What to do in Fairbanks, AK

Activities, attractions and tours

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Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Chena Hot Springs

Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort and relax in the natural mineral water pools. This resort features a range of bathing options, including a man-made lake, an indoor family swimming pool and numerous hot tubs. The Chena Hot Springs also houses a spectacular ice museum with its own ice bar.
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2. Pioneer Park

Fairbanks’ Pioneer Park is an extensive outdoor complex alongside the Chena River and the birthplace of the city itself. Formerly known as Alaskaland, the 44-acre (109-hectare) park brings the state’s pioneering heritage to life through historical museums and exciting hands-on exhibits. Climb on board a 1930s riverboat, explore a hangar full of restored aircraft and learn about the gold rush that shaped the region.
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3. Creamer's Field

Visit Creamer’s Field State Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, a bird sanctuary with viewing areas, wetlands and boreal forests. See a range of migratory birds, including northern pintail ducks, Canada geese and golden plovers. Take a guided walk through the sanctuary or participate in an educational event.
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4. Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

When visiting Fairbanks, make your first stop the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. This multipurpose venue exists to help visitors with any information they may need about the region of Interior Alaska. Come to this friendly and fascinating visitors center to pick up maps, find out about walking tours, explore the exhibits or enjoy a cultural event.
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5. University of Alaska Museum of the North

Find out about Alaska’s people and places in the Museum of the North, a comprehensive museum dedicated to sharing the state’s stories. Explore galleries of ancient and contemporary art from the region, learn about the state’s gold-mining heritage and be awed by video presentations of the northern lights.
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What to do in Fairbanks


Stay near popular Fairbanks attractions

Where to stay in Fairbanks

Find the best Fairbanks areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Fairbanks
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College

If you're spending some time in College, University of Alaska Museum of the North and Creamer's Field are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Fairbanks

If you're spending some time in Downtown Fairbanks, Fairbanks Ice Museum and Chena River are top sights worth seeing.

Westgate

Though Westgate may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pioneer Park and Carlson Center Event Arena.

Hamilton Acres

While Hamilton Acres isn't home to many top sights, Fort Wainwright and Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Aurora

Aurora might not have many top sights, but Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum and Creamer's Field are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Day trip destinations from Fairbanks

Frequently asked questions

Is Fairbanks worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are many interesting things to do in Fairbanks. Don't forget to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Fairbanks?
When you've checked off top attractions like Fairbanks Ice Museum and Creamer's Field, spend the rest of your day enjoying Fairbanks's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks Ice Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Fairbanks and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Fairbanks?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city sights, like Fairbanks Ice Museum, Creamer's Field and Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. The average stay in Fairbanks is three days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, North Pole isn't far away.
Is Fairbanks a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Fairbanks. Several key sights, like Fairbanks Ice Museum and Creamer's Field, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Fairbanks's neighbourhoods, College is 5 kilometres away from downtown, while Lemeta is 3 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Fairbanks with kids?
What to do in Fairbanks for adults?
Hoodoo Brewing Company and Large Animal Research Station are just a few of the things to do in Fairbanks. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Fairbanks?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Fairbanks is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.