Top 10 Things to Do in Fairbanks, Alaska
Whether you want to play golf on the long, bright summer nights in Fairbanks or enjoy hiking with reindeer in the woods, there's plenty to do in Alaska's interior.
Fairbanks is located in the interior of Alaska and is often the northernmost destination on Alaska itineraries. Even though there are only about 30,000 people here, there's more to do than you might think. Whether you're interested in history, food and wine, outdoor recreation, or all of the above, Fairbanks has something for everyone. In this article I will outline the top 10 things to do in Fairbanks.
1. Northern Lights tour
A Northern Lights tour is a must for those who want to brave the cold to see the lights of their lives. Since Fairbanks is right next to the Aurora Oval, there's a good chance of catching an unforgettable view of the Southern Lights (commonly known as the Aurora Borealis).
Northern Lights peak season runs from August to March. For the best viewing opportunities, visitors should depart from downtown Fairbanks and head into the country. You will notice that city lights disappear less.
For many adventurers, tourism may be best because the companies have so much experience. These include overnight stays in hotels, scenic flights, and even trips to the Arctic Circle.
Do Check our : Best place to visit in the US in March.
2. Explore the Morris Thompson Cultural Center
Morris Thompson Cultural Center is located in downtown Fairbanks and offers a variety of activities to visitors. This is a staffing agency first and foremost, so if you have questions about what to do in Fairbanks (after reading the rest of this article!) or tours/activities, here are the best places to visit while visiting Fairbanks. . There is also a small museum that will teach you about life in the Alaska Interior, the Alaska Native culture of the region, and the modern history and economy of the Interior. If you haven't done any research on the history of Fairbanks or the city's role in Alaska history, this is a great guide.
Finally, there is another experience at the Morris Thompson Cultural Center. There are especially many Alaska Native artists with studios in the building, so you can learn about local arts and crafts and purchase handmade gifts. This is a great way to make sure your gifts are Alaska Native-made and support local artists.
3. Chena Hot Springs
For an easy day trip, head to the spectacular Chena Hotsprings, just 1.5 hours east of Fairbanks. Hot water is always hot and rich in nutrients. They can reach temperatures of 106 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt you on the coldest day in Alaska.
- The outdoor swimming pool is located among huge rocks with a beautiful background. But remember, these are just adults. If you are traveling with children, you can visit the indoor swimming pool, which is more family-friendly.
If you do not have enough time during the day, there are restaurants and camping areas at the hotel. When you visit in the summer months, we recommend staying in pleasant parks as there are plenty of outdoor activities.
4. Walk through the Fountainhead Antique Automobile Museum
OK, another museum, but I swear this one is really cool. When I visited Fairbanks in February 2020, I couldn't have been more excited to learn that my itinerary included a stop at the Fountainhead Antique Automobile Museum. If I don't consider myself a museum goer, I'm definitely not a car enthusiast... But what about a car museum? He's nothing like me.
Then I went inside and learned that the Fountainhead Antique Automobile Museum is much more than a car museum. Home to nearly 100 automobiles produced between 1898 and the 1930s, although each of these automobiles is as functional as a car, they are all operated and maintained by museum personnel.
Additionally, each car is accompanied by a vintage dress or a dress from the same period; Turn-of-the-century cars with Victorian dress, cars from the 1920s and 1930s with Art Deco touches, and everything in between. The pairing of cars and fashion - and let me be clear, I'm not a fashion person either - is so interesting that I have yet to meet the worst anti-museum, anti-car, car patron. - Hipsters who don't turn into an accident at the end of the visit.
Also don't miss the Alaskan cars and fashion pictures on the walls; these bring the whole experience to life!
5. Aurora Ice Museum Located in Chena Hot Springs,
About an hour outside of Fairbanks,is Alaska's coolest museum! By coolest we mean coolest. The Aurora Ice Museum lives up to its name, with temperatures reaching up to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Museum
was discovered and realized by 16-time world ice sculpture champions Steve and Heather Brice. It has become "the world's largest annual snow and ice environment." The
complex has beautiful ice features such as ice pipes, color-changing chandeliers and even an ice pool that serves drinks in frosted glasses. But don't let the heat stop you. To enhance the experience, complimentary park tours will be provided upon arrival.
6. Riverboat Expedition
Board an authentic Alaska stern steamer for a three-hour cruise down the Alaska River. Cruise along the Chena and Tanana Rivers outside of Fairbanks and you'll embark on an unforgettable journey through the wilderness surrounding Fairbanks. Tour
includes a one-hour stop at the Chena Indian Village. In the village, local guides will take you to visit Athabascan homes and understand their connection to the land and animals around them. Be sure to pay attention to local clothes. It is made from leather and fur from the region, then hand-stitched with intricate beadwork.
Then you will build a harbor for the fish camp on the river. Here you will see first-hand how local people prepare and consume salmon. Best of all, you can taste this dessert.
Do Check our : Best place to visit in the US in March.
7. Arctic one
A rare little town just a short drive (or short ride) from Fairbanks that features the phrase "It's Christmas Every Day Here." Also known as the North Pole, this region is not only home to Santa Claus, but its streets are also decorated with giant candies and exciting displays every year.
At Santa's house, you can meet the big man and shop for fun gifts for the holidays. If you're looking for something special, you can purchase a personalized letter from Santa!
After exploring Santa's house, when you go outside you will come across one of the largest Santa Claus statues in the world. Take out your camera and capture the perfect #SantaSelfie.
8. Run with the reindeers
Have you ever wondered where Santa's reindeer go in the summer? It turns out they may be unrecognizable at the Running Reindeer Farm in Fairbanks. This attraction was created by Jane and Doug, who have a deep love for the fascinating animals of the deer family.
Running Reindeer Farm is open all year and visitors can walk among the farm's reindeer; After talking about reindeer and their behavior/life cycle, you will be taken into the forest on reindeer equipment, off-leash. or including harnesses. A short walk among the trees will give you the opportunity to admire these animals and how they have adapted to this part of Alaska and spend a lot of time with them.
Please note that my photos were taken in winter, but replace the white snow with green leaves so you get the idea.
9. Dog sled
If you're looking for the perfect Alaskan sport, look no further than dog sledding. Also known as "dog sledding", this is a sport in which a group of dogs pull a sled across ice or snow. Sled dogs were used for transportation in the Arctic as early as 1000 AD.
Many companies offer you many ways to enjoy dog sledding. Trips include one-way excursions, field trips, and multi-day adventures. If you go to Alaska in the summer, you don't have to worry about missing it. Tours are available all year round!
10. Georgeson botanical garden
Do you want to walk among the flowers? You'll find it at the University of Alaska College of Natural Resources. At the Georgeson Arboretum, visitors will find many unique and beautiful plants. It is not only interesting, but also important. The
Garden offers many ways to learn how plants survive and thrive in Alaska's wild climate. If you want a challenge, see how long it takes you to get through Alaska's largest hedge maze (you can see it in the garden).
While enjoying the sanctuary, please remember that this is an active research area. Plant experiments and research experiments are regularly carried out at the school.
