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

Should you visit Hershey or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Hershey 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.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a Arctic, unique, and outdoorsy city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hershey and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hershey or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fairbanks than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fairbanks is better known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Fairbanks is well known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights. Also, Fairbanks is famous for The Northern Lights.

How is Hershey different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hershey or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Hershey 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.

Hershey is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car 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 Hershey or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Hershey and Fairbanks offer respectable local cuisine and restaurants.

Hershey offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fairbanks. 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 Hershey or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Hershey 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 Hershey. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

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 Hershey or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Hershey is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Hershey or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Fairbanks. 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.

Hershey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Fairbanks?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Fairbanks and Hershey.

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

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 Hershey or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Hershey is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hershey is a very family-friendly destination. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

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 Hershey or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Hershey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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 Hershey or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options 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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.

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

Hershey 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 Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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 Hershey or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Hershey is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Hershey is generally not a very walkable town. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

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 Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fairbanks than Hershey 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 Hershey or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hershey or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

In Fairbanks, you'll find museums and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fairbanks has to offer.

Five days in Hershey or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled town of Hershey. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hershey or Fairbanks?

Hershey is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Fairbanks. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hershey or Fairbanks?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Fairbanks. The summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

In July, Hershey is generally a little warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 77°F (25°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. Hershey is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Hershey usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hershey or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Hershey during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Hershey. In the winter, Hershey is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Hershey usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hershey or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Fairbanks. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during spring. In April, Hershey is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Hershey