the tour. Don’t forget, admission to the museums and gratuities are also included. The Fairbanks Heritage Tour is a fantastic way to learn about the rich cultural heritage and unique history of Alaska.
2. 1 Hour Winter Dog Mushing Sledding in Alaska
Your Alaskan adventure awaits! This 1-hour dog mushing tour takes you through the scenic rural areas around Fairbanks in a sled pulled by happy huskies. Your journey begins with hotel pickup and drop-off right from your Fairbanks hotel.
Experience the thrill and excitement of mushing through the Alaskan wilderness as you enjoy the stunning views around you. This fascinating sport has a long history in Alaska, and you’ll learn more about its cultural significance as you ride. Don’t forget to pose for pictures amidst the beautiful surroundings.
Cocoa, coffee, and tea are included, and gratuities are also included. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 5 years of age or individuals over 250 lbs (113 kg). Book now to experience the best of winter in Alaska!
3. Arctic Circle Adventure Full Day Tour
Throughout history adventurers have been drawn to the extreme reaches of our planet. On this extraordinary day trip, you will cross the Arctic Circle and enjoy stunning views of Alaska like never before. The day begins at 8:00 AM from your hotel. You’ll be transported to the Trans-Alaska-Pipeline, where you can glance at one of the world’s largest pipelines stretched over 800 miles (1287 km). It is a crude oil pipeline privately owned by the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company, and here you will learn the engineering and building process of this epic land-crawling beast.
After a short visit to the pipeline, you’ll stop for breakfast at a local restaurant before heading to the incredible Beaver Creek. This is the perfect pit stop to take a simple hike into the stunning beauty of Finger Mountain’s high plateau. From there, you will have the opportunity to step up to the banks of the mighty Yukon River before finally crossing the iconic Arctic Circle! Here, you’ll have the chance to impress your friends with your “Cross the Circle Certificate” before heading back to your hotel. A truly unforgettable day!
4. 6 Hours Moonlight Dog Sled Tour Dinner and Northern Lights
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Aurora Borealis with our 6-hour Moonlight Dog Sled Tour, Dinner and Northern Lights package. Harnessed to your dog team, let your sled soar across the glittering snow under the moonlit sky. With most of the ride taking place in an open area, you’re guaranteed a thrilling view of the sky should the Aurora begin early. Witness the spectacular lights that make the winter sky come alive with an other-worldly glow.
After your dog sled ride, enjoy a home-cooked Alaskan meal of salmon, prepared just for you. Then head over to the viewing area, far from the obstructing glare of city lights, to experience a truly amazing view of the Northern Lights. Have a once in a lifetime photo opportunity of the Aurora Borealis, and take home memories that will last you a lifetime. This is an experience not to be missed if you’re looking for the best attractions and things to do in Fairbanks.
5. The Best of Fairbanks Full Day City Tour
Your Fairbanks City Highlight Tour takes you on an adventure through the history and culture of Fairbanks. Starting from your hotel, we’ll head to the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor’s Center where you can delve into the fascinating background of the area.
From there, we’ll head to the Trans Alaska Pipeline viewpoint, where you’ll learn about the incredible engineering feat that is the pipeline and the oil industry of Alaska. Our next stop is the University of Alaska Museum of the North. With its dramatic architecture and new exhibit galleries, you’ll get a glimpse into the unique cultures, places, and wildlife of Alaska.
Finally, we’ll visit the charming town of North Pole to meet Santa himself. The Best of Fairbanks Full Day City Tour is the perfect way to experience the highlights of this incredible city.
6. Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Night Tour
The Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Night Tour is a spectacular experience you won’t want to miss. Expert guides will collect you from your Fairbanks hotel between 4~5pm and take you to the Chena Resort, approximately 60 miles away. The Ice Museum is a highlight of the evening, where you’ll see hand-crafted ice chandeliers and enjoy a drink at the ice bar.
At 8pm, it’s time to relax in famous Chena Hot Springs, discovered by natives and early miners. You’ll be pleased to know that the resort makes use of the first low-temperature geothermal power plant in the world, so you can trust that your soak is both enjoyable and sustainable.
But the real star of the show is the world-famous Northern Lights. You’ll be able to gaze in awe at this natural wonder from the comfort of your transportation throughout the evening. Book this unforgettable tour and experience the very best of Fairbanks’ attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fairbanks, Alaska – Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Fairbanks, Alaska is a beautiful city located in the heart of the state’s interior. It is known for its incredible natural beauty, friendly locals, and exciting outdoor activities. Each year, thousands of tourists visit Fairbanks to experience everything this unique city has to offer. In this ultimate travel guide to Fairbanks, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the city.1. When is the Best Time to Visit Fairbanks?
