Top Fairbanks How to Get Around

You’ll explore Fairbanks in a way that’s personal, flexible, and heartfelt, laughs, stories, and real connections included. This isn’t a rushed checklist of stops, it’s a chance to experience the city’s true spirit with a local guide who loves sharing it. From meeting Santa and his reindeer to snapping selfies at the Alaska Pipeline, browsing local art and culture, fueling up with local fudge and coffee, and diving into history at the Museum of the North you’ll see why Fairbanks is called the Golden Heart City. We’ll finish with a stop at the Great Alaska Bowl Company, where handmade craftsmanship meets the perfect souvenir. This is the Heart of Fairbanks tour where reindeer and culture meet coffee and laughs bundled with Alaskan Charm. Embrace the unknown, let your bucket list be your compass and I’ll be your guide.

Travel like an Alaskan—aboard a dogsled—during this dogsledding and mushing experience in Fairbanks. Hop aboard and hold on to be towed by energetic dogs down five miles (eight kilometers) of snowy trails with your private party. You can help drive the team with voice commands, as your guide supervises from the back of the sled.

Venture away from the light pollution of Fairbanks, without worrying about navigating the snowy roads, with this aurora-chasing tour. Travel from your hotel in a heated van in search of the colorful natural phenomenon. Learn about the aurora and Alaskan culture from your guide, enjoy a twilight campfire meal, and even get tips on how to capture the northern lights on your camera.

Go ice fishing in Alaska at a remote spot outside the city of Fairbanks with a guide who provides fishing gear and tips. Stay warm in a cozy heated cabin next to the frozen lake, and snack on reindeer sausage on buns, and fresh grilled fish (that you catch). Includes use of fishing gear and cabin, guide, and refreshments.

Go far off the beaten track on this small-group tour that takes you along one of the world's most isolated roads. Travel into the Alaskan wilderness along the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to the edge of the Arctic Circle. On the way back, keep your eyes peeled for the northern lights, though the natural phenomenon cannot be guaranteed.

Discover the unique charm and history of Alaska’s Golden Heart City on this half-day guided tour. We’ll take you on a comfortable ride through Fairbanks, with stops at some of its most iconic attractions. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and fun, ideal for first-time visitors looking to experience the essence of Fairbanks in one engaging excursion.

Zip around by snowmobile on the outskirts of the North Pole during a 1-hour guided tour near Fairbanks. Your guide provides driving instructions and practice time before you head out past the Alaska Pipeline and through snow-covered forests. You'll ride in comfort on a Ski Doo luxury touring snowmobile that accommodates one or two riders, and has heated handgrips and electric start. Look for Alaska's native wildlife including moose, fox, snowshoe hare, ptarmigan, grouse, and squirrels. Includes experienced guide, and use of snowmobile and weatherproof clothing.

Experience the thrill of Alaska’s gold mining history at Gold Dredge 8! Start with an up-close look at the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and discover the story behind its construction and operation. Then, climb aboard a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad and enjoy entertaining stories from the conductor about the thousands of prospectors who flocked to the gold fields during the gold rush. Your scenic train ride delivers you straight to Gold Camp, where you can explore the dredge and try your hand at gold panning—with gold guaranteed! Enjoy complimentary coffee and freshly baked cookies in the gift shop, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and stories of Alaska’s gold rush before returning to the station.

Journey north from Fairbanks along the Dalton Highway, one of the most remote and northerly roads accessible by vehicle, to the Arctic Circle. You’ll spend the day moving deeper into Alaska’s far north as forest thins and the landscape opens into wide valleys and tundra. We make several scenic stops at viewpoints for photos and short walks throughout the day, including time at the Arctic Circle sign (66°33′N). On the return, the late-night drive is timed for prime aurora viewing hours, with a chance to see the northern lights. Your guide uses real-time aurora forecasts to choose the best stops and timing. This is primarily a road-based experience with short, easy walks and ongoing commentary from your knowledgeable Alaskan guide. Groups are limited to 6 guests in a new 11-passenger van fully equipped for Arctic conditions, with guaranteed window seats, an unhurried pace, regular breaks, and flexibility, plus snacks, water, and hot drinks.

Get a quick introduction to the Alaskan tradition of ice fishing in the Chena Lakes Recreation Area. Your guides provide all the necessary equipment—rod, bait, heated shelters, underwater cameras—and serve a grilled fish dinner once the fishing is done. You can fish from the heated cabins and shelters, or move outside to try your hand in the open elements.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the Northern Lights from the warmth of our fully equipped RV. Skip the wait in the cold – we’ll pick you up from a convenient location and take you on a magical adventure. Relax and enjoy the luxury of onboard amenities: a private restroom, high-speed Wi-Fi to share the moment live, cozy snacks, hot drinks, and even a complimentary photo service to capture the magic. Our spacious RV combines comfort with adventure, so you can focus on experiencing the aurora while we handle the rest. Book your spot now for a once-in-a-lifetime experience under the stars!

