Stay at a remote wilderness lodge. You may think of reindeer as flying creatures of the imagination, but here in Alaska they’re very real. The most popular things to do in Fairbanks with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are: InterContinental (IHG) Hotels in Fairbanks, Hotels with Complimentary Breakfast in Fairbanks, Hotels near University of Alaska (System), University of Alaska Museum of the North: Tickets & Tours, Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum: Tickets & Tours, Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center: Tickets & Tours, Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point: Tickets & Tours, Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge: Tickets & Tours, University of Alaska Fairbanks: Tickets & Tours, Chena River State Recreation Area: Tickets & Tours, BLM Arctic Circle Monument Sign: Tickets & Tours, Things to do near Bishops Jewelry Gallery, Things to do near Fairbanks Distilling Company, Things to do near Alaska Journey Tours in Fairbanks, Alaska, Things to do near Arctic Traveler's Gift Shop, Things to do near Fairbanks Intl Airport (FAI), Things to do near Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, Things to do near Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Conference Center, Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, See all attractions in Fairbanks on Tripadvisor, Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, See all outdoor activities in Fairbanks on Tripadvisor, Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks, Arctic Circle Aurora Fly Drive Adventure - Southbound, Alaskan Heritage and Sightseeing Tour in Fairbanks, See all day trips from Fairbanks on Tripadvisor, See all kid friendly things to do in Fairbanks on Tripadvisor. Located 1.5 hours east of Fairbanks, you can easily spend an entire day … If you’re in town for summer solstice, you can’t escape the daylight, or the massive Midnight Sun Festival, which boasts crowds up to 30,000. But this dog-mushing experience outside of Fairbanks is proof that there’s plenty more of Fairbanks to be seen at eye — or even paw — level. Recreational and competitive cross-country skiers alike are passionate about Birch Hill Recreation Area; a favorite among locals with its extensive and challenging trails that are always well-groomed, for both classical and skate skiers. This path was constructed to provide a place for hikers to view the plantlife around interior Alaska. Or opt for more modern winter transport, and book a thrilling snowmobile tour that puts you in the driver seat and exploring forests trails and frozen lakes. This 15-mile loop is well worth the moderate to strenuous hike. ...more, Nordic Skiing, Running, Disc Golf, & More. The very first thing you should do when you arrive in Fairbanks is head to … Find what to do today, this weekend or in January. A short or long day hike awaits at Angel Rocks, a scenic drive out Chena Hot Springs Road and within easy range of the rejuvenating waters that have drawn travelers for over a century. The hike follows an old mining trail that parallels the Susitna River to Snodgrass Lake. 2. It’s possible…. But all your time isn’t spent on the boat. It’s easy when the inky night sky comes alive with an amazing light show like the aurora borealis. ...more. The path stretches approximately 3.5 miles between Pioneer Park and Airport Way, with longer options available. Learn all about how 100,000 gold rushers fought the permafrost in their quest to get rich. Hop aboard a narrow-gauge train and get ready to stake your claim to gold on this two-hour tour of Gold Dredge 8. The best day trips from Fairbanks according to Tripadvisor travelers are: What are the most popular things to do in Fairbanks with kids? More than 80 cars showcase the evolution of the automobile from 1898 to 1936. You may also spot wildlife along the way. Plenty of people come to Fairbanks to look at the sky — for northern lights, or to bask in the midnight sun. For an authentic Alaskan experience with some of its most exuberant residents, come meet the Alaskan huskies at Cotter’s Sled Dog Kennel. This snowmobile tour in North Pole (just outside of Fairbanks) offers an unparalleled peek at Alaska’s interior and a serious thrill, whether you take a first-timer’s tour or embark on an overnight adventure. Wondering how folks up here deal with Alaska’s long winter days? Grapefruit Rocks is on the short list of favorite spots for local rock climbers, who make frequent weekend trips to these limestone formations and boulders standing 50 miles north of Fairbanks. Fairbanks Visitor’s Center. From top-rated visitor attractions, concerts and performances, art galleries, historic sites, Alaska Native culture, spectacular events and access to the Alaskan wilderness, Fairbanks and … Try your hand at gold panning, pet some sled dog puppies, and cheer for the BBQ cook-off contestants. Here you will find information on all events and attractions, and tour info, as well as brochures for self-guided tours. Seeing the Northern Lights is an unforgettable wintertime experience. University of Alaska Museum of the North 2,428 reviews "The museum is a fascinating and well curated trip through Alaska’s natural history, ethnography of its Native peoples, and more recent history from Russian settlers to the Gold Rush, and a candid look at WWII