Fairbanks, Alaska’s second-largest city, sits in the state’s interior at the confluence of the Chena and Tanana Rivers. It’s a common base for two very different reasons: winter aurora viewing and summer access to the far north.
Getting There
Fairbanks International Airport has direct flights from Seattle, Anchorage, and a few other West Coast cities, with seasonal service from more destinations in summer. By road, it’s about a 6-hour drive from Anchorage via the Parks Highway or Richardson Highway. The Alaska Railroad also runs a scenic daily route between Anchorage and Fairbanks in summer.
What to See and Do
In winter (roughly September through April), Fairbanks is one of the most reliable and accessible places in the U.S. to see the aurora borealis, thanks to its northern latitude and often-clear interior skies; many visitors book multi-night stays specifically to improve their odds. The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is a good first stop for Alaska Native culture and regional trip planning. In summer, Fairbanks sees nearly 24-hour daylight and serves as a jumping-off point for trips north on the Dalton Highway toward the Arctic Circle, as well as day trips to Chena Hot Springs. Pioneer Park and the University of Alaska Museum of the North cover local and gold rush history.
When to Go
For aurora viewing, aim for a multi-night stay between late September and March, away from town lights if possible, since even one or two nights can mean bad luck with clouds. For long summer days and access to the Dalton Highway and Arctic Circle, visit June through August, when most tour operators run.
