Want to discover the Best Things To Do in Fairbanks, Alaska, and see the Northern Lights? You’re in the right place! Many people dream of visiting Fairbanks, and we can help you make it happen.
You’re the main part of this adventure, and we’re here to guide you.
Here’s the plan:
- See the Northern Lights
- Relax at Chena Hot Springs
- Visit Pioneer Park and museums
- Explore Denali National Park
Keep reading to start your amazing trip. Fairbanks is waiting for you!
- 1. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Northern Lights
- 2. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Chena Hot Springs
- 3. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Dog Sledding
- 4. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Pioneer Park
- 5. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: University of Alaska Museum of the North
- 6. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Denali National Park
- Best Things To Do in Fairbanks, Alaska: A Recap
- FAQ
1. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Northern Lights
About the Place: Fairbanks is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, especially from mid-August to mid-April. The town is under the aurora oval, which makes it a great spot for viewing. You can see the lights from anywhere in town, but it’s better to go away from the city lights.
Fairbanks is also a good starting point for trips to the Arctic Circle. The lights can be seen from August 21 to April 21, when it gets dark enough.
Reasons to Visit: Winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights. It’s cold and dark, which makes it perfect for a winter vacation. There’s usually snow, so you can enjoy activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing during the day. At night, you can look for the lights.
Some tours can take you to the best spots for seeing the lights. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, staying for several nights increases your chances, especially if aurora activity is high or skies clear up.
2. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Chena Hot Springs
About the Place: Chena Hot Springs is a small resort 56.5 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska. It’s near the Chena River State Recreation Area. The resort is famous for its natural hot springs, which are great for relaxation.
It also uses a special geothermal power plant that helps make clean energy. The resort is working on other energy projects, like making hydrogen and using vegetable oil for fuel.
Reasons to Visit: You can soak in the outdoor rock pools and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for both nature and relaxation. Some of the best things to do in Fairbanks include canoeing, kayaking, and hiking, allowing you to enjoy the Alaska wilderness.
Chena Hot Springs Resort is also home to the Aurora Ice Museum. This museum is made from over 1,000 tons of snow and ice. Built by an ice art carving champion, it includes ice chandeliers, horses, furniture, and even an ice bar where you can relax after a day of adventure.
See Also Best Things to Do in San Diego
3. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Dog Sledding
About the Place: Dog sledding has been a part of Alaska’s history for a long time. Sled dogs were once used for transportation, especially during the 1925 serum run to Nome. Mushers and their sled dogs helped deliver medicine when there was no other way to do it.
Reasons to Visit: Fun activities in Fairbanks, Alaska, include being pulled by a team of dogs on a wheeled cart down a forest trail in the summer. You can also hike with the dogs to see their summer training and learn how mushers care for their animals.
In winter, the snow-covered world is perfect for a dog sled tour through the beautiful surroundings. For a special experience, take a nighttime sled ride and you might get to see the northern lights lighting up the sky.
4. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Pioneer Park
About the Place: Pioneer Park is one of the top places to visit in Fairbanks, Alaska. It opened in 1967 to celebrate the centennial of the Alaska Purchase.
Initially called the Alaska 67 Centennial Exposition, the park was later renamed Alaskaland and then to its current name in 2001 to avoid confusion with a theme park. It is a cultural spot where you can learn about the history of Alaska.
Reasons to Visit: At Pioneer Park, visitors can explore attractions like the Pioneer Museum, where historical artifacts from Alaska’s past are displayed.
The park also features Gold Rush Town, a replica of an early 1900s Alaskan town with historic buildings and actors dressed in period costumes. Aviation fans can check out the Pioneer Air Museum, which showcases vintage aircraft.
The park offers beautiful grounds for a relaxing walk and hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. Entrance is free, although some museums may charge a fee.
See Also Best Things to Do in Maui
5. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: University of Alaska Museum of the North
About the Place: The University of Alaska Museum of the North, formerly known as the University of Alaska Museum, has been a part of Fairbanks’ history for many years. It is a must-see attraction that offers a deep look into Alaska’s people, culture, and nature.
Reasons to Visit: The museum features a variety of exhibits about Alaska’s history, geology, and special regions. One of its most popular displays is Blue Babe, a 36,000-year-old bison found in the permafrost by local miners.
Another highlight is The Place Where You Go To Listen, a unique exhibit that uses sound and light to show the real-time positions of the sun and moon. You can also watch a multimedia presentation about the northern lights in the museum’s theater.
Don’t forget to check out the souvenir shop for local treats and gifts.
6. Must-See in Fairbanks, Alaska: Denali National Park
About the Place: Denali National Park, located about 120 miles south of Fairbanks, is a massive national park and preserve in Alaska. It is home to Denali, the highest mountain in North America.
Covering over 6 million acres, it is larger than the state of New Hampshire and is often listed among the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Reasons to Visit: Denali National Park is a must-see for anyone who loves nature. You can enjoy incredible views of Mount Denali and spot wildlife like grizzly bears, wolves, and foxes.
The park offers many ways to explore, including bus tours and hiking trails. Whether you’re sightseeing or exploring the wild, Denali provides an unforgettable experience.
Best Things To Do in Fairbanks, Alaska: A Recap
Fairbanks is full of adventure, history, and natural beauty. With so many things to see and do, it is a great place for visitors who want to experience true Alaska.
The best things to do in Fairbanks include watching the northern lights, visiting museums, and enjoying outdoor fun during every season.
Whether you’re learning about local culture, meeting sled dogs, or relaxing in a hot spring, Fairbanks offers something for everyone. It’s a wonderful spot for families, couples, and solo travelers to make lasting memories.