Welcome to ‘Inside Alaska’ – the land between the mountains. Fairbanks sits within the heart of the state and is the jumping-off level for visiting the excessive Arctic. One of many few huge landlocked cities in Alaska, Fairbanks is commonly neglected because it’s not a cruise port. However that doesn’t imply that there usually are not loads of issues to do in Fairbanks year-round!
Fairbanks has been a essential hub in Alaska ever since its inception. It began as a gold rush outpost for the area after which developed right into a essential pipeline outpost throughout its development. Now it acts because the outpost of Alaska’s Inside.
I’ve been to Fairbanks 5 completely different occasions in summer season and winter. In truth, I really like Fairbanks a lot that I even run Ottsworld Excursions there! Palms down Fairbanks is one of the best place to actually get to know the hearty folks of the inside of Alaska. It’s additionally one of the best place to have an opportunity to see the aurora from September via April.
Residing on the sting of the Arctic Circle
With a inhabitants of 32,000, I used to be excited to go to Fairbanks and meet the individuals who reside on this excessive setting on the sting of the Arctic. You must embrace change if you happen to reside in Alaska; daylight adjustments drastically from day after day shedding 6 minutes of daylight (almost an hour each week!) because it heads in direction of December twenty first and positive aspects 6 minutes after that.
With the darkness comes the chilly and parking heaps with electrical shops at each spot. As a result of excessive chilly temperatures in Fairbanks through the winter, most autos are geared up with a number of electrical “heating” gadgets that facilitate beginning through the coldest time and must be plugged in to maintain heat.
“When it will get chilly, we simply get shut,” a neighborhood Fairbanks man informed me after I requested how he survived the winters.
However with the summer season comes the lengthy days and a inhabitants with an abundance of ‘cabin fever’. As I drove across the metropolis heart in the summertime I used to be impressed by the entire outside trails and actions. Folks in Fairbanks like to get exterior in the summertime and winter, and so do I.
What To Count on From This Fairbanks Checklist
There are a variety of operators to select from which can be properly established; nevertheless, in my travels, I prefer to give attention to the brand new, distinctive operators. They are typically the smaller, youthful corporations which can be serving the impartial traveler and offering a extra private contact than the bigger tour choices. If you happen to simply dig a bit bit, you will discover these smaller, particular person experiences that is likely to be tougher to get to or much more costly.
Fortunately although you don’t must dig – I’ve compiled all of those superior Fairbanks issues to do into this checklist. I’ve organized the issues to do in Fairbanks by summer season, winter, and each seasons. My purpose is that can assist you expertise a novel Alaska winter journey that takes you a bit off the vacationer observe and is extra built-in domestically.
Issues to do in Fairbanks within the Summer time
Fairbanks typically goes unnoticed by vacationers in the summertime, however after all, I used to be not going to miss this previous gold-mining city. Due to being introduced up within the Midwest, I’m at all times intrigued with cities and communities which can be landlocked and within the center, which can be overshadowed by their extra fashionable neighbors (ahem…Anchorage).
1. Fountainhead Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary & Trails
Simply exterior my resort was the Fountainhead Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary – a collection of trails winding via the boreal forest, good for operating and strolling. After spending every week within the treeless tundra round Nome I used to be excited to see timber once more after I received again to Fairbanks!
I bumped into many individuals taking their canine out for walks and birdwatching as I did a bit 3-mile run over wood bridges and across the lakes. The paths connect with the Creamer’s Area Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. That is one run the place I used to be comfortable I took my cellphone with me to take some photos alongside the way in which!
Extra Info: Fountainhead Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover out the place to go in Alaska for fall coloration
2. Tanana Valley Farmer’s Market
That is the oldest established farmers market in Alaska and the one one situated in its personal everlasting constructing. The Tanana Valley Farmers Market showcases all kinds of Alaska-grown produce, native Alaskan vegetation, and domestically made, Alaskan artwork and crafts.
Not solely can you purchase produce there, however it’s also possible to plan on having lunch…and you must go hungry! There was a shocking number of ethnic meals and I stuffed my face with Asian pork buns in addition to Mexican tacos.
I spent the remainder of my time trying round on the large produce and unusual veggies that I had by no means seen earlier than. Everybody was so pleasant and it was an effective way to spend a day studying extra in regards to the neighborhood.
Extra Info: Tanana Valley Farrmers Market Web site
The market is open from Might to September on Wednesdays and Saturdays
3. Georgeson Botanical Backyard
Be an novice botanist for the day as you wander round Georgeson Botanical Backyard in the hunt for uncommon, far-north vegetation. You’ll uncover uncommon species of flowers and timber which can be endemic to Alaska and learn the way they reside and thrive within the wild local weather of Alaska’s sub-Arctic inside.
This five-acre backyard is a part of the College of Alaska Fairbanks campus and was formally opened in 1989 as a analysis facility. It’s now a vibrant inexperienced house that’s stunning, particularly in spring and summer season.
Children will love the Babula Kids’s Backyard the place Alaska’s largest hedge maze beckons. Its well-designed pathways meander via lush greenery. Children can discover completely different sections named after beloved storybook characters like Peter Rabbit or Cinderella. Every space options plant species fastidiously chosen to replicate parts from these timeless tales – actually bringing tales to life!
