Are you thinking about visiting Fairbanks, Alaska? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Fairbanks worth visiting?
Yes, it's worth visiting this city for two to four days because of the many great activities. Fairbanks is the largest city in the interior of Alaska and for many it serves as a gateway to the Arctic. It's a popular destination for seeing the northern lights, but it also has a unique culture and great hiking. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in Money's Best Places to Travel in 2023.
Fairbanks, Alaksa
Reasons to Visit Fairbanks
Hiking
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.
Museums
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.
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.
Authenticity
Fairbanks has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Fairbanks worth visiting in the Summer?
Summer is the high season for travel in Fairbanks, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This destination is fairly touristy, and in the high season it's busier than usual.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).
The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to discover the nearby hiking trails and browse through museums.
Summer Weather in Fairbanks
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 18°C (64°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| August | 15°C (58°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) |
| September | 8°C (47°F) | 24 mm (0.9 in) |
Is Fairbanks worth visiting in the Autumn?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Fairbanks. Even though Fairbanks is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
The weather in Fairbanks can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around -3°C (27°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
During this season it's fun to experience the gorgeous scenery, the famous sights and museums, and the hiking.
Autumn Weather in Fairbanks
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | -3°C (27°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) |
| November | -15°C (4°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) |
| December | -21°C (-5°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) |
Is Fairbanks worth visiting in the Winter?
The weather in Fairbanks can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -23°C (-9°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The low season for travel in Fairbanks is during the winter. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.
This is a great time of year to browse the museums.
Winter Weather in Fairbanks
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | -23°C (-9°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) |
| February | -19°C (-2°F) | 11 mm (0.4 in) |
| March | -11°C (13°F) | 12 mm (0.5 in) |
Is Fairbanks worth visiting in the Spring?
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Fairbanks. Even though Fairbanks is fairly busy with tourists, in the shoulder season there will be smaller crowds and better prices.
The weather in Fairbanks can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 0°C (32°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The scenery of the town this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, spend time at the museums, and take in the beautiful scenery.
Spring Weather in Fairbanks
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 0°C (32°F) | 9 mm (0.4 in) |
| May | 10°C (50°F) | 16 mm (0.6 in) |
| June | 16°C (62°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Fairbanks
Nightlife
Most people don't associate Fairbanks with a lively nightlife scene. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.
Food: Fairbanks doesn't top the list for most foodies. 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.
Not As Romantic
For couples, this destination does not have a great vibe for romance compared to other places.
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Fairbanks might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Fairbanks here or see if Fairbanks is expensive here.
Related
What is Fairbanks most famous for?
Fairbanks is most famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights. People visit this impressive city for its great hiking. Also, it's known for museums and shopping. It is often described as outdoorsy, remote, Arctic, and unique.
What is the most famous sight in Fairbanks?
The most popular sight in Fairbanks is The Northern Lights. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Fairbanks on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Northern Lights and other attractions here.
How touristy is Fairbanks? Is it a popular city to visit?
Fairbanks is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Summer Mushing Cart Ride & Kennel Tour: $100
- 1-hr. Dog Sledding Tour in Fairbanks (without transportation): $135
- Small Group Northern Lights Tours In Interior Alaska From Fairbanks: $285
- Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience in North Pole: $99
- Guided Fairbanks Snowmobile Tour: $169
- Aurora Borealis Viewing and Ice Fishing Adventure: $229
- Northern Lights Aurora Tour with FREE Photography: $180
- Arctic Circle Winter Drive Adventure: $279
How long should I spend in Fairbanks?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Fairbanks is two to four days. Since Fairbanks has activities such as hiking, many visit for up to four days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Fairbanks? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Fairbanks?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.