Golden Heart Tour gold panning, Arctic Animals Local Treasures
Active
6h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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About this experience
Your local, knowledgeable guide will pick you up & take you on a full-day adventure through Alaska’s history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. We’ll begin by visiting the Alaska Pipeline. After a gold mine , where you’ll learn the rich story of Fairbanks’ gold rush roots including the era of Felix Pedro the traditions that helped build Alaska. Enjoying a charming ride on a small train inspired by Alaska’s rail history, traveling on your way to the gold panning area. Here, you’ll have the chance to pan for gold yourself & yes, you’ll take your gold home with you as a real Alaskan souvenir! Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, featuring vintage cars, elegant historic clothing, and unforgettable. Then we’ll head to the Large Animal Research Station to see & learn about incredible animals up close including musk ox, reindeer, caribou, while learning about their role in Alaska’s culture and environment. Finish the day Great Alaska Bowl Company, creations made from Alaska.
Available options
Golden Heart Tour gold panning, Arctic Animals Local Treasures
Pickup included
What's included
Admission fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your gold rush adventure aboard a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad train, then enjoy a fun, hands-on gold panning experience with a live demonstration and time to pan for real gold yourself. Afterward, explore the mining museum and get an up-close look at the famous Gold Dredge 8 and of course Souvenir shopping.
2
Stop 2
Visit the UAF Large Animal Research Station (LARS) to see muskoxen and reindeer buffalo up close learn about Alaska’s incredible Arctic animals through education and outreach.
3
Step back in time at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, home to an incredible collection of rare pre–World War II automobiles and beautiful vintage clothing and fashion from the same era. This is one of Fairbanks’ hidden gems and a fun stop for all ages even if you’re not usually a ‘museum person!
4
Stop at one of Fairbanks’ best local treasure shops! The Great Alaskan Bowl Company is one of the last working wooden bowl mills in the U.S. and a fun place to browse handmade bowls, ‘Made in Alaska’ gifts, birch syrup, smoked salmon, and unique souvenirs.
5
Stop at the Trans-Alaska Pipeline to learn how this engineering masterpiece was built, why it matters, and get great photos up close while I share fun local history.
What's not included
Final drop-off is included at your hotel or a dinner location of your choice in Fairbanks. Additional transportation after drop-off is not included. Food drinks are not included in price.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
No separate entry ticket is required. Your guide will handle admissions and entry at each location during the tour.
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