Extra info: Georgeson Botanical Backyard
4. Tanana Valley Railroad Museum
All aboard! Prepare for a captivating journey via railroad historical past with a go to to this pleasant museum located inside Pioneer Park. Marvel at classic locomotives and discover mannequin prepare layouts depicting varied Alaskan landscapes.
Learn the way steam locomotives performed a necessary function in shaping Northern Alaska as you discover classic railcars stuffed with intriguing artifacts from yesteryear. You even take a experience on one of many park’s miniature trains!
Extra info: The Tanana Valley Railroad Museum is quickly closed
Plan an Alaska Railroad Hurricane Practice Tour
5. Gold Dredge 8
Fairbanks owes its existence to the gold fever that descended on the Tanana Valley. Gold Dredge 8 takes you again to the late nineteenth century when prospectors flocked to Alaska in the hunt for fortune. This large gold dredge, towering over the panorama, as soon as extracted hundreds of thousands of ounces of gold from the icy floor.
Now retired however meticulously preserved, it’s a nationwide monument the place you’ll be able to find out about Alaska’s mining heritage. It stands as a testomony to the unbelievable engineering and dedication of those that sought their desires throughout this historic interval.
Once you step onto Gold Dredge 8’s property, prepare for an immersive expertise. The educated guides right here will take you on a journey via time as they share fascinating tales and insights. You’ll be taught in regards to the dredging course of that revolutionized gold mining and witness firsthand how these behemoth machines operated. Plus – you’ll be able to even pan for gold as a part of your go to.
Extra info: Gold Dredge 8
Issues to do in Fairbanks Yr-Spherical
6. College of Alaska Museum of the North
As I pulled as much as the modern white constructing I used to be stunned to search out fashionable structure in a small neighborhood. And the shock didn’t cease there. The displays contained in the Alaska Museum of the North had been equally spectacular. There was a big Alaska pure historical past part that can totally educate you in regards to the grand state.
And upstairs was a formidable array of up to date and fashionable artwork executed by Alaskan artists. I cherished the upstairs displays as I’m a contemporary artwork buff. Lots of the works had an Alaska theme to them indirectly – however some had been additionally simply nice items that had nothing to do with the state.
And naturally, I couldn’t miss out on Otto the Bear, probably the most recognizable specimen on the College of Alaska Fairbanks Campus of the North. Otto is an 8′ 9” brown bear that has greeted friends for greater than 40 years. And sure – Ottsworld met Otto.
The museum has been engaged on restoring Bus 142 from the story Into the Wild for the previous few years. Hopefully, in 2024 it is going to be on exhibit for the general public to see and expertise. Take a look at the museum web site for updates on its standing.
Extra Info: College of Alaska Museum of the North
7. HooDoo Brewing Firm
I had been listening to good issues in regards to the Fairbanks craft brew scene, so I made a decision to test it out myself. After getting misplaced across the railroad tracks, I lastly got here throughout the massive industrial constructing that was HooDoo Brewing Firm. In true Alaska type – it was primary and rugged, not just like the craft breweries and bars in hipster neighborhoods that I’m used to. It was useful.
Go inside and order a HooDoo beer after which head again exterior to the picnic tables to take pleasure in your frosty brew. It didn’t take me lengthy to make buddies with some locals I shared the picnic desk with. HooDoo Brewing doesn’t have meals, as a substitute, they’ve varied meals vehicles that come every evening and park on the premises serving up meals to the hungry beer drinkers. I cherished the outside vibe; everybody absorbing the daylight and having fun with the outside and laid-back really feel.
Extra Info: HooDoo Brewery. Don’t miss Caturday at HooDoos on Saturdays when it turns right into a cat brewery!
8. Operating Reindeer Ranch
As I pulled into the driveway two huge balls of brown fur ran out in entrance of my automotive I hit the brakes in a panic. I let loose a sigh of reduction, it will have been fairly unhealthy if I had hit a reindeer as I entered the Operating Reindeer Ranch!
As reindeer roamed freely within the Operating Reindeer Ranch yard and across the automobiles the proprietor, Jane, greeted us and began filling our heads with fascinating reindeer details. I used to be there to not solely find out about reindeer however to additionally stroll with them via the forest – a novel Fairbanks exercise supplied year-round. Examine my whole reindeer expertise and the way I almost received myself run over.
My first go to to the ranch was in the summertime. There are few locations I am going again to a 2nd time as a result of there are simply so many locations to see on the earth that I’m not keen on do-overs. Nonetheless, as quickly as I knew I used to be going again to Fairbanks within the winter, I put Operating Reindeer Ranch on my must-see checklist…once more. I visited Jane’s distinctive reindeer expertise after I traveled via Fairbanks in the summertime just a few years again, however I used to be actually excited to see and stroll with the reindeer within the winter panorama.
My winter go to had some new surprises in retailer for me in comparison with my summer season go to. Along with the snow that was dolloped on the timber, there was one factor that was vastly completely different on this go to to the reindeer – the folks! Jane was nonetheless there giving the fascinating historical past of reindeer and the way she ended up being what I name the ‘reindeer whisperer’, however the sheer quantity of people that had been additionally there to see the reindeer stunned me. In the summertime after I got here there have been solely 3 of us. Nonetheless, within the winter there have been almost 18 of us! Fortunately there are many lovable reindeer to go round.
