Are you seeking a breathtaking journey into the wild and an exciting adventure? Alaska’s Fairbanks is a secret gem in the middle of nowhere. Fairbanks is more than just a place to visit; it’s an adventure. Take in the beautiful Northern Lights show, hike through the vast desert, and learn about the area’s rich cultural history.
Imagine yourself dog-sledding under the magical light of the Northern Lights, fishing in clear rivers, or being amazed by the midnight sun. These and many other amazing things can be done in Fairbanks. Fairbanks has something for everyone, whether you like nature history or want to go on a trip with your family.
Why wait, then? Plan your trip to Fairbanks, Alaska, right now, and get ready to be amazed by all it offers. In our complete guide to Fairbanks, you can find the best things to do, secret gems, and local favorites. This is where your once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan trip begins!
1. Witness the Majestic Northern Lights
Experiencing the Aurora Borealis is a must in Fairbanks. The city’s location is ideal for this celestial display, particularly between August and April. For the best experience, visit spots like Cleary Summit or Chena Hot Springs away from city lights.
2. Explore the Chena Hot Springs
Located just 60 miles from Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs is not only famous for its therapeutic waters but also for the incredible Ice Museum. Enjoy the stunning winter landscapes while soaking in the natural hot springs.
Chena Hot Springs Resort is also known for its clean and beautiful surroundings. People from all over come to enjoy the healing hot waters. Chena Hot Springs Resort is the best place to go if you want a unique experience of relaxation and action. This lodge offers a memorable experience, whether you want to relax in the mineral-rich waters or learn more about the beautiful Ice Museum.
The Ice Museum is a wonder in and of itself, with elaborate ice sculptures and an ice bar that are a cool but mesmerizing contrast to the hot springs. Every trip is full of chances to connect with nature and have experiences that will last a lifetime, like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and watching the aurora.
Chena Hot Springs is more than just a vacation spot; it’s a place to relax and recharge in the middle of Alaska’s beautiful wildness.
3. Visit the Museum of the North
The University of Alaska’s Museum of the North offers a deep dive into Alaskan history, culture, and art. Its unique architecture and exhibits, including a comprehensive collection of native artifacts and natural history displays, make it a must-visit.
You will learn about Alaska’s Native cultures, amazing natural sights, different kinds of wildlife, and even Arctic dinosaurs. You will also see 2,000 years of Alaska’s art and learn about museum scientists’ discoveries.
4. Journey on the Riverboat Discovery
Embark on a journey through Alaska’s waterways with the Riverboat Discovery tour. This excursion provides a glimpse into the state’s history, indigenous cultures, and the stunning wilderness of the Tanana River. On the three-hour tour, you’ll dive deep into Alaska’s heart and meet a family who has lived and worked on Alaska’s rivers for five generations.
5. Experience the Midnight Sun
Fairbanks is renowned for its midnight sun during the summer months. Take advantage of the prolonged daylight for activities like golfing at midnight or enjoying the Midnight Sun Festival. The 12-hour festival happens in late June, right around the summer solstice, and it’s one of the biggest parties in the state.
There’s live music, stalls with crafts and art for sale, and food trucks that make wandering around the festival both enjoyable and tasty. Plus, there are many live shows and entertainment to celebrate the sun! You can use this midnight sun tracker if you dont want to miss this amazing view.
6. Tour the Santa Claus House at North Pole
A short drive from Fairbanks, the charming town of North Pole, Alaska, hosts the Santa Claus House. This Christmas-themed store offers a unique holiday experience year-round, with a chance to meet Santa himself. You can find all sorts of gifts and souvenirs for everyone and every occasion.
There’s a huge variety of Christmas decorations, unique North Pole clothes, collectibles, Alaskan-made items, and fun toys. Don’t forget to ask about getting a special letter from Santa!
Outside, you can sit in Santa’s sleigh in front of the World’s largest Santa statue, which is almost 50 feet tall! The front of the building has beautiful murals and window displays, and there are more surprises around the property.
Before you leave, you can send your friends and family cards and letters with a real North Pole postmark from Santa Claus House.
7. Hike in the Denali National Park
A couple hours’ drive from Fairbanks, Denali National Park is home to North America’s highest peak. Denali is a huge six-million-acre wilderness with just one road going through it. As you travel, forests at lower elevations change into alpine tundra and snowy peaks, including Denali, the tallest mountain in North America at 20,310 feet. You’ll see wild animals living freely like they always have. It’s a place full of peace, quiet, and untouched nature.
8. Take a Scenic Drive on the Steese Highway
Don’t miss the amazing skies over Interior Alaska; the Steese Highway is a perfect way to see them. In summer, the sun stays low and bright for a long time, with small clouds creating beautiful light shows. You can drive to Eagle Summit to watch the sun move along the horizon. In winter, the Steese Highway offers a great view of the Northern Lights.
Remember, not every rental car can go on the Steese Highway. Check with your rental company first. Or, choose Alaska Overlander, Alaska 4×4 Rentals, or Alaska Auto Rental – they let you drive their cars on gravel roads.
9. Explore the Arctic Circle
Embark on an adventure to the Arctic Circle, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Alaska’s Arctic region’s remote and unspoiled wilderness. Several tour companies offer guided trips from Fairbanks.
The top spots to see in the Arctic Circle include Arctic Greenland, Spitsbergen, remote northern Russia, the Canadian High Arctic, and the North Pole. These places are great for all kinds of trips. You can see the Midnight Sun, sail through grand fjords, be amazed by glaciers, see animals in the wild, meet Indigenous people, or walk in icy areas where few people ever go.
10. Attend the World Ice Art Championships
If visiting in late winter, don’t miss the World Ice Art Championships. This event showcases stunning ice sculptures created by artists from around the globe and offers various activities for all ages.
This event is a huge ice sculpture contest, with beautiful ice carvings shining with bright lights. You can stroll around the sculptures and have fun in the ice playground, where you can play and interact with the ice.
11. Visit the Large Animal Research Station
The Large Animal Research Station in Fairbanks provides a unique chance to learn about and observe Alaska’s large mammals, like muskoxen and caribou, in a natural setting. For tourists like you, it’s exciting to see how these animals are helping Alaska’s farming future. It’s a great mix of learning and fun, showing you a special side of animal research and how it helps our world. Come and see these amazing animals! They’re more than just wildlife; they’re important to science and farming in Alaska.
Final Thoughts
Fairbanks is a treasure trove of experiences, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Each of these top 11 activities unveils a different facet of Alaska’s enchanting charm, promising unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of this remarkable region. Whether seeking serene natural wonders or exhilarating cultural encounters, Fairbanks is the gateway to the best Alaska offers.
After you’ve fully explored those destinations and experienced their best offerings, consider venturing south to the charming town of Abbeville. You may visit our 10 best things to do in Abbeville guide for a truly enriching experience that blends history, culture, and the unique charm of the South.
