Fairbanks, Alaska’s third-largest city, acts as the hub for most of the transportation and commerce in the vast swath of land known as the Interior – and even farther north to the Arctic.
For millennia, Athabascan people have thrived within the harsh environment of this region, and the boundaries of Fairbanks are upon these ancestral lands. Harvesting the many plants, animals, and fish of the Tanana Valley’s rich resources has long been a way of life, far before the city known today as Fairbanks was founded by businessman E.T. Barnette in 1901.
Visitors to Fairbanks will enjoy a number of activities that showcase the history, cultures, and rugged landscapes of the Interior. Here are our favorite things about the Golden Heart City, as it’s known.
Fairbanks is a few hours north of Denali National Park, and a few hours south of the Arctic Circle boundary, so flying in or out of the city’s international airport makes sense for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
Aurora, baby! Fun fact: Fairbanks has more clear nights and easier access to good viewing locations but it can be much colder (Anchorage and Fairbanks are both excellent aurora destinations). Want to witness this aurora phenom? Plan on visiting between August and April and join our aurora team on a Fairbanks northern lights adventure. Prepare to be amazed!
Becoming familiar with the heritage of the Interior culture groups of the Tanana Valley and Interior areas means gaining new respect for the subsistence lifestyles and values of the Alaska Native People. Fairbanks has a number of museums and cultural centers to share with visitors to expand their knowledge.
From hiking where there are no trails to riding the runners of a dogsled, the Interior is chock full of interesting activities that embrace four seasons of recreation. Check out the local and state parks, and remote wildlife refuges, or take a flightseeing adventure into the Arctic. It’s all here.
During the summer months, Fairbanks is all daylight, all the time (mostly). Visit during the summer solstice in June and be treated to 24 hours of light and a celebratory atmosphere everywhere you go. Take advantage of the opportunity to watch a baseball game, go for a hike, or attend a festival – You can always sleep later!
Private Anchorage Sightseeing Tour
Get a perfect introduction to the greater Anchorage area on this 3-hour tour. Stops include Earthquake Park, Lake Hood Seaplane Base, Beluga Point, Potter's Marsh, and Flattop Mountain.
Private Turnagain Arm Summer Wildlife Tour
Travel the scenic Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm to Portage Valley. Take a scenic tram to the top of a mountain, cruise an iceberg dotted lake, view Alaska's iconic animals up close, or hike the many trails. The choice is yours!
Seward to Anchorage Cruise Transfer/Tour
Combine this amazing, full-day tour with a Kenai Fjords Cruise and Tour. Experience the best parts of the Seward Highway, scenic Turnagain Arm, and Anchorage with a local guide.
