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

Should you visit Beaufort or Fairbanks?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Fairbanks, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a historic, character-filled, and southern town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Fairbanks

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

Beaufort and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Fairbanks is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. 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 Beaufort different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Beaufort is not a skiing destination.

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.

Beaufort is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Beaufort and Fairbanks have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Fairbanks offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Beaufort or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

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 Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

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 Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Beaufort is a popular place for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

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.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Both Beaufort and Fairbanks are notable shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fairbanks. 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 Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Fairbanks is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Beaufort makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

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 Beaufort or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is notable for backpackers. However, Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

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

Neither Beaufort or Fairbanks offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Public transit is quite limited 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 Beaufort or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

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 Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fairbanks due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

One day in Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Fairbanks offers museums and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Fairbanks is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fairbanks, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Beaufort 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beaufort and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is Beaufort much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaufort would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaufort 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 Beaufort.

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

Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort 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 Beaufort or Fairbanks?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beaufort or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Beaufort during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beaufort or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. Beaufort is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beaufort or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Fairbanks. The winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the winter. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Beaufort usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beaufort or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In April, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Beaufort