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

Should you visit Miami or Fairbanks?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Fairbanks can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a glamorous, exciting, and diverse beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

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.

Miami and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Miami than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Fairbanks is more popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Fairbanks is well known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Miami different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Miami or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

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

Miami is not a skiing destination.

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

Fairbanks is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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 Miami or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami or Fairbanks Better for Music?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its music scene. However, Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Miami has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Miami is a great choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Miami. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Miami or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

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

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Fairbanks?

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Miami specifically to go shopping. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Miami or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Miami 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 Miami. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

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 Miami or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Miami makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

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 Miami or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is well known for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Miami or Fairbanks Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

Miami is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Miami has some public transit options. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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 Miami or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Miami?

How long in Miami or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

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

One day in Miami or Fairbanks?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this unique destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Fairbanks?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. 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 beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the high energy beach city of Miami. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Fairbanks. 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.

A week in Miami or Fairbanks?

Miami 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.

You'll find museums and shopping around the Arctic destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Fairbanks?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Miami as well as Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Miami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the autumn. Miami is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

It's quite rainy in Miami. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Miami or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Miami during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Miami usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the spring for the natural beauty.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Miami usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Miami