Take a stroll via the boreal forest together with the reindeer, get photos, and be taught in regards to the fascinating lives of those mild animals. It’s going to take you far past Christmas myths, and it’ll make you wish to come again for extra in different seasons!
The Operating Reindeer Ranch is situated close to the College of Fairbanks. It operates year-round aside from Christmas when the reindeer produce other ‘necessary’ work to do. E-book early because the tour has turn into fairly fashionable and infrequently fills up within the winter!
Extra info: Operating Reindeer Ranch Web site. Learn Operating Reindeer Ranch critiques on Journey Advisor
9. Morris Thompson Cultural Middle
Take a look at the Morris Thompson Cultural Middle and also you’ll shortly have a full Fairbanks itinerary deliberate! The power was created by the Fairbanks Conference & Guests Bureau, the Alaska Public Lands Info Middle, and the Tanana Chiefs Convention.
The Morris Thompson Cultural Middle goals to encourage residents and guests to get out and discover Inside Alaska and Arctic Alaska in addition to to protect Athabascan languages and keep on conventional information via Elder teachings. Right here it is possible for you to to search out all the knowledge you’ll want on your Fairbanks go to to Inside Alaska and Arctic Alaska.
Extra info: Morris Thompson Cultural Middle
10. Go to the Arctic Circle and Coldfoot Truck Cease – Day Journey
Fairbanks is the hopping-off level for the Arctic Circle, and the one approach to get to the Arctic Circle is to take one of many many Alaska bush flights or drive the Dalton Freeway; I did each! If in case you have time whilst you go to Fairbanks head north out of city the place the pavement ends and the freeway begins.
The Dalton Freeway follows the Alaskan pipeline from Fairbanks to Coldfoot Alaska (a halfway truck cease) and barely past. The freeway was constructed as a provide highway to assist the development of the pipeline in 1974. It’s a 414-mile highway (the vast majority of it dust) starting on the Elliott Freeway north of Fairbanks and ending at Deadhorse close to the Arctic Ocean. And it’s nonetheless used primarily at the side of the pipeline at present for upkeep crews, transport…and a bit little bit of…tourism.
You would possibly suppose that this opportunity to go to the Arctic Circle and drive the Dalton Freeway is simply accessible in the summertime – however you’re improper! You are able to do this tour within the winter too! I’ve truly executed it in the summertime and winter and cherished each journeys.
In the summertime, anticipate lots of daylight to discover. You’ll cease at some previous roadhouses, the Yukon River, the Arctic Circle, and Coldfoot. I truly stayed in Coldfoot for an evening and did extra exploring with a information mountaineering via the tundra and studying in regards to the historical past of this distinctive space earlier than flying in a bush airplane again to Fairbanks.
What to anticipate from flying in Alaska bush planes
You are able to do the identical form of journey within the winter with just a few additions. I flew as much as Coldfoot on an ideal winter day. It was spectacular to see the tundra from the airplane lined in snow. We had lunch in Coldfoot on the truck cease after which hopped within the van and began the lengthy and engaging drive again to Fairbanks.
We stopped to see the pipeline, do some sledding, and benefit from the Arctic Circle and the Yukon. Lastly – I selected to do an add-on expertise the place we stopped at a cabin about 90 minutes north of Fairbanks to look at for the aurora. As we had been within the van we might see the aurora beginning to seem and by the point we arrived on the cabin, it was in full swing.
This was among the finest aurora viewing nights I had in Fairbanks – the lights danced for hours. Plus – the cabin offered a beautiful place to heat up and have snacks in between aurora viewing! It was a really lengthy day as we didn’t get again to Fairbanks till 5 AM! Nevertheless it was soooo value it.
Extra Info for driving the Dalton Freeway
Northern Alaska Tour Firm – drive-up/fly-back variations in winter and summer season
Hire your Personal Automobile from Arctic Outfitters – gravel road-allowed vehicle leases for the Dalton Freeway traveler
Dalton Freeway Shuttle
Uncover the place to go in Alaska off the vacationer path
11. Aurora Ice Museum – Day Journey
Situated on the Chena Scorching Springs Resort about an hour from Fairbanks is Alaska’s coolest museum! By coolest I imply, actually the best. At a chilling 25 levels Fahrenheit, the Aurora Ice Museum lives as much as its title. It options the world’s largest year-round ice sculpture show. The sculptures within the museum are all created by Heather and Steve Brice who’re certainly very huge names in ice sculpting.
As you wander via the museum’s icy corridors, be ready to come across magnificent sculptures that appear nearly otherworldly. From life-sized animals to legendary creatures and complicated ice chandeliers, every creation is meticulously carved. Each nook reveals one thing new and astonishing – play an ice xylophone, crawl into an indoor igloo, or go to a frosted chapel!
Have a Drink on the Well-known Ice Bar
One of many highlights of the Aurora Ice Museum is its well-known “Ice Bar.” Step inside this frigid lounge space adorned with icy furnishings whereas having fun with your favourite beverage served in -10°F glasses made solely out of ice! It’s a very chilling expertise that can make your coronary heart race whereas preserving you refreshed on the similar time.
If you happen to’re fortunate sufficient to go to throughout winter months when Alaska’s well-known Northern Lights illuminate the sky, put together your self for an much more enchanting encounter. The museum’s location gives a perfect vantage level for witnessing nature’s most mesmerizing gentle present – dancing curtains of vibrant colours portray an indigo canvas above your head.
