When we think about Alaska we typically think of snow, cold and the great outdoors, but this isn’t all one of the most populous cities in the northers most state has to offer. Sure, snow falls more times than not and in every perfect picture of Fairbanks is associated with snow, but after spending a great deal of time there in the span of a year i’ll be the first to say that’s not all.
Fairbanks, Alaska has a great deal to offer with much of what you would expect, and so much more. From post card type views to the amazing wildlife, there’s plenty to entice everyone in the family. Before heading out, plan your trip to Fairbanks with an up-close and personal look at what should be on everyone’s next trip.
This review takes a much closer look at the Top 10 Things to do in Fairbanks Alaska.
10. Pioneer Park
This 44 acre city park is nestled in the heart of Fairbanks and offers plenty to do all four seasons. The park itself shows an appreciation for early Alaska history with plenty of events celebrating modern times. The park offers something for everyone including looking for recreation, and of course, just enjoying the great outdoors.
Visit Pioneer Park
9. Museum of the North
For arts, culture and history, a stop at the Museum of the North is a must. This museum is more than any other museum as it offers amazing exhibits, galleries and digital media. You’ll find a great deal of subjects on-site including aquatics, archaeology, Earth Sciences, Entomology, Mammalogy, Ornithology and much more. On-site there’s always K-12 teachers for those looking for an educational experience.
Visit Museum of North
8. Fairbanks Ice Museum
The Fairbanks Ice Museum offers plenty of unique handcrafted ice sculptures, light shows, slide presentation and a aura show nightly. The museum itself is only open during the summer months, but during February and March visitors can stop kids park which is an outdoor ice park and Ice Sculpture Exhibition. Admission is affordable and there are discounts for groups more than 10.
Visit Fairbanks Ice Museum
7. Creamers Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
For those wanting to get in touch with nature, the 7th spot in this review is for you. The Creamers Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge is made up of a 2200 bird sanctuary consisting of wetlands, forests and fields. The refuge itself houses, protects and improves the quality of life of for waterfowl, migratory birds and other wildlife. There are plenty of public places education, research and wildlife viewing.
Visit Creamers Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
6. Goldstream Dredge no 8
Once one of the most respected dredges in all of Alaska, the Goldstream Dredge no 8 was operated by the Fairbanks Exploration Company from 1928 – 1959. Located in the central part of Alaska between Fox and Fairbanks, the dredge tells a story all by itself of what gold mining used to be. The floating mechanical gold pan is a National Engineering Landmark that many people believe contributed to the birth of Fairbanks.
Visit Goldstream Dredge no 8
5. Alyeska Pipeline Visitor’s Center
If there’s one thing synonymous with Alaska other than snow, it’s oil. The Alyeska Pipeline is a museum highlighted by a pipe display above ground and shows off what took 8 billion dollars and 70,000 construction workers to build. See for yourself what harnesses more than 1 million dollars of black gold every hour which helps stimulate the economy of the entire country.
Visit Alyeska Pipeline Visitor’s Center
4. Georgeson Botanical Garden
This five acre botanical garden boasts a variety from education to programs showing off years of research of the subarctic horticulture. They offer both self-guided and guided tours giving you a bird’s eye view of the many types of flowers of various colors and sizes. The highlights are the guided tours as the guides are some of the most knowledgeable and engage with you making sure everyone’s entertained.
Visit Georgeson Botanical Garden
3. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
There’s only one place to go if you’re looking for resort style living with a touch of antique cars. The Fountainhead is home to over 70 historic cars and trucks and historical exhibits of the post-gold rush era. The museum itself has a collection of automobiles showcasing the many advancements of the automotive industry in the US.
Visit Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
2. Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
For an all-inclusive visitor’s top, the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center has it all. You’ll find all the information you need not just for Fairbanks, but all of Alaska. From world class Alaskan seasonal exhibits to guides and everything in between including music, festivals, arts and dance, this is the one stop that has it all.
Visit Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
1. Gold Daughters
Gold Daughters is a must-visit for those looking to make it rich, or at least the idea of it. On site there’s a mining museum rich in Alaskan history dating back to when the gold rush began in 1902. For someone wanting something more today, enjoy a gold panning tour giving you the full Alaska experience while getting the chance to score some real gold. Gold Daughters is seasonal, so be sure to check out there website below for more.