
Downtown Fairbanks
Fairbanks, Alaska: Experience the magic of the Northern Lights, the wonder of the midnight sun, and the charm of a true Alaskan winter.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime aurora viewing time

Downtown Fairbanks
Best Time
Prime aurora viewing time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Fairbanks, Alaska: Experience the magic of the Northern Lights, the wonder of the midnight sun, and the charm of a true Alaskan winter.
"Fairbanks is one of the most epic bucket list destinations in the entire US."

Dress for the Cold! :snowflake:
Layer up with thermal wear, insulated jackets, and waterproof boots. Extreme cold is no joke in Fairbanks!
Aurora Hunting Apps :iphone:
Download aurora forecast apps to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Patience is key!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Northern Lights
Various viewing spots outside the city
Witness the ethereal dance of the aurora borealis painting the night sky in vibrant colors. A truly unforgettable spectacle.

World Ice Championship
Downtown Fairbanks
Marvel at intricate ice sculptures created by artists from around the globe during this spectacular annual event.
Humble Roots Beer Project
Downtown Fairbanks
Enjoy local craft beers in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with good vibes and aesthetic details.

Riverfront Exploration
Downtown Fairbanks Riverwalk
Stroll along the riverwalk, enjoying scenic views and the unique charm of downtown Fairbanks, especially during the solstice.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cold: Fairbanks in Winter
Summer's Midnight Sun Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress for the Cold! :snowflake:
Layer up with thermal wear, insulated jackets, and waterproof boots. Extreme cold is no joke in Fairbanks!
Aurora Hunting Apps :iphone:
Download aurora forecast apps to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Patience is key!
Book in Advance :ticket:
Especially for winter activities and summer accommodations, booking ahead is crucial to secure your spot.
Embrace the Daylight :sunrise:
During summer, take advantage of the nearly 24-hour daylight to explore more of downtown Fairbanks.
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress for the Cold! :snowflake:
Layer up with thermal wear, insulated jackets, and waterproof boots. Extreme cold is no joke in Fairbanks!
Aurora Hunting Apps :iphone:
Download aurora forecast apps to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Patience is key!
Book in Advance :ticket:
Especially for winter activities and summer accommodations, booking ahead is crucial to secure your spot.
Embrace the Daylight :sunrise:
During summer, take advantage of the nearly 24-hour daylight to explore more of downtown Fairbanks.
Local Brews :beer:
Check out local breweries like Humble Roots for a taste of Fairbanks' community spirit and craft beer scene.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fairbanks offers a unique Alaskan experience, particularly for those seeking the magic of the Northern Lights and the charm of winter activities like ice sculpting. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and the distinctiveness of the midnight sun in summer. However, some find the city itself to be quiet and lacking in diverse attractions, especially outside of peak seasons or specific events.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to get from Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) to downtown Fairbanks is by taxi or rideshare service, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Some hotels also offer shuttle services.
Downtown Fairbanks is quite walkable, especially during the summer months. For exploring areas further out, consider renting a car or utilizing local taxi services.
Driving conditions can be challenging in winter due to snow and ice. Always check road conditions and ensure your vehicle is equipped for cold weather.
Fairbanks has a public bus system, though routes and frequency may be limited, especially outside of peak seasons. Taxis and rideshares are more readily available.
Yes, Fairbanks is a significant hub for road trips in Alaska, offering unique experiences like aurora viewing and access to Denali National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For popular attractions like the World Ice Championship or guided aurora tours, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Shop hours can vary, particularly in winter. Many downtown shops have shorter hours in the colder months. It's best to check individual business websites or call ahead.
Yes, exploring the Riverwalk, enjoying the summer solstice light, and window shopping are free activities. Check for community events in parks like Slaterville Park.
Many tour operators offer aurora viewing packages. Booking directly through their websites or reputable travel agencies is recommended.
No, there is no entrance fee for Fairbanks International Airport. It's a small, single-terminal airport.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key sights include the historic downtown area, the Riverwalk, and during winter, the World Ice Championship. Keep an eye out for local art installations.