Extra info: Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Scorching Springs
12. Fountainhead Vintage Auto Museum
Calling all automotive fans! Go to the Fountainhead Vintage Auto Museum to delve into automotive historical past. This treasure trove showcases uncommon and superbly restored vehicles from as early as 1898. Uncover how autos have developed all through time whereas appreciating their intricate designs and craftsmanship. Don’t miss the horseless carriages and the cycle automobiles.
However wait…the Fountainhead Vintage Auto Museum is a lot greater than a automotive museum. The true attraction comes from the early fashions and the period clothes on show with every automotive. It homes many equipment that carry the Artwork Deco interval to life. The museum is situated on the grounds of the Wedgewood Resort.
Extra info: Fountainhead Vintage Auto Museum
13. Pioneer Park
Not your typical museum or guests heart per se, Pioneer Park is a dwelling testomony to Fairbanks’ previous. This attraction in Alaska was created for the Alaska ‘67 Centennial Exposition to commemorate the one-hundredth anniversary of the state’s buy from Russia. It showcases 5 family-friendly instructional and neighborhood points of interest.
Pioneer Park isn’t simply an peculiar park; it’s additionally house to a number of partaking museums that supply insights into Fairbanks’ cultural historical past. Nestled alongside the Chena River, this park recreates an early 1900s gold rush city with genuine log cabins reworked into quirky outlets and eateries.
Make a journey again in time on the Pioneer Air Museum the place you’ll be able to marvel at classic plane or hop aboard a reproduction paddlewheel riverboat at The Riverboat Nenana Museum for a scenic cruise. With its playground, carousel, and prepare that circles the perimeter, it’s simple to see how the park is a enjoyable, family-friendly day trip.
Extra info: Pioneer Park
14. Fairbanks Group Museum
Discover Fairbanks’ colourful previous at this charming neighborhood museum situated within the coronary heart of downtown Fairbanks. Hear tales about its pioneers, gold rush historical past, and the numerous function that the railroad performed in shaping this frontier metropolis. View fascinating displays on native industries like mining and canine mushing. Don’t overlook to take a look at their rotating displays which regularly spotlight native artists and neighborhood occasions. You’ll achieve a deeper understanding of how this vibrant metropolis got here to be.
Extra info: Fairbanks Group Museum
15. Alyeska Pipeline Customer Middle
Located alongside the long-lasting Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS), this distinctive attraction gives a captivating journey via the historical past, expertise, and environmental affect of one of many world’s largest pipeline programs. As you step into the guests heart, put together to be amazed by the sheer scale of TAPS. The pipeline stretches a formidable 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay on Alaska’s North Slope all the way in which to Valdez on its southern coast. It was in-built response to America’s rising demand for oil within the Seventies and has been working safely ever since.
The customer heart supplies a superb alternative to find out about how TAPS operates and its important function in transporting crude oil throughout this huge state. Partaking displays showcase varied points of pipeline development, upkeep, and security protocols. You’ll achieve insights into the intricate engineering strategies used to beat challenges similar to permafrost circumstances and wildlife conservation efforts carried out alongside its route.
Pipeline Alley
One spotlight of your go to will undoubtedly be exploring “Pipeline Alley.” This outside exhibit options an precise part of pipe permitting you to see up shut the way it capabilities. Marvel at its dimension and power whereas studying in regards to the modern measures taken to guard it from excessive climate circumstances like earthquakes and avalanches.
For these concerned with environmental stewardship, there are interactive shows that delve into Alyeska Pipeline Service Firm’s dedication to minimizing impacts on native ecosystems. Uncover their intensive monitoring applications aimed toward safeguarding wildlife habitats and guaranteeing clear waterways all through TAPS’ operation.
Extra info: Trans-Alaska Pipeline Viewpoint
16. Go to the Fairbanks Geophysical Institute
For these science-y folks – this can be a tremendous cool factor to do in Fairbanks. Go to the Geophysical Institute situated on the College of Alaska Fairbanks. Because it was established by an Act of Congress in 1946, scientists on the Geophysical Institute have studied geophysical processes from the middle of the Earth to the floor of the solar and past, turning knowledge and observations into info helpful for state, Arctic, and nationwide priorities.
World-class researchers examine every thing from the middle of the Earth to the middle of the Solar. Once I was researching a narrative in regards to the northern lights in Fairbanks, I truly was in a position to meet with among the scientists at GI and discuss to them about aurora on different planets.
Nonetheless, for the vacationer – it’s also possible to go to the institute and be taught extra about their analysis. They provide free public excursions in the summertime weekly on Wednesdays at 1 PM. If you happen to can’t make that point, they’ve self-guided excursions you are able to do. In addition they run excursions out at Poker Flat Analysis Vary. Poker Flat is the most important land-based rocket analysis vary on the earth and the one high-latitude rocket vary in the USA. Be a part of a tour to be taught in regards to the thrilling science that occurs on the vary and see among the services, together with the blockhouse complicated and the launch pads.
