Fairbanks is located in the heart of interior Alaska 370 road miles north of Anchorage, about eight hours by car. Fairbanks is Alaska's second largest city with over 80,000 residents in the greater Fairbanks area. Located near the confluence of the Tanana and Chena Rivers, the town was originally founded in the early 1900’s as a trading post serving stern-wheeler riverboats and early gold prospectors. The town still plays an important supply role in Alaska due to its proximity to the Arctic region and North Slope oil fields. Fairbanks typically enjoys long sunny days during the summer months, with temperatures frequently passing the 70 degree mark.

Fairbanks Lodging
Our favorite Fairbanks hotel is located on the Chena River, which runs through Fairbanks and offers some beautiful Alaskan scenery. The River's Edge Resort is a nice family-run hotel offering beautiful private cottages in a riverside setting. Another good choice is Sophie Station Hotel, where every room is a well-appointed true suite. Both hotels are close to the Fairbanks airport as well as major attractions and shopping areas. In you have the time, a night or two in Fairbanks makes a great addition to you Alaska vacation. Check out our Fairbanks Hotels page for a complete list.

Fairbanks Tours and Attractions
The “Golden Heart” city of Fairbanks offers a nice selection of tours and activities. Certainly the most popular is a cruise aboard the Riverboat Discovery on the Chena River. The town also has an excellent museum at the University, and a number of tours exploring Fairbanks’ gold mining history. A city tour or visit to “Alaska Land” is always a great choice. With its northern location, Fairbanks is a great starting point for tours across the Arctic Circle and to the Prudhoe Bay oil fields. See more information on our Fairbanks Tours page.

Fairbanks Transportation
Fairbanks does have an international airport, and major carriers offer service from the continental United States. Alaska Airlines also offers a number of convenient flights each day between Fairbanks and Anchorage. Most visitors travel to Fairbanks by Alaska Railroad or car. The Alaska Railroad offers daily summer service from Fairbanks each morning to Denali National Park, Talkeetna and Anchorage. Many visitors will start their Alaska vacation in Fairbanks, then tour south to Anchorage and fly home or depart by cruise ship from nearby Seward. A full list of options is available on our Fairbanks Transportation page.

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