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

Should you visit Marathon or Fairbanks?

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

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

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Marathon and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fairbanks than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fairbanks is better known for its skiing, museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Marathon is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Marathon is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. 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 Marathon different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a skiing destination.

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

Fairbanks is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Marathon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

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 Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Marathon 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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

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

Marathon is considered a top beach destination. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is great for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Fairbanks for the hiking trails. 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Marathon 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 Marathon. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

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 Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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 Marathon or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Fairbanks is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Neither Marathon or Fairbanks offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

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 Marathon or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

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

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. 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 Marathon or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island 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 Marathon or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island 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 Marathon or Fairbanks?

Marathon 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 Marathon, 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Fairbanks?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Marathon is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, 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. Marathon is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Marathon because of the cuisine. Also, 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 the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Marathon usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Marathon usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Marathon