Fairbanks is a charming city in the state of Alaska, with a population of 31.525 residents, according to the 2010 census. Fairbanks is the largest city in the interior region of Alaska and the second largest behind Anchorage. The history of Fairbanks goes back to 1901 when Captain E.T.Barnette founded the city, while heading to Tanacross. Although it is a small city, Fairbanks is a wonderful holiday destination, if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday or weekend getaway.
Top Attractions Within Fairbanks
Santa Claus' House is the place where it is Christmas every day. Santa Claus House offers an amazing assortment of Christmas decorations and ornaments, apparel, collectibles as well as a selection of great toys. You can enjoy an espresso from Santa's Coffee Cache while you browse through the place. There are many unique photo opportunities available, including a life-size nativity scene, a 6 foot plush moose and polar bear, and many themed Christmas trees. Outside, you can take a picture in front of the world's largest Santa statue. You and your children will surely love this place.
Riverboat Discovery is a three hour cruise that will take you into the heart of Alaska. You will visit wonderful places and have the opportunity to see a bush floatplane taking off alongside the runway, visit the home and kennels of the late-four-time Iditarod winner Susan Butcher and gain insight into the ancient Athabascan Indian Culture. Alaskan native guides will take you on a personalized tour.
The Tanana Valley State Fair is in the heart of Alaska, very close to Fairbanks. The State Fair is a community gathering point that features family fun for all, livestock, games, an amusement park, horse shows, arts and crafts, great food and fantastic meals and snacks, and all the entertainment you need in order to have fun with your family and friends.
Fairbanks Alaska is a 32.7 square mile city located in the heart of the interior of Alaska. The climate in Fairbanks is sub artic and they experience extreme weather changes. Fairbanks is known as the “Golden Heart City” and they invite others to come discover why they have earned that name.
1. University of Alaska Museum of the North: This comprehensive museum displays more than 1.3 million objects and specimens that represent the diversity of wildlife, history, and culture of Alaska broken down by regions.
2. Northern Lights: Watch as vibrant ribbons of light dance across the dark night sky. The Northern Lights can best be seen when the nights are long and the sky very dark between December and March.
3. World Ice Art Championships: Every March competitors from around the world arrive in Alaska to compete in this ice carving contest which uses natural ice formed in local ponds. Over 180 sculptures are featured and lit up for nighttime viewing. There is also a kid's park which features ice slides, mazes, and life size animals carved out of ice. If you are not visiting Fairbanks in March, stop by the Fairbanks Ice Museum where some of the world famous sculptures are housed year round.
4. Dog Mushing: Visit the Dog Mushing Museum which documents the historical importants of mushing and then schedule a dog mushing tour for yourself.
5. Pioneer Park: This 44-acre park has many interesting attractions. Relive the days of the Gold Rush in Gold Rush Town. Take a stroll through the Native Village and see how the earliest settlers survived the harsh climate. Play a round at Mini Golf Fairbanks while learning about Alaska's wildlife.