Brand-new for 2025, the Aurora Glass House sits atop Cleary Summit in Fairbanks, Alaska. With floor-to-ceiling windows and over 270° panoramic views, this modern cabin offers a warm, cozy space to enjoy the Northern Lights. Relax in plush lounge chairs, sip hot drinks, and hear stories from your friendly local host while the aurora dances across the sky. Highlights • Brand-new Aurora Glass House for 2025 on Cleary Summit • Over 270° panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows • Stay warm with cozy seating and complimentary hot drinks • Perfect for couples, families, and photographers

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime, family friendly experience as we guide you inside Castner Ice Cave in the heart of one of Alaska's famed glaciers! We will drive from Fairbanks, passing open tundra with herds of caribou, the Trans-Alaskan pipeline, and on clear days see the stunning Alaska Range. Once we arrive at the glacier area we will gear up with snowshoes or ice cleats for your boots before heading out on a guided 1.5 mile hike to the Ice Cave! Please note that the hike itself is rather flat and easy-going, however extreme cold temperatures can make things difficult. Please come prepared! We will learn about the history of glaciers in Alaska, geology, local history, and much more as we embark to the glacier. This will no doubt be an adventure to bring home and tell your friends and family about! Licensed by Bureau of Land Management, Department of the Interior permit #2025-00551. Current photos from 24/25 winter season

Grab your camera and prepare to see some of winter’s best work as you venture into the Alaskan Arctic Circle and go aurora hunting. Capture snow-capped forests, ice fields, and gushing rivers–and, of course, that obligatory photo at the Arctic Circle sign. As the sun and moon swap shifts, get ready for a spectacular display of aurora dancing in the night sky.

Immerse yourself in the Arctic Circle and Dalton Highway on this tour from Fairbanks. Beat vacation planning overwhelm, and leave the organization and logistics to your guide. Cover plenty of ground in a vehicle, resting your feet between stops at Finger Mountain, the Arctic Circle Monument Sign, and more. Perfect for travelers wanting to visit the Arctic Tundra on their trip to Alaska.

Step into the shoes of a newly-minted detective, tasked by Commander Mahoney to solve a gripping case... murder on the streets of Fairbanks. Throughout this crime-solving audio adventure, visit each of the 10 mapped locations. You'll have the option to explore the downtown area using the Walking Map or follow a Driving Map on the city's outskirts. Once you choose, the exact starting point will be revealed. *See images for route. Park or stop at each location, listen to the audio story, and put your detective skills to the test by gathering clues and piecing together the evidence. Finally, make your deductions and issue an arrest warrant. Your overall detective skills will be evaluated, culminating in a Case Performance Score to measure your sleuthing prowess. This game is suitable for solo detectives, dynamic duos, or groups of mystery enthusiasts, offering an immersive audio tale filled with intrigue.

Spend an incredible night on the hunt for the elusive northern lights with guides passionate about helping you make the most of your Fairbanks trip. Travel in a comfortable vehicle with included hotel pickup on this flexible journey and get complimentary photography if you finally see the aurora borealis to help make sure these are memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore interior Alaska and head out in search of the northern lights with this small group tour from Fairbanks. Your guide takes you to a remote location you couldn’t find on your own, and then settles in to view the lights. Get your cameras ready for some incredible shots. While you wait, you can relax in a comfortable, warm lodge.

Travel deeper into Alaska on this unforgettable Arctic Circle tour. Experience the thrill of standing on the Arctic as you traverse the legendary Dalton Highway, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rugged beauty. Along the way, our knowledgeable guide shares fascinating stories about the region's history, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and the unique local environment, making this journey both educational and memorable. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Alaska. - Step foot in the Arctic Circle and experience a unique destination - Scenic drive along the famed Dalton Highway with stunning views - Insightful commentary on Alaska's history, Pipeline, and environment - Ideal for adventure seekers and those looking to explore Interior Alaska

Look no further for a cozy, curated northern lights experience. Head to the cozy rustic Alaskan cabin, high on a ridge overlooking the Alaska Mountains. As you wait for the sky to light up in neon technicolor, keep comfortable with hot cocoa, coffee, and snacks. From there, all you have to do is enjoy the show (aurora sightings are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed).

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.

Discover Alaska’s natural hot springs and amazing ice sculptures without having to sort out your own transportation on a full-day tour to Chena Hot Springs from Fairbanks. Soak in thermally heated open-air hot springs and check out the intricate ice sculptures displayed at the Aurora Ice Museum.

Learn more about Fairbanks’ intriguing culture and history on a small-group sightseeing tour. Browse the exhibits at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center and the Museum of the North, where you find contemporary art, natural history, and an intriguing sound room. See the Alyeska Pipeline from the viewing point and pay a visit to Santa Claus at the North Pole. Note that the itinerary may change seasonally.