Fairbanks Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Fairbanks, Alaska - AK, USA)

Fairbanks offers a wealth of historic sites and attractions. With enthralling museums, hot springs, theme parks and above all, the magnificent aurora borealis northern lights, Fairbanks has more than enough tourist attractions to keep the most active travelers occupied for a week or more.

Riverboat Discovery

Address: Steamboat Landing, 1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks, Alaska AK, USA
Tel: +1 907 479 6673
A rare and unique opportunity to experience river life as it once was on the Chena and Tanana rivers, Riverboat Discovery operates an authentic Alaskan sternwheeler that takes you on a stunning 3.5 hour cruise of the river system around Fairbanks. Stop along the way at a traditional Native Alaskan village to observe the fascinating lifestyles of these hardy people, and visit some pioneer settlements. The tour also includes a delicious lunch.
Open hours: mid-May to mid-September
Admission: charge

Pioneer Park

Address: 2300 Airport Way / Peger Road, Fairbanks, Alaska AK, 99701, USA
Tel: +1 907 456 8579
Pioneer Park is Fairbanks' premier theme park and has numerous attractions with historic themes, as well as some modern entertainment. For real hands-on history, you can tour the mines, explore a native Alaskan village and board a riverboat, in addition to checking out the enthralling museum exhibits. When your brain is tired with all that information input, relax and enjoy the scenic Crooked Creek and Whiskey Island Railroad or play a round of mini-golf.
Open hours: year-round, Gold Rush Town and museums, daily - 11:00 to 21:00
Admission: free, additional cost for tours and activities

Aurora Borealis / Northern Lights

Tel: +1 907 474 7558 (Aurora Borealis forecast)
Without doubt Fairbanks' number one draw card, the spectacular aurora borealis can be seen in the night sky from September to May, but is most vivid from December to March when the sky is at its darkest. The lights are created by the Earth's magnetic field and their color, size and intensity are dependent upon atmospheric conditions. Colors can range from hues of green, yellow, orange, and, the rarest, red, while the patterns start off as vibrating wavy rays that begin twisting into spirals before disappearing. The aurora in the Fairbanks area can last anything from a few minutes to several hours, depending on conditions.
Open hours: September to May, best December to March
Admission: free

Chena Hot Springs

Address: Chena Hot Springs Road, Chena Hot Springs, Alaska AK, 99711, USA
Tel: +1 907 452 7867
Chena Hot Springs are located 60 miles / 97 km east of Fairbanks and are the closest of several hot spring areas surrounding the town. The spa is a full service resort and is open year round, offering a great warm winter haven for icy tourists. While the hot spring pools are the main attraction, there is also an ice museum, aurora viewing structure, winter dog sled rides and summer hiking trails.
Open hours: full service resort and spa pool, daily - 07:00 to midnight
Admission: charge