Things To Do
Denali National Park and Preserve
It is very worth it to drive 2.5 hours down to Denali National Park to see everything they have to offer. Take a tour, hike some trails, and get a glimpse of Denali. And if you want to do something more laid back, check out the gift shops and restaurants in Healy which is approx. 10 miles from the park entrance.
Alaska Railroad
Explore Alaska by taking day trips on the Alaska Railroad. The train does go as far as Anchorage, and other trains do go beyond Anchorage if you want to spend multiple days sightseeing on the railroad, but day trips from Fairbanks-Denali are most common.
Chena Hot Springs Resort
You can enjoy a dip in a natural hot spring by driving about an hour northeast of Fairbanks. This resort also has a restaurant, indoor pool, and ice museum you can check out.
Buffalo Center Drive-In
Located an hour and a half away in Delta Junction, this old school drive-in is one of our favorite places to eat at least once every summer. We recommend the buffalo burger if you do make the drive out. Note: They accept cash only and there is an ATM on the side of the building.
Angel Rocks Trailhead
If you enjoy hikes, come check out Angel Rocks Trailhead between milepost 48 and 49 on CHSR. There are signs along the highway that point out the trailhead so it should be fairly easy to find. The short loop (Angel Rocks route) is about 3.5 miles and the longer route (Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs Trail) is 8.3 miles one way.
Santa Claus House
It is Christmas year-round at the Santa Claus House in North Pole and this is a popular attraction you should definitely experience. You will see their wide assortment of Christmas decor and ornaments as well as their sweet shop filled with all kinds of goodies. And to top it off, you can walk next door to see Santa's reindeer!
Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
This 2,000+ acre bird sanctuary is perfect for wildlife viewing and nature walks in Fairbanks. Every spring and fall, thousands of migratory birds are seen in the open fields. Some even like to stay through summer.
Chatanika Lodge
This historic restaurant is another favorite about a 40 minute drive north of town. The owners and staff are very friendly, and the food is great! There is an old gold dredge across the road that is easy to see and walk to if you are up for an adventure. (Sidenote: Be sure to ask the staff about their ptarmigan caller if you want to see something very cool)
