Fairbanks, AK

North of Perfection

The city of Fairbanks, AK is different from most cities in many ways. At 64 degrees north latitude, this city of about 32,000 sees nearly 24 hours of daylight during the summer and winters have days with just a few minutes of sunlight. It is where rugged mountains give way to immaculate rivers and streams with bountiful wildlife. The proud people of Fairbanks have established a dynamic and spirited city in the far reaches of Alaska. This sense of pride has created a charming city with a wonderful downtown that is steeped in Alaskan culture. And visiting one of the most beautiful natural environments on the planet means that getting out and seeing the nearby natural wonders is an absolute must. While the winters in Fairbanks are, indeed, very cold, its location under the “Aurora Oval” makes it one of the premier places to view the northern lights. On clear nights, it is possible to see the celestial lights shift from purple to red to green.

Because the winters in Fairbanks are very cold and only see a few hours of daylight, the majority of guests visit during the summer. One of the best ways to see Fairbanks is through the many available tours. It’s a great idea to spend a day with a guide walking through town to learn more about its unique history. To see Fairbanks and the region from above, many bush pilot outfits are in town offering flightseeing tours. All will provide views of the amazing landscape and abundant wildlife with. For some time around town, Fairbanks has great shops, galleries and restaurants, all with an Alaskan flair. The accommodations in and around Fairbanks are as unique as the town and have a rustic character that is all Alaskan. Chena Hot Springs Resort is just about an hour north of Fairbanks and is famous for baths that are fed by naturally occurring hot springs. The resort offers a variety of lodging options, from private cabins to yurts and secluded campsites. At the Chena Hot Spring Resort Restaurant, guests can enjoy dishes prepared with produce direct from the resort’s own greenhouse and fresh seafood delivered daily.