A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Barbara vs. Fairbanks for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Santa Barbara 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.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a stunning, wealthy, and opulent coastal town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a outdoorsy, remote, and Arctic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, hiking, and shopping.

Santa Barbara and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Barbara. Although Santa Barbara and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Santa Barbara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Barbara is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing. Santa Barbara is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. It is also well known for The Old Mission Santa Barbara. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Santa Barbara different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Santa Barbara 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.

Santa Barbara is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Santa Barbara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Santa Barbara has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Santa Barbara is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Barbara. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

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

Santa Barbara has an old town worth visiting. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Santa Barbara specifically to go shopping. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Santa Barbara makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fairbanks is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Santa Barbara or Fairbanks Better for Students?

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

Santa Barbara is a very popular coastal town for students and younger travelers. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

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

Santa Barbara has some public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

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 Santa Barbara or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Santa Barbara is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Santa Barbara?

How long in Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal town of Santa Barbara. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the remote destination of Fairbanks. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the scenic destination of Santa Barbara. 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 coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic coastal town of Santa Barbara. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the unique destination of Fairbanks. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

Santa Barbara 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 beautiful city of Fairbanks. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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 Santa Barbara and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is Santa Barbara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Barbara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

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

Which is Bigger, Santa Barbara or Fairbanks?

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

Both Fairbanks and Santa Barbara during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

Santa Barbara is around the same temperature as Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Santa Barbara averages around 65°F (19°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Santa Barbara usually gets less rain in July than Fairbanks. Santa Barbara gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Barbara and Fairbanks. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Santa Barbara 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 the autumn, Santa Barbara is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Santa Barbara in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Santa Barbara usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. Santa Barbara gets 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Santa Barbara as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Santa Barbara 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. In January, Santa Barbara is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Santa Barbara average around 52°F (11°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Santa Barbara usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Santa Barbara gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Santa Barbara are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during spring. Santa Barbara is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Santa Barbara averages around 57°F (14°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Santa Barbara usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Santa Barbara gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Santa Barbara