Extra Info: Geophysical Institute | Poker Flat Excursions
Take a look at the Fairbanks meals scene
Most individuals come to Fairbanks for journey – and there’s loads of that. Nonetheless one of many shocking issues about Fairbanks is the meals scene. For a city of 30,000 folks, I’m amazed on the ethnic variety and high quality of meals in Fairbanks. And it’s not all seafood and steak! These are all locations that I take my tour teams after I’m there.
17. Thai Meals in Fairbanks
The Thai Home Restaurant was the primary to carry Thai meals to Fairbanks, in 1989. Now there are over 20 Thai eating places within the comparatively small city of Fairbanks. It’s the Thai capital of Alaska! There was a migration of Thai folks into the Alaska inside for gold mining; when that didn’t pan out, many stayed needing a livelihood. Eating places adopted. I counsel you strive Thai Home and Bahn Thai – every thing is scrumptious – and genuine!
Extra info: Thai Home Restaurant
18. Strive Moldovan Meals at Soba
Sure – you learn that proper – there’s a Moldova restaurant in Fairbanks. I’m fairly positive my house in Denver doesn’t actually have a Moldova restaurant. Soba serves genuine Jap European meals and Moldovan wines. It’s the right hearty meals within the winter.
We tried the potato pierogies, pelmeni pork dumplings, cabbage wraps with rice and pork, beet soup, and don’t miss out on the bitter cherry crepes. It’s all so good!
Extra info: Soba Restaurant
19. The Crepery Restaurant
The Crepery is the place to be in downtown Fairbanks. It’s a well-liked cease for locals and vacationers. They serve up candy and savory crepes and it’s a favourite place of mine for lunch. Widespread fillings embrace Brie and pear, in addition to smoked salmon. Gluten-free variations can be found.
Extra info: The Crepery
20. Pump Home Restaurant
The Pump Home is one in every of my favourite upscale eating places in Fairbanks. The historic constructing alongside the Chena River was reconstructed within the spring of 1978 giving a nod to the 1890’s “Gold Rush” motif and ambiance. In all places you look you will notice relics from the wealthy and illustrious previous. In the summertime months, sit on the deck overlooking the historic Chena River and watch the Riverboat Discovery cross and the float planes land. The Pump Home serves extra conventional Alaskan honest similar to steaks and seafood. Count on huge parts and nice drinks too.
Extra info: The Pump Home
Fairbanks Alaska – Your House Base for Winter Enjoyable
Fairbanks is the place all of the Alaska winter enjoyable appears to occur. Not like summer season the place so many tour choices are about cruises, the winter in Alaska is in regards to the inside and survival.
Touring overland in summer season is a tricky course of; Alaska’s panorama is made up of lots of spongy tundra (permafrost covers half of Alaska) and there are few roads. However winter immediately makes every thing accessible. Rivers freeze and turn into highways to maneuver round on. The bottom hardens and immediately Alaska sled canine can take you anyplace.
Watch my winter adventures in Fairbanks under! Video by Michaela Potter
Alaska Winter Climate
I do know what you’re considering – it’s too chilly, there’s an excessive amount of snow, it’s too darkish. Nonetheless, if you’re going for a winter trip – don’t you need snow? And if you’re going to see the Northern Lights – don’t you need darkness?
You is likely to be stunned to search out out that the coastal areas don’t get as chilly as you suppose – they not often fall under 20F aside from the occasional storm. Up within the Arctic areas, they don’t get a lot snow as a result of it’s thought-about a desert.
Nonetheless, Alaska’s inside does get chilly and has a number of snow. There you might expertise temperatures dipping into the -20F vary and get a number of snow that can stick round all winter from October via March. All Alaskans know that you just fight winter climate with the fitting gear. If in case you have the fitting gear – you’ll be able to take pleasure in Alaska winter – even in Fairbanks!
I’ve traveled to some fairly chilly locations around the globe and have discovered some key gear that I tackle each winter journey. Take a look at my checklist of maximum winter gear I exploit
Month-to-month temperatures Coastal and Inside Alaska
See the present Alaska climate circumstances right here.
Alaska Winter Driving
Most of those locations I’ve talked about do require a rental automotive, but it surely’s value it to courageous the winter roads as a way to get out and have all of those great experiences. It’s simple to lease a automotive on the Fairbanks airport. I used Avis, however there are a variety of choices.
I might completely get an all-wheel drive automobile although as it’s mandatory and there have been just a few occasions after I was driving via lots of snow on not-so-well-plowed again nation roads!
Do observe that Fairbanks and the encompassing space don’t use salt on their roads, however that doesn’t appear to hassle the locals a lot and I used to be in a position to get round positive.
Plus if you happen to go to Alaska within the winter, you get launched to the distinctive Alaska winter tradition of plugging in your automotive at evening! Sure, that’s proper, your rental automotive will include an electrical chord that you need to use to plug in your automotive in all places you go and hold the engine block from freezing.
Extra info: Fairbanks Rental Vehicles
Issues to do in Fairbanks within the Winter
Whereas Alaska is a well-liked dream vacation spot in the summertime, it will get little respect within the winter. The worry of frigid temperatures, lack of sunshine, and heavy snow scare off most individuals. Nonetheless, that’s the precise cause why I believed Fairbanks can be the right place to go for an Alaska winter journey – I needed to see how the hearty Alaskans lived and performed within the low season.
Plus you get a few bonuses to the Fairbanks winter, like Northern Lights and cheaper costs. My airfare from Denver to Fairbanks was solely a mere fraction of summer season costs, and fairly a bit lower than different hearty additional flung Scandinavian winter locations.