and..." Interior Alaska has abundant wildlife, with several viewing opportunities Fairbanks. Gold Daughters provides a fun, hands-on way to learn about Fairbanks’ gold rush history, and get a glimpse of the same thrill that brought so many people to Alaska in the first place. Several winter tours get you out in the snow and the crisp, refreshing air for an invigorating Alaska adventure. If you want a quiet explore of the woods on your own power, cross-country skiing is a popular local winter activity that is also a great workout. The Chena River winds through Fairbanks, creating opportunities for an easily-accessible stroll or paddle. ...more, Easily one of the most scenic drives in the Interior, the trip out to Table Top Mountain from Fairbanks winds deep into the center of White Mountains National Recreation Area, rising up hillsides and dipping down into valleys for a rolling picture show of spruce forest and snaking riverbeds. Just a short 15-minute drive from downtown Fairbanks, wait for the northern lights to appear in a warm, inviting space. Following dinner you’ll depart for a leisurely hour and a half-long float down the clear waters of the Chena River. One of the best trips near Fairbanks features incredible views, excellent walking, and easy logistics. Riding along in a dogsled is a fun way to experience the excitement that Alaska sled dogs bring to every excursion. Get up close and personal with these magnificent animals. To explore on your own, rent an SUV and travel the Dalton highway all the way north to Deadhorse/Prudhoe Bay, on the shores of the Arctic Ocean. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Things to do near Downtown Area Things to do near Bishops Jewelry Gallery Things to do near Fairbanks Distilling Company Things to do near Alaska Journey Tours in Fairbanks, Alaska Things to do near Aurora Pointe Things to do near Arctic Traveler's Gift Shop Things to do near Williams Resorts Overwhelmed by choices? Rent a car and travel independently on a set itinerary, with lodging and tours booked in advance. Arctic Outfitters rents reliable, stable vehicles that are specially equipped for remote travel. Chena Hot Springs. Fish for world-class-trophy pike during the summer or experience the fabulously unique sport of ice fishing in winter. Enjoy dinner at the Two Rivers Lodge, an establishment that has been serving Alaskans gourmet meals since the pioneer days. Fairbanks is one of the premiere destinations for seeing the Northern Lights, due to its location under the “Aurora Oval,” the zone over the far north with concentrated aurora activity. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. ...more, See the gorgeous Arctic via the rugged Dalton Highway, and go at your own pace when you rent from…. Experience the gorgeous, eerie northern lights on a full-day fly-drive adventure that leaves from Fairbanks and travels above the…, Stand out on the Arctic tundra under the northern lights, experiencing their eerie glow on a one-day tour you won’t soon forget. © Whitney McLaren. This is the site of the original airfield in Fairbanks, from which the first airplane to leave the ground in Alaska took flight in 1913. This top-rated visitor attraction at the University of Alaska Fairbanks boasts being the only research and teaching museum in Alaska. TIME TO SPEND The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is a great first stop to pick up maps and information on things to do in Fairbanks. Fly from Fairbanks into the Arctic, where you’ll land at Fort Yukon and learn the history of this fascinating…, Fly from Fairbanks and travel 80 miles above the across the Arctic Circle on a scenic and historic adventure. On a clear day the train will slow down to allow you to see beautiful vistas of Denali. There are all types of wildlife and small plants. Or soak in natural hot springs while viewing the northern lights at local favorite Chena Hot Springs Resort. Alaska Outdoors rents kayaks, canoes, and bicycles for half-days, a day, or by the week. One of the ways in which the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) distinguishes itself is through an institution-wide affinity…. ...more, This is the site of the original airfield in Fairbanks. This Dome is also a popular place to watch sunsets in the summer and fall, or to observe the northern lights in winter. Although the second largest city in Alaska, Fairbanks is never the less a small town with a friendly atmosphere. Then grab some gold of your own! The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is a good place to start. Explore the Fountainhead Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary or Creamer’s Field where more than 100 species of mammals and birds have been identified. ...more, On the north side of the park along the edge of the Chena River, sits Alaska Outdoor Rentals &…, On the north side of the park along the edge of the Chena River, sits Alaska Outdoor Rentals & Guides providing one of Fairbanks’ few, outdoor family adventure activities. Many of Rod’s team have completed the Iditarod or Yukon Quest, so you’ll get a deeper understanding of this unique sport. Or, you can fly or drive to remote Coldfoot, above the Arctic Circle, where crisp, clear weather makes for truly spectacular aurora displays. Your entrance fee provides you with a poke of paydirt with guaranteed gold and