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

Should you visit Seattle or Fairbanks?

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

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

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back 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 live music, food, and beaches.

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.

Seattle and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seattle or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Seattle and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing and impressive beauty. Seattle is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Seattle different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle is not a skiing destination.

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

Seattle 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.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art 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 Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Theater?

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

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Fairbanks is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place 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 Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

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

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Music?

Seattle 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 Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a popular place for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Seattle and Fairbanks are both places where visitors can find very good hiking trails.

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Seattle or Fairbanks?

Both Seattle and Fairbanks are nice shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Seattle to go shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Fairbanks. 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 Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Seattle and Fairbanks are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly city. 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 Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Seattle and Fairbanks are both nice to visit as a couple.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's 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 Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Seattle or Fairbanks Better for Students?

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

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

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

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Seattle or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Seattle?

How long in Seattle or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

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

One day in Seattle or Fairbanks?

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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. 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 Seattle or Fairbanks?

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. 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 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 Seattle or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the laid-back city of Seattle. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Seattle or Fairbanks?

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Seattle or Fairbanks?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Seattle 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 Seattle 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 Seattle or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Seattle during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Seattle is around the same temperature as Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Seattle averages around 67°F (19°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Seattle usually gets less rain in July than Fairbanks. Seattle gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seattle or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seattle and Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, 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 the autumn, Seattle is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seattle in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Seattle usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Seattle gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seattle or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seattle as well as Fairbanks. The winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. In January, Seattle is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Seattle average around 42°F (5°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. Seattle usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Seattle gets 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seattle or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Seattle are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. Seattle is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Seattle averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Seattle usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Seattle gets 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Seattle