Summer offers long daylight hours for hiking and exploring, while winter is ideal for aurora viewing, dog sledding, and ice sculpting.
While some locations might appear under long-term renovation and give an abandoned feel, it's important to respect private property and safety guidelines.
While downtown is urban, you might spot local birds. For more significant wildlife viewing, excursions to areas outside the city are recommended.
Fairbanks is generally a safe city. As with any travel, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Fairbanks offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to breweries like Humble Roots Beer Project, known for its local brews and good vibes.
Many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's advisable to check menus online or call ahead to inquire about vegetarian and vegan choices.
Expect hearty, comforting dishes often featuring local ingredients like salmon and game. Breweries often offer pub fare.
Yes, there are several coffee shops in and around downtown Fairbanks, perfect for warming up or grabbing a quick bite.
Trying local Alaskan specialties like reindeer sausage or fresh salmon is a must. Visiting a local brewery offers a unique taste of the community.
📸 📸 Photography
The Riverwalk offers scenic views, especially during the summer solstice. The historic buildings and winter ice sculptures also make for great photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens, a sturdy tripod, and a camera with good low-light performance are essential for capturing the Northern Lights.
During summer, the 'golden hour' extends for hours due to the midnight sun. Winter offers dramatic light for snow-covered landscapes and aurora.
Yes, specialized photography tours, particularly for aurora viewing, are available and can help you find the best vantage points.
Capturing the aurora borealis, intricate ice sculptures, and the unique light of the midnight sun are iconic Fairbanks photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In the summer, take advantage of the midnight sun for extended playtime. Strolling along the Riverwalk is a pleasant and easy activity. Parks like Slaterville Park often host community events with activities for kids. Many local outfitters also offer family-friendly tours, so inquire about options suitable for younger travelers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for local events and festivals, which often have free admission. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late fall or early spring) for potentially lower accommodation prices. While dining out can add up, seeking out local diners and cafes can offer more affordable meal options.
🌌 Aurora Enthusiasts
While seeing the aurora is a natural phenomenon, utilizing aurora forecast apps and booking with experienced tour operators can significantly increase your chances. Patience is key, as the lights can appear and disappear quickly. Even if the aurora is faint, the experience of being under the vast Alaskan night sky is memorable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Chasing the Aurora Borealis
Many visitors opt for guided aurora tours, which often include transportation to optimal viewing locations, hot beverages, and sometimes even photography tips. These tours can be a great way to learn about the science behind the aurora and increase your chances of a successful viewing. Remember to dress in multiple warm layers, as winter nights can be extremely cold.
While Fairbanks offers a good chance of seeing the aurora, factors like cloud cover and solar activity play a significant role. Checking aurora forecast apps and websites can help you plan your viewing attempts. Even if the aurora doesn't appear, the vast, star-filled Alaskan sky is a spectacle in itself.
Experiencing Fairbanks' Winter Charm
Beyond the ice sculptures, winter in Fairbanks offers opportunities for dog sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Many local outfitters provide guided tours and equipment rentals, allowing you to experience the Alaskan wilderness firsthand. The Ice Museum at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is another fascinating attraction, showcasing permanent ice sculptures that are illuminated to create a magical effect.
Even simply exploring downtown Fairbanks during winter has its own charm. The cozy shops and restaurants offer a warm respite from the cold, and the snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque setting. Just remember to bundle up; Fairbanks is known as the coldest city in the U.S., so proper winter gear is essential.
Summer in the Land of the Midnight Sun
Summer is also a great time to visit the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), which offers various museums and research facilities, including the Museum of the North. The longer days are ideal for visiting nearby natural attractions like Chena Hot Springs or exploring the vast Alaskan wilderness. The Tanana Valley Railroad Museum is another popular spot for history buffs.
While the extended daylight is a major draw, it also signifies peak tourist season. It's advisable to book accommodations and popular tours in advance to ensure availability. Despite the crowds, the unique experience of a summer solstice in Fairbanks, with its endless daylight, is truly magical.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit