Fairbanks Top City Highlights Tour Summer/Fall
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Operated by Heart of Alaska Tours.
Fairbanks City Highlight Tour stands out because it's led by passionate locals who know Fairbanks inside and out. Rather than just visiting popular landmarks, you provide an insider's perspective, sharing personal stories, lesser-known facts, and hidden gems that most visitors miss. Your small-group approach creates a personalized experience, making guests feel like they're exploring the city with a friend rather than just following a scripted tour.
Available options
Heart of Alaska, Fairbanks Top City Highlights Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Snack Bar
Museum of the North
Bottled water
Santa Clause House North pole Ak
Air-conditioned vehicle
Morris Thompson Cultural Center
Detailed itinerary
1
The Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska, is a whimsical, year-round Christmas-themed attraction that captures the magic and wonder of the holiday season. Established in the 1950s, this iconic destination features a towering Santa statue, a sprawling gift shop filled with Alaskan-made crafts, ornaments, and souvenirs, and an official Santa's Mailroom where letters to Santa are received and answered. Visitors can meet Santa Claus himself, see reindeer, and experience the joy of Christmas regardless of the season. The Santa Claus House is a beloved stop for families, holiday enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a touch of festive cheer in the heart of Alaska.
2
Stop 2
The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, located in downtown Fairbanks, is a vibrant space dedicated to celebrating the culture, heritage, and natural beauty of Interior Alaska. Named in honor of Morris Thompson, a beloved Alaska Native leader and advocate, the center serves as a gateway for visitors to learn about the region's indigenous cultures, including the Athabascan, Iñupiat, and Yup'ik peoples. The center features engaging exhibits, multimedia presentations, and beautifully crafted dioramas that showcase traditional lifestyles, seasonal changes, and the connection between the land and its people. Additionally, the center houses a visitor information desk, cultural programs, and performances, making it an essential stop for both locals and travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Alaska's diverse cultural tapestry.
3
Stop 3
The University of Alaska Museum of the North, located in Fairbanks, is a premier cultural and natural history museum that showcases the rich heritage and diverse landscapes of Alaska. Renowned for its striking architecture inspired by the Arctic wilderness, the museum offers a captivating journey through exhibits on Alaska's indigenous cultures, wildlife, geology, and contemporary art. Visitors can explore the state's only permanent collection of over 2.5 million artifacts and specimens, including Blue Babe — a 36,000-year-old mummified bison. With its engaging galleries, research programs, and stunning views of the Alaska Range, the Museum of the North is a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the spirit and history of the Last Frontier.
4
Stop 4
Join us for an unforgettable tour of Pioneer Park in Fairbanks, Alaska! Step back in time and experience the spirit of Alaska's Gold Rush era as we explore this unique, family-friendly historical theme park. Stroll through preserved log cabins and authentic Gold Rush-era buildings, hear fascinating stories of the pioneers who shaped Interior Alaska, and see the iconic SS Nenana, a historic sternwheeler that once navigated the Yukon River.
Jump on a train, visit the air museum, let the kids play or have dinner at the salmon bake.
What's not included
several food options at pioneer park late lunch early dinner
Gratuities
Food options at Pioneer Park late lunch early dinner
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
25 reviews
5★
22
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
12 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
please park in row 12
Important notes
No ticket needed just provide your name!
About Fairbanks
Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich gold rush history, and unique subarctic climate. It's a gateway to extraordinary experiences like the Northern Lights, world-class fishing, and a vibrant arts scene. Fairbanks offers a blend of rugged wilderness and charming small-town atmosphere, making it a must-visit for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Chena Hot Springs
A popular destination for soaking in natural hot springs, Chena Hot Springs is located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The resort offers a variety of activities, including aurora viewing, dog sledding, and ice museum tours.
Nature
Full day
Moderate to Expensive
Museum of the North
Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, this museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Alaska. Exhibits include wildlife dioramas, Native Alaskan artifacts, and contemporary art.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate
Fairbanks Arctic Warfare Training Center
This historic site offers a glimpse into the military history of Fairbanks, with exhibits on the Arctic warfare training that took place during World War II and the Cold War.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to Low
Pioneer Park
A 44-acre park featuring historic buildings, museums, and recreational facilities. It's a great place to learn about Fairbanks' gold rush history and enjoy outdoor activities.
Historical/Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free to Low
Mosquito Lake
A popular spot for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species and is a great place to see moose, bears, and other wildlife.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Freshly caught Alaskan salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try dish in Fairbanks.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Reindeer Sausage
A local specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Bannock
A traditional Alaskan bread made with flour, water, and sometimes berries or other ingredients.
Bread
Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without dairy
Akutaq
Also known as Eskimo ice cream, this traditional dish is made with whipped fat, berries, and sometimes fish or other ingredients.
Dessert
Vegetarian, high in fat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Dog sledding
Snowmobiling
Whitewater rafting
Soaking in hot springs
Scenic drives
Wildlife viewing
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Fairbanks for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the midnight sun. The weather is mild, and most attractions are open.
5°C to 25°C
41°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Fairbanks is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in the winter.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities
- • Carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
Getting there
By air
- Fairbanks International Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train
Fairbanks Depot
By bus
Fairbanks Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses run on a regular schedule, but service may be limited in the winter.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Fairbanks
College Area
Chena Ridge
Day trips
Denali National Park
120 miles (193 km) • Full day
Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.
Arctic Circle
115 miles (185 km) north of Fairbanks • Full day
The Arctic Circle is a symbolic line of latitude that marks the northernmost point where the sun is visible at the winter solstice.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
250 miles (402 km) southeast of Fairbanks • Overnight
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Festivals
World Ice Art Championships • March
Midnight Sun Festival • June
Fairbanks Fur Rendezvous • February
Pro tips
- Visit in the summer to experience the midnight sun and enjoy outdoor activities
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter
- Try local cuisine, including fresh seafood and Alaskan specialties
- Be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