The best time to visit Fairbanks is between June and August. During this time, the weather is mild, and the days are long, with up to 24 hours of daylight in the summer months. This provides ample time for visitors to explore the beautiful city and its surroundings. However, if you’re interested in seeing the Northern Lights, the best time to visit is between late August and late April when the nights are the longest.2. What are the Top Things to do in Fairbanks?
Visitors to Fairbanks have a wide variety of activities to choose from. Some of the top things to do in Fairbanks include:- Viewing the Northern Lights
- Taking a dog sled ride
- Visiting the Museum of the North
- Exploring the Chena River State Recreation Area
- Visiting the Santa Claus House in nearby North Pole, Alaska
3. What are the Best Places to Stay in Fairbanks?
There are a wide variety of accommodation options in Fairbanks, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Some of the best places to stay in Fairbanks include:- Fountainhead Hotels
- Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott
- Candlewood Suites
4. How Do I Get to Fairbanks?
The easiest way to get to Fairbanks is by air. The Fairbanks International Airport receives daily flights from major cities across the United States. Alternatively, visitors can also drive to Fairbanks via the Alaska Highway or take the Alaska Railroad, which offers scenic views of the Alaska wilderness.5. What is the Weather Like in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks experiences a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, warm summers. The average winter temperature is around 2°F (-16°C), while the summer months see average temperatures of around 70°F (21°C). Visitors to Fairbanks should pack warm clothing and outdoor gear no matter what time of year they plan to visit.6. Can I See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?
Yes, Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The lights are visible from late August to late April, with peak viewing times in December and January. Visitors can view the Northern Lights by taking a guided tour or venturing out on their own.7. What Should I Pack for My Trip to Fairbanks?
Visitors to Fairbanks should pack warm clothing and outdoor gear no matter what time of year they plan to visit. This includes heavy winter jackets, boots, gloves, and hats for winter visitors, as well as comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing for summer visitors. Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture all the incredible sights and experiences!8. Are There Any Cultural Attractions in Fairbanks?
Yes, Fairbanks is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Museum of the North, which explores the history and culture of Alaska, and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, which showcases the heritage of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. Visitors can also attend the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics, an annual event that celebrates Native Alaskan traditions.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Fairbanks
Fairbanks, Alaska, has a lot to offer as a tourist destination. From the Northern Lights to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some suggestions on how to spend your time as a tourist in Fairbanks.1. Witness the Northern Lights
One of the main reasons people visit Fairbanks is to witness the Northern Lights. The best time to view the lights is during the winter months from September to April when the nights are longer. There are various Northern Lights viewing tours available that provide transportation to prime viewing locations outside the city.2. Explore Denali National Park
A visit to Denali National Park is a must-do activity when in Fairbanks. The national park is home to Mount Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. The park offers hiking, biking, and camping opportunities. You can also take a guided bus tour through the park and view some of the wildlife such as bears and moose.3. Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North
The University of Alaska Museum of the North is a great place to learn about the culture and history of Alaska. The museum contains exhibits of Alaskan art, animals, and Native American artifacts. The highlight of the museum is the Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery, which showcases Alaskan artwork from various artists.4. Go Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is a popular winter activity in Fairbanks. You can experience the thrill of dog sledding by taking a guided tour through a scenic trail with a team of huskies. Some tours also offer the opportunity to learn how to mush your own team of dogs.5. Relax and Rejuvenate at the Chena Hot Springs Resort
The Chena Hot Springs Resort is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and rejuvenate. The resort features natural hot springs that are rich in minerals and offer a calming and relaxing experience. The resort also offers a variety of activities such as ice skating, snowmobiling, and Aurora viewing.6. Visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is the perfect destination for automobile enthusiasts. The museum features over 80 historic automobiles, including a steam car and a 1906 Pope Toledo Runabout. The museum also has interactive exhibits and a gift shop.7. Attend an Alaskan Native Cultural Event
Alaskan Native Cultural events are a great way to learn more about the indigenous people of Alaska. Many events feature traditional dancing, singing, and storytelling. The events also offer a chance to purchase authentic Native American art and crafts.8. Take a Riverboat Discovery Cruise
The Riverboat Discovery Cruise is a popular attraction for tourists visiting Fairbanks. The riverboat travels up the Chena River and provides a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. You can also visit the Chena Indian Village and see a replica of an Athabascan Indian fish camp.9. Explore Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park is a 44-acre historical theme park in Fairbanks. The park features replicas of old miners’ cabins, a chapel, and even a paddlewheel boat. The park also has shops and restaurants offering traditional Alaskan cuisine.Book Your Tour Now
Fairbanks, Alaska, has a lot to offer as a tourist destination. From witnessing the Northern Lights to exploring Denali National Park and relaxing at the Chena Hot Springs Resort, there is plenty to see and do. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Fairbanks has something for everyone. Don’t forget to book your accommodations and activities in advance to ensure the best possible experience.
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