A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Breckenridge vs. Fairbanks for Skiing, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Fairbanks? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a scenic, nature-filled, and charming ski resort. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a outdoorsy, remote, and Arctic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and hiking.

Breckenridge and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Breckenridge and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Breckenridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Fairbanks is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Breckenridge is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also home to The Family-Friendly Ski Resort. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Breckenridge different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for winter skiing.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Breckenridge should be on your list. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

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 Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

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 Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

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 Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

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

Breckenridge has an old town worth visiting. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

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 Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Fairbanks does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Fairbanks does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Fairbanks does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Breckenridge offer plenty to see during the holidays. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Fairbanks does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. 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 Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Breckenridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

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 Breckenridge or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fairbanks is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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

Breckenridge is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

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 Breckenridge or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Breckenridge is an amazing ski resort 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 Breckenridge. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Breckenridge or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Breckenridge due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge.

One day in Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

In Fairbanks, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this remote city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Fairbanks is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer.

You'll find museums and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Breckenridge is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Breckenridge, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fairbanks is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge 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.