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

Should you visit Charleston or Fairbanks?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a outdoorsy, remote, and Arctic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, hiking, and shopping.

Charleston and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston. Although Charleston and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Charleston is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Charleston different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Charleston 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.

Charleston is not a skiing destination.

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Charleston or Fairbanks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

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 Charleston or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Charleston 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 Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

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 Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Charleston has a few great resort options. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

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

Charleston is considered a top beach destination. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

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

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston 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.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Fairbanks?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Charleston specifically to go shopping. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Fairbanks does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Charleston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Fairbanks does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Fairbanks does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Charleston and Fairbanks are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly coastal 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 Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

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 Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Fairbanks is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Charleston or Fairbanks Better for Students?

Charleston is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Fairbanks is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

Charleston 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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 Charleston or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

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

One day in Charleston or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint coastal town of Charleston. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 remote 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 Charleston or Fairbanks?

You'll find live music and food around the classic destination of Charleston. 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 coastal town has to offer. This coastal town 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 Charleston or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque coastal town of Charleston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

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 Charleston or Fairbanks?

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, one week is sufficent for most. 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 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 Charleston and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is Charleston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charleston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charleston 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 Charleston.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Fairbanks?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston or Fairbanks in the Summer?

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

Charleston is much warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, 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. In the autumn, Charleston is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charleston in October average around 67°F (19°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Charleston usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Charleston or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Fairbanks. The winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, 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 January, Charleston is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 47°F (9°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Charleston usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Fairbanks in the Spring?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. Charleston is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Charleston usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Charleston