A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Olympic National Park vs. Fairbanks for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a stunning, vast, and pristine park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

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.

Olympic National Park and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

Both Fairbanks and Olympic National Park have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Olympic National Park is more popular for its food, resorts, and hiking, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing, shopping, and impressive beauty. Olympic National Park is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Olympic National Park different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Olympic National Park or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Olympic National Park and Fairbanks.

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Fairbanks. 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 Olympic National Park or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Olympic National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

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 Olympic National Park or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Neither Olympic National Park or Fairbanks offer decent nightlife.

People don't go to Olympic National Park for the nightlife. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Fairbanks doesn't offer many options. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Olympic National Park or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Olympic National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Olympic National Park or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park 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.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Olympic National Park or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

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 Olympic National Park or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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 Olympic National Park or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Olympic National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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.

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

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access 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 Olympic National Park or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Neither Olympic National Park or Fairbanks are walkable places.

Olympic National Park is not a walkable park. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Olympic National Park?

How long in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park.

One day in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and museums around the park of Olympic National Park. 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. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and food around the stunning destination of Olympic National Park. 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 park has to offer. This park 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. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and museums around the pristine park of Olympic National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

Fairbanks is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Olympic National Park or Fairbanks?

Olympic National Park 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 outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Olympic National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

In the summer, Olympic National Park is cooler than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Olympic National Park in July average around 60°F (15°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Olympic National Park usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Olympic National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Olympic National Park or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Olympic National Park and Fairbanks. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Olympic National Park 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. In October, Olympic National Park is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Olympic National Park average around 51°F (10°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Olympic National Park usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Olympic National Park gets 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Olympic National Park or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Olympic National Park as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. Olympic National Park is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Olympic National Park averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Olympic National Park usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Olympic National Park gets 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Olympic National Park or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Olympic National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the spring for 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, Olympic National Park is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Olympic National Park in April average around 47°F (8°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. In April, Olympic National Park usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Olympic National Park gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Olympic National Park