Fairbanks AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fairbanks, Alaska.
1. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
VINTAGE CARS AND FASHION
The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum features a world-class array of pristine antique cars and vintage fashion. Visitors can explore meticulously restored vehicles and period clothing that highlight different historical eras. The museum offers a unique blend of automotive history and fashion that appeals to car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
2. University of Alaska Museum of the North
ART AND NATURAL HISTORY
The University of Alaska Museum of the North is a modern museum on the university campus displaying Alaska's history, culture, and geology. Highlights of the museum include indigenous peoples' exhibits, native artwork, and a diverse range of wildlife displays. Visitors can immerse themselves in Alaska's rich natural and cultural heritage through the museum's comprehensive collections.
3. Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center
ALASKA NATIVE HERITAGE
The Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center serves as a cultural hub with engaging exhibits on Indigenous culture, early settlers, and Alaskan life. The center features interactive displays, a model cabin, and a gift shop with unique local items. Visitors can gain valuable insights into the diverse cultures that shaped Alaska's identity.
4. Aurora Ice Museum
FROZEN ART GALLERY
The Aurora Ice Museum showcases spectacular ice sculptures and frozen art in a year-round winter wonderland. Visitors can marvel at intricate ice carvings while enjoying the museum's consistently cold temperatures. The museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the artistry of ice sculpting regardless of the season.
5. Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
BIRD WATCHING PARADISE
Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge provides a protected habitat for various bird species that migrate through Alaska. The refuge offers well-maintained trails and observation areas for visitors to enjoy wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Nature enthusiasts can spot numerous waterfowl species, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons.
6. James Dalton Highway
LEGENDARY ARCTIC ROUTE
The James Dalton Highway is a 414-mile road that stretches from Fairbanks to the Arctic Ocean, crossing some of Alaska's most remote wilderness. This legendary route provides access to stunning Arctic landscapes and the opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle. Adventurous travelers can experience the rugged beauty of northern Alaska while following the same path used by truckers featured in the television show 'Ice Road Truckers.'
7. Pioneer Park
HISTORICAL THEME PARK
Pioneer Park is a 44-acre historical theme park showcasing Fairbanks' gold rush era and pioneer history. The park features original and reconstructed buildings, museums, and entertainment venues that bring Alaska's past to life. Visitors can enjoy the Pioneer Museum, SS Nenana sternwheeler, and various dining options while exploring this family-friendly attraction.
8. Large Animal Research Station
ARCTIC WILDLIFE RESEARCH
The Large Animal Research Station offers visitors a chance to observe and learn about muskoxen, caribou, and reindeer in a research setting. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into these Arctic animals and the scientific work being conducted at the station. Visitors can photograph these magnificent creatures while learning about their adaptations to the harsh northern environment.
9. Chena Hot Springs
NATURAL THERMAL RESORT
Chena Hot Springs offers visitors a relaxing soak in natural mineral hot springs surrounded by beautiful Alaskan wilderness. The resort features indoor and outdoor thermal pools, an ice museum, and opportunities for northern lights viewing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities year-round, including hiking, dog sledding, and snowmobiling depending on the season.
10. Running Reindeer Ranch
REINDEER INTERACTION EXPERIENCE
Running Reindeer Ranch offers a unique opportunity to walk among free-ranging reindeer in the boreal forest of Goldstream Valley. Visitors learn about reindeer behavior, biology, and their cultural significance in Alaska. The interactive experience allows guests to pet, photograph, and forge connections with these gentle animals in their natural environment.
11. Midnight Sun Festival
SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION
The Midnight Sun Festival is Fairbanks' largest single-day event celebrating the summer solstice and the phenomenon of 24 hours of daylight. The festival features live music, local food vendors, arts and crafts, and various activities spread throughout downtown Fairbanks. Visitors can experience the unique energy of celebrating under the midnight sun, a quintessential Alaskan experience.
12. World Ice Art Championships
INTERNATIONAL ICE SCULPTING
The World Ice Art Championships attract talented ice sculptors from around the globe to create stunning frozen masterpieces in Fairbanks. Artists transform massive blocks of crystal-clear ice into intricate sculptures that are illuminated with colorful lights after dark. Visitors can marvel at these impressive ice creations while enjoying various winter activities at this internationally recognized event.
13. Midnight Sun Golf Course
24-HOUR GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Midnight Sun Golf Course offers the unique opportunity to play golf under the midnight sun during the summer months in Fairbanks. Golfers can tee off at any hour of the day or night, taking advantage of Alaska's extended daylight hours. The course provides a memorable experience combining the sport of golf with the natural phenomenon of the midnight sun.
14. World Eskimo-Indian Olympics
INDIGENOUS ATHLETIC TRADITIONS
The World Eskimo-Indian Olympics showcases traditional Native games that test strength, endurance, balance, and agility. Athletes compete in events such as the knuckle hop, ear pull, and high kick, which were developed to hone survival skills needed in the Arctic. Visitors can experience authentic Alaska Native culture through not only the athletic competitions but also dance performances and arts and crafts displays.
15. Golden Days
GOLD RUSH CELEBRATION
Golden Days is an annual summer festival celebrating Fairbanks' gold rush heritage with parades, contests, and community events. Highlights include the Golden Days Parade, rubber duckie race, and the Felix Pedro look-alike contest named after the prospector who discovered gold near Fairbanks. Visitors and locals alike enjoy this festive celebration of the city's golden history that shaped the development of interior Alaska.