A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Fairbanks for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Fairbanks. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a charming, quaint, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Alexandria travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come to Fairbanks because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Alexandria and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alexandria. Although Alexandria and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Alexandria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alexandria is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Mount Vernon. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Alexandria different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fairbanks and Alexandria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Alexandria is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Fairbanks for snow skiing. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Alexandria is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Alexandria is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Fairbanks is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Alexandria has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Fairbanks for the hiking trails. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Alexandria is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Fairbanks is a great destination for shopping. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Fairbanks because of it's amazing beauty. The city offers access to Alaska's interior, as well as the Arctic. The scenery is spectacular and the wildlife is abundant. Fairbanks is also the best place in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. They are best seen between the months of August and April.

Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Fairbanks is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Fairbanks offers lots of family activities. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Alexandria is a very popular place for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Alexandria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Alexandria is top-notch. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Alexandria or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Alexandria. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Fairbanks is not a walkable city. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Alexandria or Fairbanks. In our opinion, Alexandria has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Alexandria than Fairbanks. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Fairbanks than Alexandria. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Fairbanks, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Fairbanks. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Alexandria that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Fairbanks if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Alexandria.

One day in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and shopping around the Arctic city of Fairbanks, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Fairbanks, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Alexandria. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fairbanks, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fairbanks is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Fairbanks would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fairbanks than you might in Alexandria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Fairbanks Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Fairbanks, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Fairbanks?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Fairbanks. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Alexandria or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Alexandria is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during winter. Alexandria can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Alexandria is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Alexandria during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. Alexandria is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Alexandria