Travel Physical Therapist

Fairbanks is one of those places where there’s always something to do—whether you like outdoor adventure, culture, food, or just unforgettable experiences. Here’s a clean breakdown:

🌌 Northern Lights / Aurora Viewing

Fairbanks is one of the top places in the world to see the Aurora Borealis, especially from August–April.
Popular viewing spots:

• Chena Lake Recreation Area

• Murphy Dome

• Cleary Summit

• Aurora viewing lodges & tours

🔥 Chena Hot Springs

A must-do. Soak in natural hot springs surrounded by snow and mountains.
Also onsite:

• Ice Museum

• Dog sledding

• Snowmobiling

• Northern Lights tours

🏞 Outdoor Adventure (Year-Round)

Summer:

• Hiking in the White Mountains

• River floats on the Chena River

• Fishing for salmon & grayling

• ATV tours

• Midnight Sun festivals (because it barely gets dark!)

Winter:

• Dog sledding

• Snowshoeing

• Ice fishing

• Cross-country skiing

• Snowmachining (snowmobiling)

🌞 Midnight Sun

In the summer, Fairbanks gets up to 22 hours of daylight. Locals stay active late—fishing at midnight and playing sports after 10 p.m. It’s a surreal, energizing experience.

🎭 Culture & Local Attractions

• University of Alaska Museum of the North – great for art, Alaska history, & Indigenous culture

• Morris Thompson Cultural Center – free exhibits & local insight

• Pioneer Park – shops, museums, local food carts

• Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

• Aurora Ice Museum

🧊 Unique Alaska Experiences

• Watch the Yukon Quest dog sled race (depending on season)

• Enjoy local breweries & craft coffee shops

• Try reindeer sausage, halibut, or salmon at local eateries

• Join community events like the Tanana Valley State Fair

🍽 Food & Local Favorites

Fairbanks has a surprisingly good food scene:

• The Crepery

• Lemongrass Thai

• Jazz Bistro

• Lavelle’s Bistro

• Hoodoo Brewing Co.