University of Alaska Museum of the North
Discover Alaska's art, science, and history in a stunning building, featuring ancient mummies and vibrant cultural displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
University of Alaska Museum of the North
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Alaska's art, science, and history in a stunning building, featuring ancient mummies and vibrant cultural displays.
"A true gem and an essential stop for anyone visiting or living in Fairbanks!"
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore all the fascinating exhibits.
🎧 Experience 'The Place Where You Go To Listen'
Don't miss this unique, immersive sound and light installation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blue Babe: The 36,000-Year-Old Bison
Main Exhibits
Marvel at this remarkably preserved Ice Age steppe bison mummy, a true testament to Alaska's ancient past.
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Alaska Native Cultures
Cultural Exhibits
Explore the rich heritage and artistry of Alaska's indigenous peoples through intricate carvings, masks, and historical artifacts.
The Place Where You Go To Listen
Special Exhibit
Immerse yourself in an ever-changing sound and light experience designed for quiet contemplation and reflection.
Arctic Dinosaurs & Wildlife
Natural History Exhibits
Discover fossils of Arctic dinosaurs and admire taxidermied specimens of Alaska's diverse and fascinating wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Maximizing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore all the fascinating exhibits. +1
🎧 Experience 'The Place Where You Go To Listen'
Don't miss this unique, immersive sound and light installation.
🚗 Parking is available
Ample parking is usually available at the museum.
🥾 Comfortable shoes recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything!
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore all the fascinating exhibits. +1
🎧 Experience 'The Place Where You Go To Listen'
Don't miss this unique, immersive sound and light installation.
🚗 Parking is available
Ample parking is usually available at the museum.
🥾 Comfortable shoes recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything!
📸 Photography is allowed
Capture the incredible exhibits, but check for any specific restrictions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the University of Alaska Museum of the North for its diverse and informative exhibits, particularly 'Blue Babe' and the extensive art collections. The unique 'Place Where You Go To Listen' exhibit is also a highlight. Some find the cafe offerings to be overpriced and mediocre, but this is a minor point against an otherwise highly recommended experience. +2
"Museum itself is great, definitely worth the price of admission. I love the way the main exhibits are set out and how many topics are covered. If you're freaked out by taxidermy, be aware that there is a lot, but it's mostly well done and always tasteful. One star taken away because I had hoped to get lunch and had half a sandwich that was mid and overpriced even for your average museum cafe. But cafe aside, I had a great time here and especially loved all the pinniped carvings and masks 💖"
Morgan Lynn Smithson
"Informative and worth the cost of admission. So much to look at, learn, and so many interesting experiences to have. I highly recommend experiencing “The Place Where You Go To Listen”, if only for a couple of minutes. Additionally, if you catch it on the right day, you might also get a glimpse of Denali like we did. We didn’t know how lucky we were as we had just arrived in Alaska for the first time but there’s a fantastic vista very close to the parking lot. In addition to the natural history exhibits, there is a lot of art to see by Alaskan artists along with native exhibits and exploration artifacts and equipment. So much cool stuff to experience that really set the tone for our great Alaska adventure. Don’t miss it!"
Chad Taylor
"This is a fascinating natural history museum. There is so much to see. There is a schedule of when videos are playing. They have an art museum as well. The gift shop is small but has unique items. They also have a little cafe that you can stop at. There is an elevator for those who cannot climb stairs. We spent a lot of time walking through the museum. They offer a veteran/military discount as well as a senior discount."
Donna Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. You can drive there, and parking is generally available. Public transportation options might be limited, so checking local bus routes in Fairbanks is advisable.
While specific routes can change, it's best to check with the local Fairbanks public transit authority for the most up-to-date information on bus routes serving the university campus.
Driving is the most straightforward method. Taxis or rideshare services are also options. If using public transport, confirm the relevant bus lines that stop near the UAF campus.
The drive to the museum is part of the Fairbanks experience, offering glimpses of the Alaskan landscape. Some visitors enjoy the drive as part of their overall exploration of the area.
Yes, if you are visiting other attractions like Chena Hot Springs or the North Pole, you can incorporate a visit to the museum into your itinerary. Ensure you have transportation arranged.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission for adults is around $22 USD for foreigners, with potential discounts for seniors and military personnel. It's always best to check the official museum website for the most current pricing. +1
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or for special events, is recommended to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Museum hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official University of Alaska Museum of the North website for the most accurate and up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, the museum typically offers discounts for seniors, military personnel, and sometimes for students. Check their website or inquire at the ticket counter for details.
Student discounts may be available. It's advisable to present your valid student ID at the ticket counter or check the museum's admission policy online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss 'Blue Babe,' the 36,000-year-old bison mummy, the 'Place Where You Go To Listen' immersive exhibit, and the extensive collections of Alaska Native art and natural history. +1
Yes, the museum offers engaging exhibits on dinosaurs, wildlife, and culture that can captivate children. The interactive elements and visual displays are generally well-received by younger visitors.
Most visitors spend between 2 to 3 hours to thoroughly explore the museum's diverse exhibits. Some may spend longer if they delve deeply into specific areas. +1
The museum has a small cafe that offers light snacks and beverages. However, reviews suggest the food can be mid-priced and not exceptional, so some visitors opt to eat elsewhere.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's architecture itself is very photogenic. Inside, 'Blue Babe,' the Alaska Native art displays, and the 'Place Where You Go To Listen' offer unique photographic opportunities.
Typically, flash photography is discouraged or prohibited in museums to protect artifacts and artworks. Always look for signage or ask museum staff if unsure.
Drone usage is generally restricted in and around university campuses and public buildings. It's best to check with the university's policies and local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile camera with good low-light capabilities is recommended, especially for exhibits like 'The Place Where You Go To Listen.' A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the architecture and larger displays.
Photography of art exhibits is usually allowed for personal use, but it's wise to confirm with museum staff, as some special exhibitions might have different rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider dedicating extra time to the natural history sections. While the museum has a cafe, reviews suggest it's a bit pricey and the food is just okay, so packing snacks or planning for a meal outside the museum might be a good idea for families.
🏛️ Art & Culture Enthusiasts
+2Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historical context behind these pieces and understand their significance within Alaskan society. The museum's architecture itself is also a work of art, providing a stunning backdrop for the collections.
🔬 Science & History Buffs
+1Learn about the geological formations, the unique ecosystems, and the scientific endeavors that have shaped our understanding of the Arctic. The museum effectively blends scientific data with engaging visual displays.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Alaska's Ancient Past: 'Blue Babe'
+1Seeing 'Blue Babe' offers a tangible connection to Alaska's Pleistocene era, a time when megafauna roamed the land. The exhibit provides context about the Ice Age environment and the scientific research involved in studying such ancient specimens. It's a powerful reminder of the deep history embedded within the Alaskan landscape.
+1The Artistry of Alaska: From Ancient to Contemporary
+2This artistic journey provides insight into the cultural narratives, spiritual beliefs, and daily lives of Alaska's people. The juxtaposition of ancient craftsmanship with modern artistic expression highlights the enduring creativity and resilience of Alaskan artists. It's a vibrant testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.
+1Immersive Experiences: 'The Place Where You Go To Listen'
It's an opportunity to step away from the visual stimulation of other exhibits and immerse oneself in a more abstract, auditory experience. Many visitors find it to be a profoundly calming and memorable part of their visit, offering a different way to connect with the museum's themes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit