Fairbanks North Star Borough Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide of Fairbanks North Star Borough, including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food scene, local culture and customs, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Fairbanks North Star Borough

Fairbanks North Star Borough is a large area situated in the Interior of Alaska in the United States of America. It covers an area of  7,444 square miles and has a population of around 100,000 people. Fairbanks, the biggest city, is the center of commerce and tourism in the area. The borough is home to beautiful natural landscapes, amazing wildlife, museums, historical sites, and vibrant cultures.

List of Places to Visit in Fairbanks North Star Borough

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center: Discover the rich history and culture of Alaska through exhibits and displays.
  • University of Alaska Museum of the North: A world-class museum that houses over a million exhibits and artifacts about Alaska’s history, geology, flora, and fauna.
  • Pioneer Park: This open-air museum features original cabins and buildings from the Gold Rush era and hosts many events and festivals throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Fairbanks North Star Borough: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chena River State Recreation Area: This park features numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and secluded scenic views.
  • Denali National Park and Preserve: Located about 2 hours from Fairbanks, it is home to Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America. Visitors can experience incredible wildlife and views of glaciers, mountains, and forests.
  • Creamer’s Field Migratory Refuge: This restored historic farm is now a haven for many bird species and provides a critical stopover for migratory birds each year.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fairbanks North Star Borough

  • Angel Rocks Trail: A scenic 4.5 miles hiking trail leading to granite rock formations and breathtaking views
  • Goldstream Valley Trail: A 5.5 miles hiking trail through forests and streams
  • Biking the Chena River Bike Path: A paved 25 miles bike path along the Chena River, where you can enjoy beautiful views and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Fairbanks North Star Borough: Activities and Tours

  • Aurora Borealis Viewing: View the awe-inspiring Northern Lights at several locations around Fairbanks during the winter months.
  • Riverboat Discovery Cruise: Take a scenic boat tour along the Chena and Tanana Rivers, and learn about the cultural and historical significance of the area.
  • Hot Springs: Soak in the natural hot springs and mineral pools around Fairbanks for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fairbanks North Star Borough

Day 1: Visit Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, take the Riverboat Discovery Cruise, or visit Pioneer Park

Day 2: Go for a scenic drive along Chena Hot Springs Road, stopping at viewpoints, trailheads, and hot springs.

Day 3: Visit Goldstream Valley Trail, Creamer’s Field Migratory Refuge or hike the Angel Rocks Trail.

Day 4: Explore the University of Alaska Museum of the North, or nearby historical towns, such as Nenana or Salcha.

Day 5: Visit the North Pole Christmas-themed town or rent snowmobiles to explore the nearby area.

Day 6: Journey to Denali National Park and Preserve for a day trip.

Day 7: Enjoy some of the local food and drink options, visit local markets or go shopping for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Fairbanks North Star Borough

Must-Try Dishes

  • Reindeer Sausage: A traditional Alaskan sausage made from reindeer meat, often found at local farmer’s markets or cafes.
  • Fish and Chips: A classic dish made with fresh Alaskan salmon or cod.
  • Wild Berry Jam: A sweet and tart jam made from locally harvested berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries.

Local Beverages

  • Breweries: Experience the flourishing beer scene in Fairbanks with some of the local breweries that produce their own unique range of beers.
  • Kobuk Coffee Company: A local coffee roaster that serves some of the best coffee and espresso drinks in the city.

Where to Stay in Fairbanks North Star Borough: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Pike’s Waterfront Lodge: A luxurious hotel located on the banks of the Chena River, with magnificent views and comfortable rooms.
  • Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge: A cozy lodge nestled in the heart of the town that provides tranquil and scenic views.
  • Hostels: The hostel scene in Fairbanks is vibrant, with several options, such as Sven’s Basecamp Hostel, Billie’s Backpackers Hostel, and Fairbanks Alaska Hostel.

What to Buy in Fairbanks North Star Borough: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Handmade Art and Crafts: Obtain the handcrafted items produced by the native Alaskan artisans to get a glimpse of their culture.
  • Gold Rush-themed Souvenirs: You can take a momento from the area’s Gold Rush past, such as little bottles of gold flakes or nuggets, or gold pans and mining tools.
  • Food and Beverages: Purchase the traditional Alaskan delicacies and unique local beverages, such as smoked salmon, reindeer sausage, and Kobuk coffee.

Local Culture and Customs of Fairbanks North Star Borough

  • Respect: Respect for the locals and their culture is essential. Always ask before taking photos of individuals or places that might be private or sacred.
  • Dress Appropriately: Dress properly, including hats, gloves, and waterproofing, when venturing into the backcountry.
  • Sustainability: Preserve the local wildlife and environment by picking up trash and waste, keeping noise levels low, and following the local park rules and regulations.

Best Time to Visit Fairbanks North Star Borough

The best time for a visit to Fairbanks North Star Borough is between late September and early April, when the Northern Lights are at their vibrant best. The summertime is equally stunning, with 21 hours of daylight, making the area ideal for outdoor adventures and hiking trips.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fairbanks North Star Borough

Do:

  • Do Explore the Outdoors: Venture outside and experience the natural beauty of the area through hikes, wildlife tours, or scenic drives.

  • Do Dress Properly: Proper outdoor gear is a must when traveling to Alaska, to protect yourself from the weather.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Feed Wildlife: Feeding wildlife interferes with their natural habitat and can put both humans and animals at risk.

  • Don’t Trespass on Private Property: Always keep to designated trails and areas that are open to the public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fairbanks North Star Borough

Fairbanks North Star Borough is generally safe, but one should take necessary precautions when traveling in remote areas or hiking the trails. Avoid traveling alone in the backcountry, and be bear-aware by carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking.

Health in Fairbanks North Star Borough

One should take necessary precautions to avoid issues like altitude sickness, hypothermia, and dehydration when traveling to the backcountry or hiking the trails. Additionally, bring all essential medication and vaccines, as some areas may have limited access to medical care.

Getting to Fairbanks North Star Borough: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fairbanks North Star Borough

  • Fairbanks International Airport: The airport is 5 miles from the city center and serves several major airlines, both domestic and international.

Bus Stations Near Fairbanks North Star Borough

  • Fairbanks Bus Lines: Provides regular bus services to and from Anchorage.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Choose a rental car to explore the local sights and attractions or travel to nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Fairbanks North Star Borough

Fairbanks North Star Borough is a large area, and it is better to have a rental car to transport from place to place. You can also use local buses, taxis, and shuttles for short distances. During the winter season, visitors can experience dog sled rides or snowmobile tours.

Where to Go Next from Fairbanks North Star Borough: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Denali National Park and Preserve: A two-hour drive from Fairbanks, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Arctic Circle Drive: A scenic and stunning drive from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle, offering breathtaking and unique views of the region.
  • Nome: A small town in western Alaska with a rugged beauty and a unique history of gold prospecting and Native culture.

Conclusion

Fairbanks North Star Borough is an ultimate destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts. The area offers a host of options for visitors to explore spectacular landscapes, wildlife, geology, and history, making it an unforgettable Alaskan experience. Plan an extended vacation in the area to soak in the unparalleled landscape, culture, history, and cuisine that make Fairbanks North Star Borough such a unique destination.



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