A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Avon vs. Fairbanks for Skiing, Hiking, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Avon 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 Avon 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.

Avon

Avon is a active, outdoorsy, and scenic town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Avon travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a outdoorsy, remote, and Arctic city. You'll find world class beauty in Fairbanks as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Avon and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for skiing
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Avon or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Avon than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Avon is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, and resorts, while Fairbanks is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Avon is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort. Also, Avon is famous for Avon Recreation Center. Fairbanks is well known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Avon different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Avon or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Avon
Fairbanks

Avon is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for winter skiing.

Avon draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Locals like to visit Fairbanks to take advantage of their winter sports. 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.


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

Avon
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

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

Avon
Fairbanks

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

Avon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

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 Avon or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Avon
Fairbanks

Avon 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 Avon. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.

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 Avon or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

Avon
Fairbanks

Avon is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Avon has a few great resort options. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Avon or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Avon
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is notable for the nearby hiking options. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Fairbanks is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Avon is a good destination for hiking. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Is the Shopping Better in Avon or Fairbanks?

Avon
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a good destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.


Is Avon or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Avon
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Fairbanks as well. 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.

Avon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Avon or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Avon
Fairbanks

Both Avon and Fairbanks are notable family-friendly destinations.

Avon is a family-friendly place to visit. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly town. 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.

Is Avon or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Avon
Fairbanks

Avon and Fairbanks both notable destinations for a couple.

Avon is a nice destination for couples. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.

Fairbanks makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Avon or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Avon
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is notable for backpackers. However, Avon is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Avon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers prefer to stay closer to the ski facilities.

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

Avon
Fairbanks

Avon is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Avon has some public transit options. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

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 Avon or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Avon
Fairbanks

Avon is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Avon is a somewhat walkable town. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Avon?

How long in Avon or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fairbanks than Avon 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 Fairbanks.


  • How many days in Avon or Fairbanks? Ideal Length of Stay
    Avon 2-4 
    Fairbanks 2-4

One day in Avon or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Avon. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Fairbanks. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Avon or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and skiing around the scenic destination of Avon. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Fairbanks is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Avon or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the outdoorsy town of Avon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and shopping around the unique destination of Fairbanks. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Avon or Fairbanks?

Avon is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

The unique city of Fairbanks offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Fairbanks or Avon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Avon Prices
    USA Prices
    Fairbanks Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Avon $326
    Fairbanks $318

The average daily cost (per person) in Avon is $326, while the average daily cost in Fairbanks is $318. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Avon and Fairbanks in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Avon $177
    Fairbanks $154
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Avon $354
    Fairbanks $308
Compare Hotels in Avon and Fairbanks

Looking for a hotel in Avon or Fairbanks? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Avon


Hotels in Fairbanks


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Avon Hotel Prices and Fairbanks Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Avon $41
    Fairbanks $66

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Fairbanks

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Fairbanks:


  • Full Tank of Gas
    $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Avon or Fairbanks?

Prices for flights to both Fairbanks and Avon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Avon $117
    Fairbanks $109

Typical Food Prices in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two at Pike's Landing
    $63
  • Totem Inn Breakfast for Two
    $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Aurora Viewing and Dinner : $120
  • Late Night Yurt Dinner and Northern Lights: $210
  • Best Northern Lights Aurora Adventure FREE Portraits & Hot Pizza : $300
  • Northern Lights Adventure with Photos & HOT PIZZA: $300
  • Moonlight Dog Sled, Dinner & Northern Lights: $320

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Avon $48
    Fairbanks $65

Typical Entertainment Prices in Fairbanks

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Fairbanks's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • The Riverboat Discovery Trip
    $55
  • 1 Day Mountain Bike Rental
    $27
  • Canoe Rental with Pickup
    $56

Tours and Activities in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1.5-Hour Beer and Puppies Guided Experience in Fairbanks: $58
  • Gold Dredge 8 Historic Train Tour: $60
  • Extreme Cold Clothing Pkg - (Parka Snowpant Bibs Boots) No Tour: $65
  • Riverboat Cruise and Local Village Tour: $101
  • Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience: $105
  • 3-Hour Small Group 9-Hole Self-Guided Fairbanks Golf Experience: $114
  • From Northern Lights & Murphy Dome Tour: $130
  • 1 Hour Fall Sled Dog Experience in Two Rivers: $130
  • Summer Mushing Cart Ride & Kennel Tour: $135
  • Alaskan Summer Sled Dog Adventure: $135
  • Fairbanks Top City Highlights Tour: $140
  • Budget Aurora Borealis tour, Fairbanks, Alaska : $145

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Avon $38
    Fairbanks $27


When comparing the travel costs between Avon and Fairbanks, we can see that Avon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Avon or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Avon. When comparing the sizes of Avon 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.