And whereas a Fairbanks Northern Lights journey might have introduced you to this lesser-known a part of Alaska, there are many different issues to do which makes Fairbanks the right spot for an Alaska winter journey trip!
21. Ice Fishing
Fairbanks is a winter wonderland for ice-fishing fans! If you happen to’re trying to expertise the fun of catching fish via a frozen lake’s icy floor, look no additional than this unbelievable vacation spot. Nestled amidst scenic landscapes and frigid temperatures, this charming metropolis gives an exhilarating expertise for each novice and seasoned anglers alike.
Fairbanks is famend for its beautiful frozen lakes and rivers that remodel right into a winter playground for ice-fishing fans. With over 100 lakes inside a 50-mile radius, you’ll have limitless alternatives to discover new spots and discover that good catch. The area boasts quite a few lakes teeming with varied fish species similar to Arctic char, northern pike, rainbow trout, and burbot.
Rods Alaskan Information Service gives a ton of various winter tous within the space and that features ice fishing. Don’t fear about getting chilly – you fish from inside a heat little hut/cabin on the ice. If you happen to go along with a information – you’ll have every thing you want, gear and a heat place to attend for the fish to chunk! They even provide an aurora tour additionally – so you’ll be able to snag that Arctic Char beneath the northern lights!
Extra info: Rods Alaskan Information Service
22. Canine Mushing
Expertise Alaska’s primary winter sport – canine sledding. Any Alaska winter journey wants to incorporate some canine mushing! Fairbanks, with its beautiful landscapes and frigid local weather, gives an ideal setting for this conventional mode of transportation.
Canine mushing has been an integral a part of Alaskan historical past and tradition for hundreds of years. Initially used as a way of transportation by indigenous peoples, at present it has developed into a well-liked leisure sport and vacationer attraction. In Fairbanks, the place winters are lengthy and snow is considerable, canine mushing stays deeply ingrained in native traditions.
The true stars of canine sledding are undoubtedly the unbelievable sled canine themselves. These extremely educated canine athletes possess outstanding endurance and power. Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Alaskan Huskies are generally discovered breeds in sled canine groups as a result of their distinctive cold-weather adaptability.
Fairbanks boasts an in depth community of well-groomed trails that wind via breathtaking forests and frozen landscapes. Whether or not you’re a newbie or an skilled adventurer, there are alternatives accessible for all ability ranges. From shorter introductory rides to multi-day expeditions throughout distant territories similar to Denali Nationwide Park – there’s one thing for everybody!
Go to Mushing Faculty and discover ways to function a canine sledding crew
There are such a lot of decisions and kinds to select from round Fairbanks for canine mushing. Nonetheless, I used to be searching for a extra hands-on expertise as I needed to be taught extra about tips on how to mush my very own crew. Discover Fairbanks advisable I take a look at a brand new, younger operation in Two Rivers, The Final Frontier Mushing Co-op.
Not solely did I discover ways to mush your individual crew in a half-day ‘mushing faculty’ tour, however I additionally realized a wealth of details about the canine racing tradition of Alaska and what it takes to run a racing kennel. The younger homeowners of the Co-op all have severe backgrounds in racing and due to that, they wish to provide guests an actual immersive expertise at their sled canine kennels. Their purpose is to have folks see how a lot the canine love their job and expertise the actual Alaska.
However I need to warn you, when you discover ways to mush your individual crew of canine, you’ll by no means wish to return to easily using in a canine sled once more. I used to be bitten by the canine sledding Alaska bug and might’t wait to return once more!
Extra info: Final Frontier Mushing Co-op. Situated simply half-hour exterior of Fairbanks, the Co-op gives day excursions, expedition-style excursions, and aurora excursions! Examine and see my mushing faculty expertise.
23. Winter Heat-Up at Chena Scorching Springs – Day Journey
Some of the fashionable stops round Fairbanks is a visit to Chena Scorching Springs. Simply hop on the Chena Scorching Springs highway and drive it till the top – about an hour from Fairbanks. You’ll arrive at a heat and toasty Alaskan winter wonderland.
It is a larger vacationer operation than the others I discussed above, nevertheless, it’s value a cease – particularly within the winter! It’s not simply in regards to the sizzling springs, the resort additionally gives snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and canine sledding.
I like to recommend merely making this a day journey because the lodging choices aren’t that nice except you get a cabin.
Nonetheless, we booked a bit cabin set away from different housing and loved our heat cozy spot whereas the snow fell exterior. After an enormous hike, we went for a soak within the sizzling springs at evening. The wind was blustery and the snow was flying whereas we had a surreal expertise floating across the many artifical sizzling spring swimming pools within the night. It was simply what our sore legs wanted! Sadly the gorgeous snowfall ruined our possibilities to see aurora there, but it surely’s an incredible spot to situate your self to see the aurora!
Extra info: Chena Scorching Springs Resort. Spend an evening or two off-grid on this idyllic spot and spring! Learn critiques of Chena Scorching Springs on Journey Advisor.
24. View the Northern Lights
Fairbanks is likely one of the prime spots on Earth for witnessing the breathtaking spectacle often called the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. It’s actually a paradise for aurora borealis hunters; nevertheless, catching sight of these elusive inexperienced waves dancing throughout the sky isn’t only a piece of cake. Plan your go to between September and April when nights are longer and darker – good circumstances for recognizing these shimmering Northern Lights.
