What to do in Fairbanks, AK

Activities, attractions and tours

A tall clock tower with Roman numerals, surrounded by trees and a bridge.
A train on a mountain track surrounded by lush greenery and mountains.
A clear river flowing through a densely wooded area.
Dried fish hanging in a row.
A river with a bridge, a clock tower, and buildings in the background.

Fairbanks Tourist Attractions & Activities

You're ready to set sail in a new direction. Never one to shy away from an enlightening experience and imaginative ways to get your kicks, you're eager to explore new territory like the savvy traveller you are. Next stop: Fairbanks! It's not challenging to fill an itinerary, because Expedia Australia can connect you with lots of things to do. Reserve your activities today, and all that's left to do is pack your suitcase and start daydreaming.

  • Book your favourite excursion on Expedia Australia for significant savings, and you'll still have enough cash for a dream hotel or fine dinner while you're travelling. The things to do in Fairbanks are not only among the best, but they won't bust your budget. We have 57 things to do here, and you can get them starting at just AU$42.
  • Fairbanks is a favourite among thrillseekers suchlike yourself. In fact, a good percentage of travellers recommend the city's accommodation and have been visiting to dive into local culture and participate in the best activities. The most popular things to do can catch the attention of even experienced travellers, and one look at our inventory explains why. Our inventory includes an impressive range of history and thrills. From epicurean adventures to trips in the great outdoors, there are tons of opportunities to choose from when you review the inventory of activities here at Expedia Australia.

It takes an expert itinerary to fully explore Fairbanks, particularly when you long to include lots of local cuisine and entertainment. And we know you're itching to explore every avenue you're ready to get out and see what life is like for locals. You can't wait to scope out the top activities around, and a quiet day exploring local neighbourhoods is always time well spent. Our activities are the best way to organise your getaway. Book professional area tours on Expedia Australia, and you'll never get lost.

Activities

1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska

1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska

AU$447
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska
Chena River Guided Wilderness Adventure

Chena River Guided Wilderness Adventure

AU$272
per adult
Chena River Guided Wilderness Adventure
University of Alaska Museum of the North exterior in Fairbanks

Fairbanks City Highlights Tour

AU$224
per traveller
92% of travellers recommend
Fairbanks City Highlights Tour
See all activities in Fairbanks
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Chena Hot Springs

Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort and relax in the natural mineral water pools. This resort features a range of bathing options, including a man-made lake, an indoor family swimming pool and numerous hot tubs. The Chena Hot Springs also houses a spectacular ice museum with its own ice bar.
Learn more
An ice bar with illuminated sculptures and a chandelier.

2. Pioneer Park

Fairbanks’ Pioneer Park is an extensive outdoor complex alongside the Chena River and the birthplace of the city itself. Formerly known as Alaskaland, the 44-acre (109-hectare) park brings the state’s pioneering heritage to life through historical museums and exciting hands-on exhibits. Climb on board a 1930s riverboat, explore a hangar full of restored aircraft and learn about the gold rush that shaped the region.
Learn more
A historic film inside cabin with a red light arts sign, a lil' bird designs sign, and a The Last Will & Kettle sign.

3. Creamer's Field

Visit Creamer’s Field State Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, a bird sanctuary with viewing areas, wetlands and boreal forests. See a range of migratory birds, including northern pintail ducks, Canada geese and golden plovers. Take a guided walk through the sanctuary or participate in an educational event.
Learn more
The Northern Lights over a dark landscape with a silhouette of trees and a distant hill.

4. University of Alaska Museum of the North

Find out about Alaska’s people and places in the Museum of the North, a comprehensive museum dedicated to sharing the state’s stories. Explore galleries of ancient and contemporary art from the region, learn about the state’s gold-mining heritage and be awed by video presentations of the northern lights.
Learn more
A modern building with a curved facade, large glass windows, and two benches in front.

5. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is a spacious and contemporary showcase of some of the state’s most significant antique vehicles. Expertly selected for rarity, historical importance and industrial innovation, the automobiles in the museum’s collection have been beautifully restored and presented with historically accurate grandeur. Stroll around the museum’s showroom to see rare models and cherished classics, as well as a selection of vehicles you won’t see on display anywhere else.
Learn more
A museum exhibit of vintage cars.

Recommended things to do in Fairbanks

Number of things to do
57
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Road Trip through Alaska: AU$42
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Fairbanks

Stay near popular Fairbanks attractions

An ice bar with illuminated sculptures and a chandelier.

Chena Hot Springs

8.8/10 (666 reviews)
Soak in mineral-rich waters at Alaska's premier geothermal resort, where wilderness meets wellness. After dark, marvel at the northern lights or explore the year-round Aurora Ice Museum's crystalline sculptures.
See properties

Our guide on where to stay in Fairbanks

Find the best Fairbanks areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A modern architectural building with a curved facade and a glass entrance.

College

If you're spending some time in College, University of Alaska Museum of the North and Creamer's Field are top sights worth seeing.

A sculpture of antlers in an archway.
Photo by Geraldine Soh
Open Photo by Geraldine Soh

Downtown Fairbanks

If you're spending some time in Downtown Fairbanks, Fairbanks Ice Museum and Chena River are top sights worth seeing.

A forest path with birch trees and a bench.
Photo by Kathryn Reichert
Open Photo by Kathryn Reichert

Hamilton Acres

While Hamilton Acres isn't home to many top sights, Fort Wainwright and Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

A wooden treehouse with a rope bridge in a forest.
Photo by A Jaunt With Joy
Open Photo by A Jaunt With Joy

Westgate

Though Westgate may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pioneer Park and Carlson Center Event Arena.

Birch trees in a forest with sunlight filtering through.
Photo by Kathryn Reichert
Open Photo by Kathryn Reichert

South Fairbanks

When in South Fairbanks, you can plan a visit to Fort Wainwright and Fairbanks Ice Museum, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Fairbanks

A building with a Santa Claus mural, red and white trim, and a Christmas tree decoration.

North Pole

Frequently asked questions

Is Fairbanks worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are many interesting things to do in Fairbanks. Don't forget to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Fairbanks?
When you've checked off top attractions like Fairbanks Ice Museum and Creamer's Field, spend the rest of your day enjoying Fairbanks's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks Ice Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Fairbanks and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Fairbanks?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city sights, like Fairbanks Ice Museum, Creamer's Field and Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. The average stay in Fairbanks is three days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, North Pole isn't far away.
Is Fairbanks a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Fairbanks. Several key sights, like Fairbanks Ice Museum and Creamer's Field, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Fairbanks's neighbourhoods, College is 5 kilometres away from downtown, while Lemeta is 3 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Fairbanks with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all of your group, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Fairbanks with kids.

What to do in Fairbanks for adults?
Hoodoo Brewing Company and Large Animal Research Station are just a few of the things to do in Fairbanks. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Fairbanks?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Fairbanks is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia