25 Unique Things To Do in Fairbanks in Winter 2026


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What are the best things to do in Fairbanks in the winter? Is Fairbanks worth visiting in winter?

What may come as a shock to many is that the weather in Alaska in the winter can actually be similar to that of New England or even the Midwest depending on the region you visit. But, Fairbanks is an entirely different ball game!

Sean and I lived in Alaska for almost a year and resided in Fairbanks, specifically, for an entire winter season. Yeah, you can call us true sourdoughs.

But, sourdoughs as we may be, we still had to endure -50°F temperatures, ice coming through our outlets and cracking our windows, and roads entirely made of packed down ice and snow that our Forester handled like a champ.

Despite all this, we had an incredible time and we would absolutely return for another winter full of ice fishing, northern lights hunting, wildlife spotting, snowshoeing, and local holiday fair shopping (among dozens of other things).

In this post, we’ve provided you with more than 25 great things to do in Fairbanks if you decide to visit between November and March including some of the most popular activities as well as some of our personal favorites that not many tourists know about!

We’ve also supplied you with some of our best tips for getting around Alaska in the winter, some essential items to pack, and some average temperatures by region.



1. Go Ice Fishing for Arctic Char – one of the best things to do in North Pole

A man fishing sitting in a blue camping chair over an ice fishing hole in a cabin

Or rainbow trout, or even Northern pike! No matter what you want to bring home for dinner, ice fishing is practically a must when visiting Fairbanks in winter.

Whether you decide to take a tour or check a bag full of your own gear and rent out a cabin, you’ll be surrounded by locals when you make your way out onto the ice on Chena Lake in nearby North Pole.

Now, if you aren’t aware, “North Pole” is the name of a town that neighbors Fairbanks and is easily reachable by car. I’m not talking about the place where Polar Night exists. This is where we always went ice fishing on our own and when family visited us in Alaska since our lovely Airbnb hosts had all the fishing gear we needed.

This allowed us to rent an ice-fishing cabin through the Chena Lake Recreation Area which was far cheaper than taking a tour. But, if you don’t have your own ice fishing gear, then you’ll need to go on a tour and this one is top-rated!

Here are 5+ Top-Rated Fairbanks Ice Fishing Tours for 2025-2026 if you want more options.

2. Try Your Luck with Northern Lights Viewing at Murphy Dome

Green northern lights over a snowy road with a metal tower
The northern lights giving us a show on Murphy Dome in Fairbanks

Probably the #1 thing to do in Fairbanks in the winter is to see the northern lights! After all, Fairbanks has been ranked among the best places in the world to see them.

While residing in Alaska, we were lucky enough to see the aurora borealis on dozens of occasions, so we’re gonna give you a couple of tips for spotting them yourself!

First, it needs to be clear out. Clouds = no northern lights viewing. If the hourly forecast is cloudy, snowy, rainy, or the like for the whole night, then do yourself a favor and get some sleep instead of waiting up all night.

You can always set an alarm if the clouds are supposed to clear by a certain time!

Also, you need to escape the light pollution. Not that Fairbanks has much of it, but head up to Murphy Dome (only if you have some serious experience with winter driving!) or make your way down Chena Hot Springs Road.

These are the two best spots in Fairbanks for northern lights viewing, but don’t underestimate the dangers of going out aurora hunting on your own in Fairbanks in winter.

You’ll need a rental car with an engine block heater, heated oil pan, and battery heater, safety rations of food and water, extra blankets and layers, a tow rope, a shovel to dig yourself out if you go off the road, etc.

We witnessed a lot of accidents and tourists who hit snow banks and all but totaled their rental cars on these roads (with no safety equipment in their vehicles), so if you aren’t extremely comfortable driving in winter conditions, please take a northern lights tour like this one.

They’re top-rated and well worth all of the safety provisions that you won’t have to put in place yourself. You can also check out my full in-depth guide on the 10 BEST Alaska Northern Lights Tours in 2026 if you plan on taking a tour!

3. Take a Dip at the Chena Hot Springs Resort

A man and a woman in a hot spring surrounded by snow-covered trees
We’ve been to the Chena Hot Springs half a dozen times – this was the day Sean got frostnip on his ears!

Not only is Chena Hot Springs Road one of the best spots for viewing the northern lights, but it’s also the only road that leads to the iconic Chena Hot Springs Resort (as the name suggests!)

We’ve been to the hot springs a half-dozen times now, and will never turn down an opportunity to visit. Set against stunning snow-capped mountains and just steps from the stunning Aurora Ice Museum as well as a good restaurant supplying strong espresso martinis, this is the perfect way to relax after a long travel day to Alaska!

When it comes to Fairbanks winter activities, visiting the local hot springs is definitely not something you should skip. Just be sure to budget some extra time for the trip, as it’s about an hour and 15-minute ride each way from the city center.

If you want to skip the hassle of driving two and a half hours on likely-to-be-icy roads, then you can consider booking this Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks!

They include your tickets to the Chena Hot Springs, hotel pick-up and drop-off in Fairbanks, as well as all of the equipment you’ll need for viewing the auroras if the forecast is good (though I suggest bringing your own tripod!)

4. Go Snow Mobiling Under the Aurora Borealis

Snowmobile in a snowy field under the northern lights

While there are great tour options for snowmobiling during the day over the ice-covered lakes and woodsy trails in Fairbanks, if you have prior snowmobiling experience, then booking a night tour when your chances of seeing the auroras borealis skyrocket is a better option!

You’ll join a small group and follow a guide through stunning trails surrounded by snow-covered pine trees with excellent chances of viewing the lights due to the nature of the tour. You’ll be leaving the areas with the most light pollution, making your odds of scoring an epic photo go way up.

Snowmobiling is always fun, but if you get the chance to capture a photo like the ones in this Aurora Sleighers Snowmobile Tour, then you hit the winter in Fairbanks jackpot!

5. Go Back in Time at the Museum of the North

I’ll be honest with you, I typically don’t enjoy museums… I get bored pretty quickly (apologies to my history-loving husband!) BUT, I actually really enjoyed the Museum of the North! They cover the history of Alaska beautifully, but most importantly for us when we visited in winter, it was really warm inside which was a huge perk when Sean’s family visited.

They have everything from the geological history of Alaska to native Alaskan cultures and traditions. Personally, I found the animal exhibits the most interesting, but they also have a great selection of Alaskan art and photography to view.

Plus, if you’re planning on heading out to the Arctic Circle, then I highly recommend stopping by this museum beforehand! It’ll give you a good idea of what wildlife you may see once you cross over on the Dalton Highway.

6. Go Shopping at the Fairbanks Holiday Marketplace at the Carlson Center

I learned about this holiday market from our Airbnb hosts in Fairbanks and let me tell you it is undoubtedly one of the best holiday markets in the 49th state!

There are dozens of booths filled with unique crafts and products from Alaskan natives (which just makes everything better in my opinion). This is also where we met the lovely Amy Johnson, a famous aurora photographer, and picked up a gorgeous handcrafted metal wolf ornament.

You can find everything from delicious homemade treats like chipotle dip which was a fan favorite when our families visited, to metal prints of local wildlife and even the products of numerous skilled woodworkers!

7. Toast Gingerbread Martinis at The Pump House

A man and a woman sitting at a restaurant table with a partially carpeted floor
This may be among the worst photos ever taken of us, but it gives a good view of The Pump House!

Probably in our top five favorite restaurants in all of Alaska, The Pump House is mainly popular among locals owing to its more remote location outside of town – which means you know it’s going to be good!

Personal favorites of ours include the seafood risotto and the elk meatloaf wrapped in bacon (I bet you could guess who preferred what).

Among these items, you have dozens of other local specialties including reindeer medallions, king crab macaroni and cheese, and of course some grilled Alaskan halibut.

Eating out in Alaska is typically on the pricier side anyway, so you might as well splurge a little and head to the other side of town to The Pump House where the food, desserts, beverages, and service are all exceptional.

8. Take a Stroll through the Handmade Holiday Market in Pioneer Park

A man making a snow angel under an airplane statue
Leska & Sean making snow angels in Pioneer Park!

Similar to the market located at the Carlson Center, this market focuses more on homemade crafts than food, so you’ll find everything from warm knitted apparel to handcrafted jewelry and natural beauty products.

Pioneer Park is also a great place for a winter walk as the park is transformed into a winter wonderland during this time of year!

We loved taking our dog there, renting sleds, and taking photos of the snow-covered log cabins.

9. Have a Pint Around the Fire at HooDoo Brewing Company

Hitting the local breweries is among the most popular things to do in Fairbanks in the winter

Definitely one of our favorite breweries in Alaska, HooDoo offers a mix of light and hoppy beers with a cozy wooden interior and an outdoor fire pit which is perfect for a cold winter night.

They also occasionally host events including trivia nights, food trucks, and live music! Plus, you really can’t visit Fairbanks without trying the German Kölsch which has a cult-like following amongst locals.

As you can see in the photo, we were often the only ones who felt like braving the brutally cold temps, so you can also just choose to sit inside if you don’t feel like watching your beer freeze before your eyes!

10. Look for Moose in the Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary

An adult moose surrounded by birch trees

Moose often make their way into the boonies of Alaska come winter where they’ll be less exposed to the harsh elements, particularly the wind. Because of this, the best places to spot them are typically in wooded areas where they’re either seeking shelter or foraging for food.

The Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to start as it’s located just outside of the city and is a popular spot for moose sightings! Just be sure to keep your distance (like a football field’s worth) from these large animals and never feed them.

Easily one of my favorite things to do in Fairbanks in winter, wildlife sightings are fortunately common for travelers!

11. Take a Drive up to the Arctic Circle along the Dalton Highway

Subaru Forester car parked next to the "Welcome to the Dalton Highway" sign on a muddy road

Now I know this doesn’t technically count since the Arctic Circle lies about 194 miles north of the city, but if you’ll be visiting Fairbanks for more than a day or two then it’s definitely worth the drive.

Of course, you’ll need a hefty rental vehicle fitted with four-wheel drive and all the safety equipment I mentioned above, but if you’re able to swing it, why not visit the Arctic Circle? This may be the closest you ever get to it!

Plus, you’ll have the chance of spotting some rare North American mammals including muskoxen and the Arctic fox. Just keep in mind that driving the Dalton Highway can be perilous, so be sure to read up on it via our complete guide before you go!

12. Pick up Some Snow Shoes at the Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental

If you’re looking to just get outside and enjoy the beautiful, snow-covered scenery, be sure to pick up a pair of snowshoes at the Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental over on Standard Ave. to keep your feet and pants warmer and dryer!

They also have high-end camping gear rentals if you’re planning on heading out into the backcountry for a day or two.

Cross-country skiing is also a popular winter activity in Alaska, so be sure to pick up some skis and poles while you’re there as well! Don’t worry, they’ll give you all the necessary tips and tricks for beginners.

13. Book a Ride on the Alaska Railroad

A yellow train driving along the ocean with a mountain in the background

If you’ll be traveling to Fairbanks from Anchorage, consider taking the scenic route and riding the Alaska Railroad! Not only will you be able to take in stunning winter landscapes, but also have a chance to see wildlife along the way.

The train is absolutely beautiful with its large windows perfect for sightseeing and comfortable seating to relax in. Plus, they offer a variety of different packages including overnight stays at remote lodges or just a day trip.

The best part about booking the train is you won’t have to deal with airports or TSA like you would if you flew, plus it’s about 100x more scenic. Not to mention a flight in Alaska in winter is much more likely to be delayed than the train!

For more details on the Alaska Railroad, check out my complete guide on the Anchorage to Fairbanks train.

14. Rent Scooter Sleds in Pioneer Park

snow-covered log cabins
You can see one of the scooter slides behind this log cabin

If you’ll be traveling with kids (or just some really fun adults) and are wondering what to do in Fairbanks in winter, then stop into Pioneer Park and pick up some scooter sleds!

Now, I’m totally making this name up because they’re simply called “sleds” but they’re nothing of the sort in our opinion. Instead of the typical sit-and-slide type sleds that we grew up with, you stand on these sleds and kick the ground to move forward like you would do on a scooter: hence scooter sleds.

Regardless of what you want to call them, we saw a lot of people enjoying their time on these throughout the park but we ran out of time on both occasions we visited. Don’t be like us – rent the scooter sleds!

15. Go for a Walk Along the Chena River

One of the most relaxing things to do in Fairbanks in the winter is to take a stroll on the boardwalk that lines the Chena River. Come late November, the edges of the riverbed are covered in crystal-clear ice and by January all but a narrow section of the rushing water is visible between the thick layers of ice.

The reflections of the sunset in the river make for some incredible photos, too! In addition to your camera, be sure to bundle up for your leisurely walk along the river because it gets very cold.

16. Pick up Some Alaskan Souvenirs at the Arctic Travelers Gift Shop

Ornaments hanging on a metal rack in a store window

I love finding authentic souvenirs whenever I travel, and the Arctic Travelers Gift Shop in Fairbanks is one of my favorites in the state! I’ve also written about the top 25+ authentic Alaskan souvenirs with many of them available at this very shop!

They have everything from beautiful handpainted ornaments from local artists to unique postcards that you can’t find elsewhere. I actually picked up a few ornaments for my family members and mailed them back to New England for Christmas and they were very well-received.

17. Check Out the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

If you have a classic car enthusiast in your group, you absolutely must pay a visit to the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum!

It houses an exquisite collection of over 95 pre-World War II cars, all of them painstakingly restored to their original gleaming glory.

But it’s not just about cars; the museum also features vintage clothing and accessories, effectively transporting you back to the golden age of motoring.