Location issues! To maximise your possibilities of recognizing the Northern Lights, escape from the town lights. Head out to distant areas away from gentle air pollution or get cozy at one in every of Fairbanks’ charming lodges the place you’ll be able to stare upon stars with none interference. Keep in mind: It’s all about discovering that candy spot the place darkness reigns supreme.
Additionally, remember the fact that one of many the reason why Fairbanks (the inside) is such an incredible place to view the northern lights is as a result of it’s inland and normally has clear skies. Not like the coastal areas and nations like Iceland.
On the subject of witnessing the celestial Aurora Borealis portray its means throughout Alaska’s skies, persistence is vital — except you’ve been blessed by some form of cosmic cheat code! Generally the Northern Lights seem early; generally they make you wait.
Have an Alaska Aurora Expertise at Aurora Bear
Frank and Miriam will gladly welcome you into their house and Alaska lifestyle on their off-grid house an hour north of Fairbanks. They provide nightly Northern Lights excursions and pictures instruction. They solely tackle small teams to allow them to present an intimate stage of service since they’re internet hosting you of their house. They’re located completely for Northern Lights viewing north of Fairbanks beneath the aurora oval and amongst a backdrop of gorgeous forest.
As well as, they share their fascinating perspective on Alaska since they each got here from Germany not too long ago and determined to make this their new house. They fell in love with the Alaskan wilderness and have embraced it as their new house.
All of us grew to become quick buddies and even got here again out to satisfy them for a day of snowshoeing earlier than we departed! Their hospitality was phenomenal to not point out their darn cute canine you’ll fall in love with. Aurora Bear is by far my favourite place to attend and look ahead to Northern Lights. It’s also the place I take my Ottsworld Tour Group!
Extra info: Watch the aurora or discover ways to {photograph} it at Aurora Bear. Learn critiques of Aurora Bear on TripAdvisor.
25. Go to Denali and experience the Winter Aurora Practice – Day Journey
Most individuals suppose that Denali Nationwide Park is simply open in the summertime, but it surely’s truly open year-round! Winter is a superb time to go to Denali Nationwide Park because the crowds have all left, and also you’ll discover that you’ve got the place to your self! Cease in on the customer heart and ask to ‘borrow’ some snow footwear and poles, and also you’ll be capable of tackle among the winter trails.
Denali is a couple of 2-hour drive south of Fairbanks, however if you would like an actual distinctive journey take the Denali in a Day Alaska winter prepare journey the place you’re pushed all the way down to Denali (with just a few scenic stops alongside the way in which), snowshoe within the nationwide park there, after which hop on the northbound Aurora Winter Practice and slowly come again to Fairbanks by way of the Alaska Railroad!
At the present time tour means that you can go to Denali Nationwide Park, and experience the winter prepare all utilizing Fairbanks as your hub! Examine my winter prepare expertise right here.
Extra info: Denali in a Day on the AKRR Web site
All aboard the Alaska Railroad: See the final frontier by prepare
26. Snowshoeing Nature Walks
A lot of locations in Fairbanks provide snowshoeing excursions within the winter. However if you happen to actually wish to get out and respect the outside, be taught in regards to the winter natural world, and the ecosystem of life amongst all of the snow – then you definately wish to take a look at Leaf Out Excursions.
It is a native small operator that I exploit on my Ottsworld Alaska winter excursions. I like to assist small companies after I journey, so after I met Shannon from Leaf Out a nature information operating her personal little guiding enterprise I used to be fairly excited. She took me out round her cabin to go snowshoeing within the woods. She’s a naturalist and the snowshoe hike was extra like an interactive classroom – I realized SO MUCH. I performed “Guess that Skat”, realized about studying animal tracks within the snow and understanding which means they had been strolling, and realized that squirrels are messy eaters!
If you’re touring independently round Fairbanks – you’ll want to search for Leaf Out and meet Shannon for a hike or snowshoe – she’s a wealth of information and a type of superior bad-ass Alaska ladies.
Extra Info: Leaf Out Nature Guides
27. Go to the Fairbanks Curling Membership
We’ve all seen it through the Winter Olympics – the unusual and overseas sport of curling. I’m at all times intrigued by issues which can be particular to a area – and the game of curling is certainly particular to the far north. The Fairbanks Curling Membership is proud to be the oldest organized sports activities group in Alaska. If you happen to go to Fairbanks within the winter and surprise, “What do the locals do throughout these lengthy, chilly winters”, simply head to the curling membership and also you’ll get your reply.
There’s league play virtually each evening within the winter – so why not head to the Fairbanks Curling Membership, sit up within the viewing space, seize a beer (sure – there’s at all times a bar), and watch the locals play on this fascinating sport! Plus – there will probably be loads of different native spectators there to reply your many questions on the game.
As well as, there are some alternatives to get hands-on and discover ways to curl your self! I’ve this as an exercise in my Ottsworld Alaska winter tour and it’s at all times a spotlight. Or you’ll be able to at all times go to the Fairbanks Curling Membership web site and ask about newbie programs!
