Fairbanks Things to Do

Essential for trade and supplies in Interior Alaska, Fairbanks was originally settled in the 1800s at the confluence of the Chena and Tanana rivers. Known as a hub for points farther north, Fairbanks is a city that bustles all year, even when winter temperatures plunge far below zero. An excellent way to begin exploring the town's rich history is on a Fairbanks Historical City Tour or private guided tour. Take a deeper look at the area's natural history, commerce, and cultural traditions through stops at local parks, museums, and the Trans-Alaska pipeline.

If your interest is piqued after a tour of the city, learn more about the gold mining industry on the Gold Dredge Number 8 tour that a begins aboard a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad's narrow-gauge train. It's guaranteed living history, as running commentary from the conductor provides both information and entertainment. All visitors receive a small bag of "pay dirt" to try their luck at gold panning.

A third unique tour takes you out on a Riverboat Discovery Cruise, a three-hour excursion on a stately sternwheeler paddling the Chena River. Enjoy an Alaska bush plane demonstration, an introduction to dog mushing, and a visit to an Athabascan village site.

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Some visitors wish to truly become immersed in Alaska's remote areas, and for this we recommend an Arctic Circle adventure by air or road. Whether you fly both ways or choose a fly/drive option, there is no doubt you'll spend the day both thrilled and awed by the challenges of life above 66 degrees north. Go a step further by traveling in winter. The northern lights make up for the cold!

Have all day? Embark upon a road trip like no other on the Chena Hot Springs and Ice Museum Tour. It begins with a 60-mile drive to Chena Hot Springs Resort and culminates in a two-hour soak in the mineral hot springs. Guests also visit the Aurora Ice Museum, the largest year-round ice environment in the world. It's chilly in there, but cozy parkas are provided.

As one of Alaska's centers for transportation, your arrival in Fairbanks is easy, thanks to an international airport and daily summer service by the Alaska Railroad. Independent motorists can also choose one of two highways for a longer, very scenic road trip up the Parks or Richardson Highways. Some guests choose Fairbanks as an arrival or departure point for a land tour prior to or after an Alaska cruise.

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