When I first touched down in Fairbanks, I could feel it—this wasn’t your typical Alaskan escape. Nestled under the dancing sky of the aurora borealis and surrounded by wild Arctic landscapes, Fairbanks offered something raw, real, and surprisingly cozy. I came for the northern lights and hot springs, but left with memories of midnight sun hikes, friendly huskies, and quiet conversations in ice bars.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do in Fairbanks, based on my own experience. Whether you’re chasing winter magic or soaking in summer sunshine, this city has a charm that unfolds slowly—and beautifully.
Soak in Chena Hot Springs
One of my first stops—and honestly one of my favorites—was Chena Hot Springs. After a long day of exploring, slipping into naturally heated, mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow was everything I didn’t know I needed. If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the contrast of steaming water against falling snowflakes. Bonus: The resort also has an ice museum where you can sip appletinis in an icy martini glass.
Tip: Stay the night for a better chance of seeing the aurora overhead while you float.
Hunt for the Northern Lights
Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, and I made it my mission to catch them. I joined a local aurora tour with a heated yurt and warm drinks, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a car and drive to Cleary Summit or Murphy Dome.
Best viewing months: Late August to April
Conditions: Clear, dark skies away from city lights
There’s something humbling about watching the sky shift from inky black to green, purple, and pink. It was worth every freezing second.
Explore Pioneer Park
On a slower afternoon, I wandered through Pioneer Park, a quirky heritage park that mixes Gold Rush history with a dose of Alaskan kitsch. There’s a vintage carousel, museums, cabins from the early 1900s, and food stalls where I tried reindeer sausage (it’s actually really good).
Good for: Families, history lovers, and anyone needing a chill break from outdoor adventures.
Visit the Museum of the North
This museum, located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, surprised me with how modern and fascinating it was. The art and history exhibits dive deep into Alaskan culture, wildlife, and geology. I especially loved the room with aurora footage and the section on Arctic adaptation—it made me appreciate the region even more.
Try Dog Sledding (Mushing!)
Riding through the snowy wilderness behind a team of excited huskies was easily one of the most exhilarating experiences I had. I visited a local kennel that lets you meet the dogs, learn about mushing culture, and even drive your own sled for part of the ride.
Best time: November to March
Gear up: It gets cold fast—thermal layers are a must.
Take a Day Trip to the Arctic Circle
If you’ve ever wanted to cross the Arctic Circle, this is the place to do it. I booked a small-group tour that drove up the Dalton Highway (yep, the one from Ice Road Truckers) and learned about tundra ecology, pipeline systems, and native life in Alaska’s interior.
It’s a long day—expect 12 to 15 hours—but the landscapes are unforgettable.
See Reindeer Up Close
I didn’t expect to fall in love with reindeer, but here we are. I visited Running Reindeer Ranch, where I got to walk alongside a small herd through a snowy birch forest. The hosts were passionate and knowledgeable, and the reindeer? Surprisingly affectionate.
This was one of those unexpectedly wholesome moments that made my trip so memorable.
Experience Midnight Sun or Polar Night
Depending on when you visit, Fairbanks either never sleeps or never sees the sun. I visited in late summer, and hiking under a midnight sun felt surreal. In winter, the opposite happens—short days, long nights, and even better chances for aurora hunting.
Wander Downtown Fairbanks
Downtown isn’t huge, but it’s home to some cozy coffee shops, bookstores, and local art galleries. I picked up hand-carved earrings and wild blueberry jam from a local market and chatted with artists about life in the interior. For coffee lovers, Venue and River City Café were my go-to spots to warm up.
Take a Riverboat Tour
In summer, hop aboard the Riverboat Discovery for a scenic cruise along the Chena River. You’ll stop at a recreated Athabascan village, see a bush pilot demo, and learn about river life. It’s touristy, yes, but also educational and beautifully done.
Tips for Visiting Fairbanks
- Dress in layers: The weather can be unpredictable year-round. Even in summer, nights can get chilly.
- Rent a car: Especially in winter, having your own vehicle gives you more flexibility for chasing the lights or visiting hot springs.
- Budget for experiences: Tours can be pricey, but they’re often worth it—especially for things like aurora photography or Arctic Circle drives.
Conclusion
Fairbanks is not flashy or overbuilt—it’s quiet, soulful, and deeply connected to its natural surroundings. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, mushing through snow, or just standing in awe under the northern lights, it leaves a mark. I didn’t just visit Alaska—I felt it.
If you’re planning your own trip to the Last Frontier, I hope this guide helps you discover the best things to do in Fairbanks in a way that feels both adventurous and meaningful.
Planning your Alaska dream trip?
Check out my guide to the best places to stay in Fairbanks or explore my full Alaska itinerary here.
FAQs About Fairbanks
What is Fairbanks best known for?
Fairbanks is famous for aurora viewing, Chena Hot Springs, and its location near the Arctic Circle.
When is the best time to visit Fairbanks?
Winter (November to March) for northern lights and dog sledding, summer (June to August) for the midnight sun and outdoor activities.
Can you see the northern lights in Fairbanks?
Yes! It’s one of the top aurora viewing destinations in the world. Your best chance is on clear nights between August and April.
Do I need a car in Fairbanks?
A car is highly recommended, especially in winter, to explore attractions outside the city center.
Is Fairbanks family-friendly?
Yes, with kid-friendly stops like Pioneer Park, river cruises, and reindeer ranches.