Extra Info: Fairbanks Curling Membership
28. Fairbanks Ice Carving
Fairbanks is house to the World Ice Carving Championship. Every February one of the best ice sculptors on the earth compete. So after all, if you’re visiting through the championship – you must undoubtedly head to the Ice Park and test it out and see the artists in motion.
Even after the competitors is over – the ice sculptures stay on show and you’ll stroll via and consider them for the rest of the winter…or till they soften! It does require a ticket to get in – but it surely’s value it to see these distinctive artworks. It’s significantly stunning at evening when the sculptures are lit up and appear to glow.
As well as, you’ll be able to be taught extra about Alaska ice carving on the Fairbanks Ice Museum. This museum is open year-round and can take you thru the historical past of carving and the competitions. As well as – in the summertime they provide lessons so you’ll be able to discover ways to carve your individual ice artwork!
Extra Info: Fairbanks Ice Museum | Ice Alaska – Ice Carving Championship and Ice Park
29. Snow Machining
Whereas in Fairbanks, be sure you attempt to journey across the Alaska wilderness like a neighborhood – on a snow machine! We name them snowmobiles within the decrease 48, however if you wish to slot in whereas touring in Alaska – you higher name it a snow machine!
There are a variety of locations the place you’ll be able to e-book a tour – from just a few hours to a snowmobile multi-day tour. If you wish to simply get your ft moist and see what it’s like, then take a look at Rod’s Alaskan Information Service. They provide a lot of completely different excursions and you’ll mix them with issues like ice fishing or canine sledding.
I did a half-day tour with them and I used to be actually impressed with the standard of their gear and the extent of instruction. They may present the entire heat winter gear you want together with boots and gloves. The snowmobiles are additionally in actually nice situation. I additionally cherished that they gave you time by yourself to only zip across the lake and have a look by your self with out having to at all times observe the group!
Extra Info: Rod’s Alaskan Information Service Snowmobiling Excursions
Now you’re all set to expertise winter and summer season adventures in and outdoors of Fairbanks!
The place to remain in Fairbanks
Springhill Suites
It is a very nice resort situated in Downtown. It’s an ideal location to have the ability to stroll to all of these nice ethnic eating places, and bars, get presents, and the Ice Museum. Plus, it’s near the river and you are able to do a lot of good walks across the river.
Verify costs and availability for the Springhill Suites Downtown | Learn critiques for the Springhill Suites on TripAdvisor | Seek for different motels in Fairbanks
Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
Situated on the banks of the Chena River – this huge lodge is a superb location for the airport and the prepare station. It has a beautiful restaurant related to it and within the winter they even have some particular aurora viewing areas arrange the place you’ll be able to hold heat whereas ready. There’s at all times lots of hustle and bustle at this lodge!
Verify costs and availability for Pike’s Waterfront Lodge | Learn critiques for Pike’s Waterfront Lodge on TripAdvisor | Seek for different motels in Fairbanks
Bear Lodge at Wedgewood
That is additionally a reasonably large resort typically utilized by cruise corporations in the summertime. The resort is good and it’s situated by many issues on this checklist – like Creamers Area, Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary and Trails, and the Vintage Automotive Museum.
Verify costs and availability for Bear Lodge at Wedgewood | Learn critiques for Bear Lodge at Wedgewood on TripAdvisor | Seek for different motels in Fairbanks
Lodging exterior of Fairbanks
If you wish to get actually off the overwhelmed path, then go spend an evening exterior of Fairbanks on the Lodge at Black Rapids.
Lodge at Black Rapids – a Trendy-Day Roadhouse
A 2 hour drive south of Fairbanks you’ll go deep into the Alaskan wilderness and historical past on the Lodge at Black Rapids. This spectacular lodge made from slate and timber was made by hand by homeowners Annie and Mike Hopper.
It took them 10 years to construct it! Now it sits completely perched on a hill overlooking the Black Rapids Glacier located on Richardson Freeway, what was once the previous most important freeway between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Nonetheless, now for the reason that new Parks Freeway has been constructed, this route via the Jap Alaska Vary has turn into the highway much less traveled and is seldom seen by vacationers.
Uncover all of the issues to do in Anchorage in Summer time or Winter
As well as, this route was additionally house to historic roadhouses that had been constructed to serve vacationers again in 1904 touring the Valdez-Fairbanks path. In truth, Annie has a ‘labor of affection’ venture at present restoring the previous Black Rapids roadhouse that sits just under the brand new lodge.
Black Rapids Lodge is form of like a modern-day roadhouse; a spot to cease, get a heat meal, a snug mattress, and native hospitality. However in contrast to conventional roadhouses, you’ll wish to keep some time as a result of Annie and Michael have an unbelievable checklist of out of doors winter adventures so that you can pattern.
Among the best actions they provide is a snowshoeing journey to a close-by ice cave. Black Rapids equipped the entire gear and are comfortable to lend further heat climate gear if you happen to want it. You are able to do these hikes or snowboarding independently or rent a neighborhood information by way of Black Rapids.
The rugged luxurious lodge is simply the way you wish to spend your winter in Alaska; having fun with the outside after which having a heat, comfy place to come back ‘house’ to with a bit pampering. It’s a spot the place you’ll really feel instantly at house.
Keep at The Lodge at Black Rapids for a weekend and have a number of adventures! Learn critiques for The Lodge at Black Rapids on TripAdvisor
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