Wainwright AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wainwright, Alaska.
1. The Aurora Chasers
NORTHERN LIGHTS ADVENTURE
The Aurora Chasers offer specialized night tours and photography experiences to capture the magnificent Northern Lights near Fort Wainwright. Their highly-rated excursions provide expert guidance on photographing this natural phenomenon. Visitors can experience one of Alaska's most sought-after attractions with knowledgeable local guides.
2. Birch Hill Recreation Area
WINTER SPORTS PARADISE
Birch Hill Recreation Area provides excellent winter recreation facilities at the military installation. The area features both ski and snowboard terrain suitable for various skill levels. During winter months, it serves as a popular destination for both military personnel and civilians seeking outdoor activities.
3. Trax Outdoor Center
ADVENTURE GEAR RENTALS
Trax Outdoor Center offers equipment rentals and sports clinics for outdoor enthusiasts in the Fort Wainwright area. Visitors can access quality gear for exploring Alaska's natural landscapes without having to purchase expensive equipment. The center provides valuable resources for both beginners and experienced adventurers looking to make the most of their Alaskan experience.
4. Bishops Jewelry Gallery
ALASKAN ARTISAN TREASURES
Bishops Jewelry Gallery showcases unique specialty items and gifts, including locally-crafted jewelry pieces. The highly-rated shop offers authentic Alaskan souvenirs and keepsakes for visitors. Their collection frequently features designs inspired by Alaska's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
5. Bill's Tours and Charters
GUIDED ALASKAN EXPERIENCES
Bill's Tours and Charters provides sightseeing and city tours around the Fort Wainwright and Fairbanks area. Their experienced guides offer insights into local history, culture, and natural landmarks. Visitors appreciate their customized tour experiences that showcase the best of interior Alaska.
6. The Fairbanks Alaska Public Lands Information Center
GATEWAY TO WILDERNESS
The Fairbanks Alaska Public Lands Information Center serves as an essential resource for visitors planning to explore Alaska's vast public lands. The center provides maps, permits, educational displays, and expert advice on outdoor activities throughout the region. Visitors can gain valuable insights about wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and seasonal conditions before venturing into Alaska's wilderness.
7. Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center
CULTURAL HERITAGE HUB
The Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center houses natural history exhibits and serves as a primary visitor information hub for the region. Its extensive displays showcase Alaska Native culture, local history, and the unique natural environment of interior Alaska. The center offers free admission and serves as an excellent first stop for visitors to orient themselves to the area's attractions and activities.
8. Antler Arch
ICONIC PHOTO SPOT
The Antler Arch stands as one of Fairbanks' distinctive landmarks and popular photo opportunities for visitors. This unique structure is crafted from naturally shed moose and caribou antlers, showcasing the region's abundant wildlife heritage. Visitors often stop to capture memories beneath this symbolic gateway to Alaska's wilderness.
9. Northern Whimsy Studios
LOCAL ART GALLERY
Northern Whimsy Studios features art galleries and specialty shops showcasing work from local Alaskan artists. The studio offers unique handcrafted items that reflect the spirit and landscape of Alaska. Visitors can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and art pieces that capture the essence of the Last Frontier.
10. Lavelle's Taphouse
CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Lavelle's Taphouse offers a popular dining and drinking establishment near Fort Wainwright. The venue features an extensive selection of craft beers, including local Alaskan brews not found elsewhere. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the warm atmosphere and quality beverages in this highly-rated establishment.
11. Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point
ENGINEERING MARVEL OVERLOOK
The Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point provides visitors with an up-close look at the famous Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. This engineering marvel stretches 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez and has been crucial to Alaska's economy since the 1970s. Interpretive displays explain the pipeline's construction, operation, and significance to Alaska's development.
12. Aurora Ice Museum
FROZEN ART GALLERY
The Aurora Ice Museum features spectacular ice sculptures and architecture maintained year-round in a controlled environment. The museum was created by world champion ice carver Steve Brice and includes an ice bar where visitors can enjoy appletinis in carved ice glasses. Tours of this unique attraction allow visitors to experience a winter wonderland regardless of the outside temperature.
13. Murphy Dome
PANORAMIC WILDERNESS VIEWS
Murphy Dome offers spectacular hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding Alaskan wilderness. At an elevation of 2,930 feet, it's one of the best locations for viewing both the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter. The accessible site provides photographers and nature lovers with breathtaking vistas of the Alaska Range and Denali on clear days.
14. Chena River State Recreation Area
RIVERSIDE WILDERNESS PLAYGROUND
Chena River State Recreation Area provides opportunities for family rafting trips and outdoor recreation along the scenic Chena River. The 397-square-mile park features numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas accessible from Fort Wainwright. Visitors can experience Alaska's natural beauty through activities ranging from gentle river floats to more adventurous wilderness hiking.
15. Gold Dredge 8
HISTORIC MINING EXPERIENCE
Gold Dredge 8 offers families an authentic gold-panning adventure near Fort Wainwright. This historic gold mining site provides educational tours explaining Alaska's rich gold rush history. Visitors can try their luck at finding real gold and take home their discoveries as unique souvenirs of their Alaskan experience.