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

Should you visit Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. 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.

Lewisburg and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fairbanks than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fairbanks is better known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm. Fairbanks is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular 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. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

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

Lewisburg is not a skiing destination.


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

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

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

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's 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 Lewisburg or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lewisburg and Fairbanks can be difficult as they are each respectable in their own way.

Lewisburg offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

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 Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

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 Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

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

Lewisburg has an old town worth visiting. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Shopping is a popular activity in both Fairbanks and Lewisburg.

Lewisburg is a great destination for shopping. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

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 Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lewisburg or Fairbanks.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lewisburg. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Fairbanks offers lots of family activities. 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 Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.


Is Lewisburg or Fairbanks Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

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

Plenty of students visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

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 Lewisburg or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Fairbanks

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable town. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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 Lewisburg Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Fairbanks? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Fairbanks 2-4

One day in Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Lewisburg. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lewisburg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Fairbanks. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and shopping around the charming destination of Lewisburg. 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.

You'll find museums and shopping around the remote destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint town of Lewisburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the unique city of Fairbanks. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

Lewisburg is a popular choice for travelers. 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 popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Fairbanks or Lewisburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $136, while the average daily cost in Fairbanks is $272. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lewisburg and Fairbanks in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Fairbanks $154
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Fairbanks $308
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Fairbanks

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Fairbanks? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lewisburg


Hotels in Fairbanks


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Fairbanks Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Fairbanks $66

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Fairbanks

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Fairbanks:


  • Full Tank of Gas
    $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

Prices for flights to both Fairbanks and Lewisburg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lewisburg $34
    Fairbanks $63

Typical Food Prices in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two at Pike's Landing
    $63
  • Totem Inn Breakfast for Two
    $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Best Northern Lights Aurora Adventure FREE Portraits & Hot Pizza : $300

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Fairbanks $65

Typical Entertainment Prices in Fairbanks

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Fairbanks's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • The Riverboat Discovery Trip
    $55
  • 1 Day Mountain Bike Rental
    $27
  • Canoe Rental with Pickup
    $56

Tours and Activities in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Fairbanks, AK: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Gold Dredge 8 Historic Train Tour: $58
  • Riverboat Cruise and Local Village Tour: $95
  • Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience in North Pole: $99
  • Summer Mushing Cart Ride & Kennel Tour: $100
  • Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience: $105
  • From Northern Lights & Murphy Dome Tour: $120
  • Aurora Chaser Tour: $125
  • Budget Aurora Borealis tour, Fairbanks, Alaska : $125
  • 3 Hour Ice Fishing Experience: $135
  • Fairbanks Heritage Sightseeing Tour: $140
  • Fairbanks Autumn/Winter City Tour: $140

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Fairbanks $27


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

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


Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg or Fairbanks in the Summer?

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

In July, Lewisburg is generally a little warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 74°F (24°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Lewisburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Lewisburg usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Lewisburg gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C) 
    Fairbanks 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Lewisburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Lewisburg 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. Lewisburg is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Lewisburg gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C) 
    Fairbanks 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Lewisburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lewisburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Lewisburg. In the winter, Lewisburg is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lewisburg in January average around 27°F (-3°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Lewisburg gets 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C) 
    Fairbanks -9°F (-23°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lewisburg and Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Lewisburg in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during spring. In April, Lewisburg is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 51°F (11°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C) 
    Fairbanks 32°F (0°C)

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Lewisburg

Lewisburg Fairbanks
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm) -9°F (-23°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) -2°F (-19°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Mar 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 32°F (0°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
May 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 50°F (10°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 62°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 4°F (-15°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm) -5°F (-21°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)