What to See and Do in Fairbanks, Alaska

Local History & Cultural Experiences

• Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center
  Located downtown near the river, this cultural center provides an excellent overview of Fairbanks and the surrounding areas. It’s free to enter and offers a wealth of knowledge beyond what’s covered here.
  📍 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701
  📞 907-459-3700

• Museum of the North
  Admission: $18 per person
  This museum showcases Fairbanks’ history along with extensive Alaskan Native exhibits. You’ll find taxidermy animals, whale bones, and artifacts unique to Alaska.
  📍 1962 Yukon Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775
  📞 907-474-7505

• Pioneer Park
  Free entry
  Located off Airport Way, this park is a hub of summer activities and serves as a venue in the winter. It features historic cabins from the early 1900s, a preserved Gold Rush-era church, museums, and attractions for visitors of all ages.
  📍 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99701
  📞 907-459-1087

• Fairbanks Ice Museum
  A must-visit for those from warmer climates, this museum features impressive ice sculptures and interactive exhibits. It’s located downtown, near the popular Fudge Pot—worth a stop for sweet treats!
  📍 500 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701
  📞 907-451-8222

• Running Reindeer Ranch
  This unique ranch offers interactive tours where you can walk among reindeer in a peaceful forest setting. The owner is highly dedicated to the well-being of the animals, making for an educational and fun experience.
  📍 1470 Ivans Alley, Fairbanks, AK 99709
  📞 907-455-4998

Nature, Relaxation & Iconic Sights

• Chena Hot Springs Resort
  A highly recommended stop, this natural hot spring features an outdoor pool perfect for relaxation. In winter, enjoy the surreal experience of soaking while your hair freezes! The resort also offers lodging, an ice museum, and Northern Lights tours.
  📍 56.5 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712
  📞 907-451-8104

• Trans-Alaska Pipeline Viewing Station
  Built in the 1970s, this massive pipeline stretches across Alaska. A dedicated viewing area just outside town lets you walk under and around this impressive feat of engineering.
  📍 1671 Steese Hwy, Fairbanks, AK 99712

• Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
  A peaceful nature preserve with boardwalk trails and open fields. Popular for birdwatching, photography, and wildlife viewing in all seasons.
  📍 1300 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701
  📞 907-452-5162

• Georgeson Botanical Garden
  Explore flowering gardens and educational displays during the growing season. A hidden gem located on the UAF campus.
  📍 117 W Tanana Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775
  📞 907-474-7222

Seasonal Activities

Summer Fun

• Riverboat Discovery Cruise
  A popular family-friendly paddlewheel tour along the Chena River with bush pilot demos, native village visits, and dog mushing stops.
  📍 1975 Discovery Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709
  📞 800-829-8044

• Gold Dredge 8
  Ride a narrow-gauge train to a mining site where you’ll learn Fairbanks’ gold rush history, see giant machinery, and pan for real gold.
  📍 1803 Old Steese Hwy N, Fairbanks, AK 99712
  📞 866-479-6673

Winter Adventures

• Dog Sledding – Tour companies like Paws for Adventure and Arctic Dog Adventure Co. offer rides through snowy forests with happy huskies.

• Ice Sculptures – Visit the World Ice Art Championships or downtown displays during winter months.

• Skiing & Snowmobiling – Try Birch Hill, Moose Mountain, or Chena Lakes. Equipment rentals and guides are available.

See the Northern Lights

• Aurora Viewing in Fairbanks
  Fairbanks is one of the world’s best places to see the aurora borealis from August to April. Drive to dark-sky locations like Murphy Dome, Cleary Summit, or stay at aurora-focused lodges with wake-up calls and glass igloos.

Fairbanks is packed with unique experiences no matter the season. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone!