Even if you just have 3 days to spend in Fairbanks, Alaska it’ll be an incredible experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the breathtaking views of the northern lights and majestic Mount Denali to the diverse wildlife making its way through the valley, there’s something for everyone in this scenic city. Here’s the ultimate guide to one weekend in Fairbanks, Alaska: A complete 3-day itinerary!
Side note: The following post was written by Emily who spent 6+ months exploring Fairbanks. This way, you can be sure you are reading the best and most accurate one weekend in Fairbanks itinerary. See the author’s bio at the end for more information.
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Table of Contents
How do I get to Fairbanks, Alaska?
Although it may seem like a faraway land that is too remote for the average traveler to venture to, Fairbanks is actually one of the easiest destinations in The Last Frontier to reach due to its international airport.
Located just a 15-minute ride from the center of town, FAI (Fairbanks International Airport) is conveniently served by Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, among other popular choices.
From there, your best option to get around the city and explore its limits is to rent a car, which can be done on the first floor of the airport. With Hertz, Enterprise, Thrifty, and Budget car rental services all available, you’ll have plenty of affordable options to choose from!
Just be sure to book well in advance. If you plan on visiting in the winter months (as is suggested), then you’ll also want to ensure that your rental comes with very good snow tires or chains and is equipped with an engine block heater, heated oil pan, and battery heater.
Otherwise, once temperatures hit below 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius), starting your car becomes a bit of a gamble!
What is the best time to visit Fairbanks, Alaska?
The best time to visit Fairbanks, Alaska is between December and February when the chance to witness the stunning Aurora Borealis lighting up the night sky in a brilliant display of color is at its peak!
Although the idea of visiting Alaska in the winter months may seem wildly intimidating to some, Fairbanks is actually at its most stunning when blanketed in snow.
December is also when the nearby North Pole goes all out for the holidays and creates the ultimate Christmas Town equipped with candy cane telephone poles (which actually stay up year-round), Santa’s Village, and endless holiday goodies for those who love a good Christmas party. It’s definitely one of the most magical Christmas cities in the US!
For those wanting to partake in outdoor activities such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling, winter, of course, is also the best time to do these activities. It is important to note that the days are SHORT in the winter, so plan your activities accordingly.
Although summer is also beautiful in Fairbanks it usually falls short in adventurous summer activities when compared to its neighboring cities. During the summer months, you may want to visit Healy which houses Denali National Park, the halibut fishing capital of the world in Homer, and even Seward which is the home of the breathtaking Resurrection Bay where the mountains meet the sea.
Summer is also a great time to try out an Alaskan cruise!
So, leave summer to the Kenai Peninsula and explore Fairbanks at its best when the aurora borealis lights up the night sky. Few other places in the world can compare to the winter wonderland ambiance this beautiful city provides!
Where should I stay in Fairbanks, Alaska?
When it comes to finding the best accommodation in Fairbanks, you have several options, however, it’s important to remember that the term “luxury” means a very different thing once you cross the Alaskan border.
Simply delete what you think you know, and get ready to experience a whole new world of accommodations in Alaska. Budget-friendly is, well… you get what you pay for. And luxury, well…let’s just say it’s not going to be The Ritz!
Visiting Alaska comes with some sacrifices, so if you aren’t someone who typically enjoys “roughing it” a little, then just remember how badly you want to see the northern lights. You’ll hopefully remember why the less-than-stellar accommodations will be worth it! 🙂
When it comes to the best areas to stay in Fairbanks, you have a few options. The city itself can be loud and a bit busy, so if you’re trying to experience Alaska’s rural side, then it’s recommended to pick an Airbnb in one of the nearby family neighborhoods. I personally lived in this Airbnb for 3 months during the winter, this was easily among one of the best places we’ve ever stayed in Alaska.
Other recommendations:
- Budget-friendly Option: Billie’s Backpackers Hostel is one of the top-rated budget accommodations in the Fairbanks area. With rates as low as $70 per night for a twin bed, shared bathroom, and full kitchen, Billie’s is a great place to rest your head after a long night of aurora hunting.
- Mid-range Option: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge is a great mid-range option due to its convenient location just 1.5 miles from the Fairbanks International Airport, comfortable beds, clean rooms, and its wonderful onsite restaurant. Situated on the Chena River, guests can enjoy beautiful views of wildlife in the summer or icebergs come wintertime all for rates starting as low as $118 a night for double occupancy.
- Luxury Option: The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks offers as close to luxury as you may be used to in the Lower 48. With clean, spacious, and comfortable rooms, plush bedding, full bathrooms with tubs, complimentary breakfast, and some rooms offering beautiful views of the city, this is easily among the nicest hotels you can find in Fairbanks.
- Dog-friendly Stay: Airbnb is best if you’re looking for dog-friendly accommodations in Fairbanks. Having traveled across the state with a dog, finding affordable pet-friendly hotels is a task in itself. Make sure to filter your Airbnb results to find either an entire place to yourself or a room in someone’s home that fits your budget and needs. The one listed above is also dog-friendly!
- Unique Option: If you’re seeking the ultimate all-inclusive stay during your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska, then Borealis Basecamp needs to be on your radar! Offering once-in-a-lifetime accommodations in igloos equipped with see-through ceilings for viewing the northern lights (plus wake-up calls when the auroras are out) and the opportunity to include exciting activities like snowmobiling and Alaskan reindeer meet and greets, this is one of the ultimate excursions to have in Fairbanks!
Sample 3-Day Fairbanks, Alaska Weekend Itinerary
Day 1 in Fairbanks:
Morning:
Depending on what season you decide to visit Fairbanks in, you may be abruptly awoken by the 4 AM sunlight gazing through your blinds, or you may find yourself tying up your winter boots in the pitch black.
Whichever one seems more your style, be sure to start your day off right with breakfast at The Crepery! Well known for their delicious sweet and savory crepes, they also offer a variety of coffee and espresso drinks.
Late Morning–Afternoon:
With a belly full of crepes and a local cup of coffee or tea to join you, hop on the road and head east to Chena Hot Springs. These iconic natural hot springs are some of the best in the US and are the perfect remedy for soothing aching muscles after a long flight.
Bring your swimsuit, some snacks, and drinks, and sit back and relax for a few hours in these stunning springs surrounded by small mountains.
Following your dip in the springs, head to the on-site Aurora Ice Museum for a tour! These hour-long tours bring you through a beautiful indoor ice museum equipped with chairs, statues, and even a full bar made of ice. For an upgrade on your ticket, you can even include an apple martini made directly on the ice bar in your experience!
Now that you’re truly relaxed, stop over at the Chena Hot Springs Restaurant for some delicious appetizers and meals (pro tip: the wings and burgers are the best!) before making your way back towards the Fairbanks city limits.
Though it does require about an 85-minute drive each way from the city, ask any local… this is one of the best things to do in the area and shouldn’t be missed on any trip to Fairbanks!
Side note: If you don’t have a rental car (or want to drive yourself), you can book a guided tour to the hot springs!
Evening:
After your return to Fairbanks, you have a few options. You can cozy up to a good book and a roaring fire in the summer months. Or if it’s winter, you should take a peak at the Fairbanks Aurora Tracker to see if you should be taking a quick nap before packing up your gear and hitting Murphy Dome Road for some potential aurora activity.
On this first day of your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska, it’s normal to be pretty jet-lagged. Unless the auroras are planning on making an appearance, it’s best to take advantage of some relaxation time so you have all the energy you need for the days ahead.
Day 2 in Fairbanks:
Morning:
On the second day of your Fairbanks visit, stop into Bakery Restaurant over on College Rd. for some rich and hearty eggs benedict, country fried steak, and other popular classics. Grab a coffee to go and head on over to the state’s only Museum of the North!
With an array of unique exhibits that span from anthropology to art and history, this museum offers a comprehensive look at all aspects of Alaskan culture. Explore a variety of artifacts from native cultures as well as learn about modern-day life in Alaska through interactive displays and multimedia exhibits.
Afternoon:
After gaining a whole new perspective on Alaskan heritage, stop into Blue Roof Bistro for some shrimp tacos or pot roast sliders! Offering the locals reliable, delicious meals day after day, this is one lunch spot you won’t want to miss during your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Once your appetite is satisfied, head on over to Pioneer Park to witness endless fun in this Wild West-themed park. If visiting in the summer months, you’ll find shops, museums, shows, and kayak and bike rentals. Most attractions close here in the winter months, but you’ll still be able to take a self-guided tour of artifacts, buildings, and grounds.
Evening:
For the evening, well, it’s about time for a local Alaskan wildlife safari. Grab your camera gear, some food, some drinks, and plenty of patience, and start making your way through the more remote neighborhoods of the city limits.
Start over on Chena Point Rd. and drive slowly along the wide-open meadows in search primarily of moose and coyotes, though bears, bald eagles, and other species have also been spotted.
As mentioned above, patience will be required as you’ll want to dedicate at least 2 hours or so of your evening to spot them. Wildlife in Alaska is most active around dawn and dusk, so plan accordingly depending on the season of your visit.
After spotting wildlife, head back to the hotel to gear up for another night of chasing the lights! If you’d rather not go alone, you can join one of the many northern lights tours!
Day 3 in Fairbanks:
Morning:
To kick off the final day of your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska itinerary, stop into Mocha Dan’s Coffee Hut (drive-through only) for one of the best coffees you’ll have in the 49th state. For food, head to Little Owl Cafe for some fluffy waffles or to pick a treat out of their pastry case.
Be sure to fill up because this afternoon you’re heading to the Chena Lake Recreation Area for some fishing. Whether you plan on visiting in summer or in the winter, this lake is one of the best in interior Alaska for fishing due to the state’s consistent restocking of delicious species, including trout!
Afternoon:
You have the option of joining a guided fishing tour for this excursion, but from a local’s perspective, it’s much more affordable to head to the local Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental and pick up some rods and lures to accompany you on your trip.
If visiting in the winter, you can reserve an ice house cabin by visiting the Fairbanks North Star Borough Parks & Recreation website for just $30 per day!
Evening:
For your last evening in Fairbanks stop into The Pump House for one of the most “luxurious” restaurants you can find in Fairbanks. Don’t worry, casual attire is not only acceptable, but encouraged, and it truly will be one of the best meals you have in Alaska.
From seafood risotto to elk wrapped in bacon, this is one of the best places to try some local game and indulge in a delicious meal to celebrate all you’ve accomplished during your time in Fairbanks!
Then, try your luck again at catching the northern lights one last time! If you have the budget for it, you may want to try out a dog-sledding Northern Lights tour. How Alaskan!
Other things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska:
If an activity mentioned above didn’t really seem like the right fit for your travel style… no worries! There are plenty of other fun things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska! Below are some of the most popular options!
- Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is something that most travelers want to try on their trips to Alaska, but just know that it will come at a hefty price. The typical cost is upwards of $200 per person per hour, so this is something you would likely want to budget for ahead of time. Check out some tours here!
- Drive up the Dalton Highway to catch a glimpse of the trans-Alaska pipeline
- Dog-Sledding Tour: There’s nothing more “Alaskan” that a quintessential dog-sledding tour!
- Attend a local art Show: The Fairbanks Events website does a great job detailing all of the local art shows, pop-up galleries, and city-wide events by date, cost, and time, so you’ll always be in the know of local things to do during your visit.
- Visit the Christmas Markets, shops, and displays at the North Pole: Just a 15-minute drive from Fairbanks! The Santa Claus House is open year-round and will surely make you feel like a kid again!
Where (else) to Eat in the City:
Remember what I said about the term “luxury” and how it’s going to be perceived very differently than you may be used to in other places, well… the same goes for the term “fine dining”.
Here in Alaska, fine dining typically means jeans, a flannel, and work boots are more than acceptable.
- Pump House – Previously mentioned in the 3-day itinerary, Pump House is easily one of the best (if not the best) restaurants in all of Fairbanks. Offering a wide variety of seafood to local game including elk, bison, and halibut, this fine eatery’s parking lot is never empty.
- Brewsters Restaurant – Well known for their juicy hamburgers, Brewsters is serving up classic American fare at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a delicious, no-frills kind of meal, then this restaurant is sure to hit the spot!
- The Cookie Jar Restaurant – A local hit in the world of all-day breakfast, The Cookie Jar has everything you could want from classic brunch dishes to seafood, and even tasty burgers if you’re stopping in around lunchtime. Serving up a traditional diner feel with all the hospitality of home, this American restaurant makes for the perfect comfort food pitstop during your trip to Fairbanks.
Other Tips to know before visiting Fairbanks, Alaska:
Before your trip to The Last Frontier, there are some things you should know. Now, some of these pertain to the season in which you visit, but it’s good to have all of the information in case you’re still deciding between seeing the midnight sun or the midnight auroras!
- Bundle up: Fairbanks can drop into the -50s Fahrenheit (yes negative) in the winter without warning, so make sure to pack plenty of warm layers and a good winter coat!
- Bring your camera: The northern lights are an absolute must-see, so don’t forget to bring your camera or phone with you for photos and videos.
- Pack bug spray: Mosquitoes (and other bugs) can be pretty pesky during summer months so it’s best to come prepared with some insect repellent just in case.
- Explore downtown Fairbanks: There is a lot to see and do around downtown Fairbanks, from shopping for souvenirs at the local stores (The Arctic Traveler is the best), wandering through art galleries filled with local artists’ work, or simply taking a stroll along Chena River Walkway.
- Research Aurora viewing locations ahead of time: If you plan on viewing the northern lights while you’re in town, then research potential viewing locations prior to arriving as they vary greatly due to cloud coverage, tree coverage, and the number of open areas.
- Wear sunscreen: Fairbanks gets plenty of sunny days so don’t forget to pack some sunscreen to protect your skin while outdoors. This goes for even if you’re visiting in the winter – the refraction off the snow can cause serious sunburns!
- Get a fishing license: If you plan on going fishing during your stay, make sure to get a valid fishing license on the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
- Bring cash: Some small businesses in Fairbanks still accept only cash, so it’s best to bring along some just in case.
- Get a rental car: Fairbanks doesn’t offer reliable public transportation, so you will need a rental car during your stay.
- Have fun: Last but not least, enjoy your time in Fairbanks – it really is an incredible place!
One Weekend in Fairbanks Map
Here’s a map showing how to spend your 3 days in Fairbanks! Feel free to download and save it so you can add any other stops to your Alaskan itinerary!
3-days in Fairbanks Isn’t Enough
As you can see, there’s SO much to do in Fairbanks that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Fairbanks itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Fairbanks.
What else would you add to this “One Weekend on the Fairbanks” Itinerary?!
Author’s Bio!
As a full-time traveler and travel blogger, Emily Concannon spent 6+ months in the Alaskan wilderness discovering the 49th state’s best-kept secrets. Now the owner of multiple blogs, including Sea to Summit Alaska, she’s on a mission to continue exploring the world to the fullest! You can follow her journey on Instagram.
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