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

Should you visit Phoenix or Fairbanks?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Fairbanks can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping.

Phoenix and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phoenix or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fairbanks. Although Phoenix and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Fairbanks has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fairbanks is very popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Phoenix attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Fairbanks is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights. It is also well known for The Northern Lights. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Phoenix different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Phoenix or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Phoenix is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Fairbanks for snow skiing. 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.

Phoenix is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Fairbanks and Phoenix.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

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

Phoenix is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

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 Phoenix or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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 Phoenix or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great city for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Fairbanks?

If you're looking to go shopping, Phoenix and Fairbanks both offer plenty of nice spots.

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

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 Phoenix or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Both Phoenix and Fairbanks are nice to visit with kids.

Phoenix offers lots of family activities. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Phoenix or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Both Phoenix and Fairbanks are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Phoenix is a good city for couples to visit. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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 Phoenix or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

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

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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 Phoenix or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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 Phoenix Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Phoenix or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fairbanks due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Phoenix, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

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

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

In Fairbanks, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Phoenix or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling destination of Phoenix. 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.

In Fairbanks, you'll find museums and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fairbanks has to offer.

Five days in Phoenix or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the sprawling city of Phoenix. 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.

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Phoenix or Fairbanks?

Phoenix 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Fairbanks. 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.

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 comparing the travel costs between Phoenix and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Fairbanks?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. Phoenix is much warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 98°F (36°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phoenix or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Phoenix in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Phoenix is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phoenix in October average around 79°F (26°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Phoenix usually gets less rain in October than Fairbanks. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phoenix or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In January, Phoenix is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 58°F (14°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Phoenix usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Phoenix or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Phoenix during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the spring. Phoenix is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Phoenix usually gets less rain in April than Fairbanks. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Phoenix