Fairbanks is a town in Central Alaska, 1488 miles from the start of the Alaska Highway in Dawson Creek, BC. It is the second largest city in Alaska and, being a junction of several major highways, will be a likely stop of most visitors to the state.

Fairbanks proper may be like a lot of towns in the lower 48. There's a Wal-Mart, a Home Depot and a McDonald's. Don't let this fool you. The greater Fairbanks area is a strange place. There are plenty of Alaskan originals here.

Get in

By air
Fairbanks international airport serves both remote destinations in Alaska's interior and international cities.

By car
If you are driving up from Anchorage, the George Parks Highway is a beautiful trip. Plan plenty of time in your schedule for sight-seeing, meals and photographs. During the summer, when the roads are clear, the trip can easily be made in 7 or 8 hours, with stops for snacks and bathroom breaks - depending on road construction and motorhome-convoy-slowdowns. You will pass through Denali National Park on your way which is a popular attraction. However, if you plan to stay the night have reservations well in advance. By "lower-48" standards, accommodation near the park is either "4-star" or "rustic". Both can be pricey, but worth every penny, especially if you spend a day in the park.

Though many think Denali Park is the highlight of the trip there are long stretches of breath-taking beauty. It is not uncommon to see moose, caribou, doll sheep, bear, and other wildlife along the road - have your camera ready. There are plenty of gas stations scattered along the route, but as expected, the prices are much higher than in Anchorage or Fairbanks. Fill up before you leave.

There are several good places to eat along the way as well. Most places will have specialties like reindeer or buffalo on the menu as well as more traditional fare. All in all, you should make the drive at least once. It's worth it.

By train
During the summer the Alaska Railroad provides daily service between Anchorage and Fairbanks, stopping in Denali National Park and other spots along the way. Trains depart Fairbanks at 8:15 AM, and arrive from Anchorage at 8:15 PM. Fares vary throughout the season, with rates between $143 and $179 for a one-way ticket between Fairbanks and Anchorage.

Dining

 • Alaskaland Salmon Bake, 2300 Airport Way (in Alaskaland) - Alaskaland is the mother of all cheesy tourist stops and is heavily trafficked by tour buses filled with foreigners and senior citizens, but for the hungry budget traveler the salmon bake probably provides the best value in Fairbanks. This all-you-can-eat smorgasbord of grilled salmon, halibut, ribs, lemonade, and blueberry dessert can be had for $28 per person (2005 price), which by Alaska standards is a bargain. Summer only, 5:00 PM until 9:30 PM, seven nights a week.

Drink

 • College Coffeehouse, 3677 College Road Unit 4, Tel: (907) 374-0468, Fax: (907) 374-4442 - Coffee and snacks served in an environment perfectly suited for broke college students. Great for studying, chatting, or listening to the frequent musical guests. Internet access (wireless & LAN) is available, with fifteen minutes free with any purchase, and prices of $2 per fifteen minutes thereafter.

Lodging

 • Super 8 Motel, 1909 Airport Road, PH: (907) 451-8888, Fax: (907) 451-6690 - Very much like every other Super 8 Motel in America. Rates average about $130 per night in the summer, and about $70 per night in the winter.
 • Comfort Inn, 1908 Chena Landings Loop, PH: (907) 479-8080, Fax: (907) 479-8063 - Another national chain, this hotel offers an indoor pool and free breakfast. Rates around $160 per night in the summer, $80 per night in winter.

Links

 • Fairbanks Convention & Visitors Bureau 
 • City of Fairbanks Official Site