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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

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

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

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a remote, Arctic, and unique city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and hiking.

Philadelphia and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Philadelphia different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

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

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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.

Is Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Fairbanks is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Fairbanks is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

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

Philadelphia has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Philadelphia while you're in town. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

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

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Fairbanks does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Philadelphia is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Fairbanks does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Fairbanks does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Fairbanks does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Fairbanks are both good to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Fairbanks is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Fairbanks Better for Students?

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

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Philadelphia can get you to most places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

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

One day in Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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 museums and shopping that this outdoorsy city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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.

Fairbanks is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and shopping around the remote destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

Philadelphia 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 place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Fairbanks?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Philadelphia is a little warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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. In October, Philadelphia is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Philadelphia usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Fairbanks. The winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. Philadelphia is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Fairbanks. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In the spring, Philadelphia is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

Philadelphia usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Philadelphia