lets you pan all day. The best outdoor activities in Fairbanks according to Tripadvisor travellers are: Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge; Chena River State Recreation Area; Angel Rocks Trail; Large Animal Research Station; Georgeson Botanical Garden; See all outdoor activities in Fairbanks on Tripadvisor Construction was completed in 1987 and funded by donations from Fairbanks citizens, families, businesses, and associations. Feeling bold? Through the work of Festival Fairbanks, Inc. ’84 Director, William R. Wood, the Fairbanks City Council supported the creation of the Golden Heart Plaza. For a longer hike to end with a refreshing dip in natural hot springs, park at the same See Alaska's highlights by railroad or motorcoach in a group of up to 50, Travel in small groups, stay at exclusive wilderness lodges, and spend more time outdoors, All-inclusive multi-day vacation packages at a remote wilderness lodge, Travel with a professional photographer to the best photo locations around the state, Trips range from backpacking, rafting, to upscale remote lodge retreats, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. In addition, they outfits adventurers and hunters for wilderness, fly-in trips, they have a retail store for paddling gear, and they are the local dealer for Thule cargo… Bird lovers enjoy spotting sandhill cranes, tundra swans, kingfishers, owls, mallards and many more. With the midnight summer sun shining nearly 24 hours a day and the northern lights dancing overhead during Aurora Season, Fairbanks is simply bursting with things to do. Visit the Ice Museum, warm up as you soak in the all-natural hot springs, look for the northern lights dancing…. Wildlife sightings are always a possibility, particularly for birds and moose. The top attractions to visit in Fairbanks are: What are the best outdoor activities in Fairbanks? There is no shortage of things to do in Fairbanks. The most popular tour is the fly-and-drive excursion, which gives you incredible views from the air and a tour of the town of Coldfoot, followed by a drive back to Fairbanks. Dog teams were essential to wintertime travel in Alaska’s early days, and the mushing tradition is still strong. Downtown Fairbanks What to see and do in downtown Fairbanks! Learn about the influences that have shaped modern day Fairbanks, including its fascinating gold rush history, pioneering spirit and rich Alaska Native culture. Highlights plus less visited destinations. May through October, take a a trail ride with 16 dogs hitched up to an ATV. Please try again. Fly from Fairbanks across the Arctic Circle to a small Alaskan village and witness an ancient way of life. One of the best trips near Fairbanks features incredible views, excellent walking, and easy logistics. Learn about reindeer from the knowledgeable and passionate owners of Running Reindeer Ranch. Black Spruce Dog Sledding is based about 45 minutes from Fairbanks and offers tours from 1-3 hours long. And this unique tour gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent animals. Your entrance fee provides you with a poke of paydirt with guaranteed gold and lets you pan all day. Top Things to Do in Fairbanks, Alaska: See Tripadvisor's 63,559 traveller reviews and photos of 81 things to do when in Fairbanks. More than 100 species of birds and mammals call this wilderness home (sandhill cranes and mallards show up all summer), and there are miles of trails that meander through a variety of habitats. Finally, the UA Museum of the North offers natural/cultural galleries from 5 distinct regions of Alaska and Alaska’s largest public display of gold. Choose from a list of exciting excursions that caters to all types of adventurers. The best outdoor activities in Fairbanks according to Tripadvisor travelers are: Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge; Chena River State Recreation Area; Angel Rocks Trail; Large Animal Research Station; Georgeson Botanical Garden; See all outdoor activities in Fairbanks on Tripadvisor The Discovery II and Discovery III offer fully narrated three-and-a-half-hour tour. A one-hour tour gives you time to walk with, pet and take pictures with a small reindeer herd. You can fly, drive, or do a combination of the two, depending on your travel preference and how much time you have. This trail offers beautiful views of the Alaska Range and Denali (Mt. This trail provides views of tors, unusually shaped outcroppings that were formed 70 million to 90 million years ago when molten rock pushed upward and cooled before reaching the surface. Join Alaska Wildlife Guide in exploring one of Alaska’s most desired attractions, Chena Hot Springs Resort. The best option for a short day trip in this area is the 3.5‑mile loop that begins on even ground along the north fork of the Chena River and then sharply climbs up 900ft. Hot springs, riverboat, Arctic Circle tours, and more. There are many active mines along this hike and be sure to keep an eye out for grizzleys. Ice fishing is completely different than standing along the shore of a river – and it’s a lot of fun! Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. Car, train, or group tour. There was a problem with your submission. The site is a resort itself, complete with cabins set against a beautiful Alaskan backdrop. 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