A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Fairbanks for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Key West or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a eclectic, bustling, and active town. This is a charming small with plenty of 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, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

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.

Key West and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing, museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Key West is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also home to Duval Street. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Key West different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key West or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

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

Fairbanks is a fun local destination for snow skiers. 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.

Key West is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West 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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Key West is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

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

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

Key West 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 Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Fairbanks offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Key West 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 Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Fairbanks Better for Students?

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

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or Fairbanks offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

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 Key West or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Key West?

How long in Key West or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Key West or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Key West due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

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

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. 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.

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 Key West or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quirky destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Key West or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the active town of Key West. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

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 Key West or Fairbanks?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, one week is sufficent for most. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Fairbanks, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Fairbanks much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fairbanks would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fairbanks 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Fairbanks.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Key West during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

In the summer, Key West is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Key West usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Fairbanks. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Furthermore, 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. In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key West as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. Key West is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Key West usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

In April, Key West usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Key West