18. Have Fun Ice Skating at the Big Dipper Ice Arena

Two adults and one child holding hands while ice skating

Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just a beginner, don’t miss the chance to lace up your skates and hit the ice at the Big Dipper Ice Arena! This indoor arena is beloved by locals and tourists alike and offers a fun and invigorating way to immerse in the Alaskan winter spirit.

I will tell you that there are a few lakes and ponds in the area that you may see people ice skating on and while this is typically safe mid-winter, you’ll want to ensure you tag along with someone who is confident in their abilities to test ice thickness for your own safety.

Also, nobody likes traveling with a set of ice skates just for a couple of hours of skating, so it’s easier just to rent them at the arena.

19. Check out Beautiful Ice Sculptures at the Fairbanks Ice Museum

If you’re fascinated by the charm of ice and the artistry it can inspire, the Fairbanks Ice Museum is a must-visit!

You can see everything from beautiful ice maidens and ferocious polar bears to intricate abstract shapes. I love it when the sculptures are illuminated by subtly placed lights so that the sculptures glow in an array of colors.

This is one of the best indoor things to do in Fairbanks in the winter for people who enjoy unique art exhibits!

20. Immerse Yourself in Alaskan Culture at the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

Landscape photo of snow-capped mountains, a blue lake, dark trees, and a golden sky

The Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center is a trove of engaging exhibits that represent the rich heritage of Alaska. I’m not really someone who enjoys cultural centers, but I was actually pretty wowed by the larger-than-life dioramas that showcased the local wildlife and scenery throughout the seasons.

Another great indoor Fairbanks winter activity, this museum is a gateway to understanding the unique traditions of the Alaskan Native communities.

21. Visit the Friends of Creamers Field at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge

Situated in the heart of Fairbanks, the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge is an oasis of natural beauty and biodiversity. This 2000-acre sanctuary is managed by the Friends of Creamer’s Field and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.

The refuge is home to a plethora of migratory birds, including sandhill cranes, ducks, and geese, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. We recently got a new long lens for our travels, and have been dying to try it out here!

The Friends of Creamer’s Field also organizes a range of educational programs and guided tours, through which visitors can learn about the refuge’s history, fauna, and flora.

22. Get Merry with the Locals at Midnite Mine

Pool table in a colorful bar

Let’s be very clear: Midnite Mine is somewhat of a dive bar that caters to a specific kind of traveler.

Think strong drinks, low lights, numerous TVs, bar peanuts, and one pool table that always has the same local playing it with his very own cue stick that he brought from home… and we love it!

You’re actually talking to someone who beat that same local at his own game when she rarely plays more than once a decade. So, if you’re up for some drinks, a little Billiards, and some sports TV, head to Midnite Mine.

23. Prance with the Reindeer at Running Reindeer Ranch

If you’ve ever dreamt of frolicking with reindeer, Running Reindeer Ranch is the place for you! Tucked away in the stunning Alaskan wilderness, this family-owned ranch provides a unique, immersive experience that’s well worth a visit.

Here, you can get up close and personal with the ranch’s friendly animals, learning all about these fascinating animals from the knowledgeable and passionate ranch owners.

You can also get the chance to feed them or go on a walk with them through the woods, all with the guidance of the team of course.

24. Jump Around at the Fly Trampoline Park

If you’re traveling with kids and have an extra cold day on the forecast, then the Fly Trampoline Park is a great option to add to your Alaskan itinerary!

This indoor park features various trampoline activities, like dodgeball and basketball courts, foam pits, and of course, open jump areas! It’s the perfect place to let loose and burn off some energy while staying warm and dry.

25. Have Dinner with a Local Family by Staying in an Airbnb

A man, woman, and dog standing in the snow surrounded by trees

Easily one of the best things to do in Fairbanks in the winter is to stay with a local family and enjoy a homecooked meal together. Do some research ahead of time by reading some reviews and figuring out which Airbnb stays have your hosts staying in the home with you!

Our hosts were absolutely wonderful and not only did they invite us to dinner with their family for the holidays and family game nights, but they also gave us moose, salmon, and caribou that they hunted to try.

I typically am a vegetarian/pescatarian owing to my love for animals and don’t usually support the idea of hunting, but this family in particular was so careful about ensuring they didn’t add to any population issues and they used the entire animal for food for the year with zero hunting for sport.

If you can find a family similar to this, you’ve hit the Alaskan host jackpot!

A girl standing outside pointing to a thermometer
This outdoor thermostat broke at -10°F and my beer turned to an icy slush mixture

Fairbanks is notorious for its frigid winter temperatures, which can be an adventure in itself for those who dare to embrace the chill. Winter, stretching from late October to late March, leads the mercury to typically plunge below freezing consistently for the duration of the season.

Average high temperatures in the heart of winter (December – February) hover around -20 to -30°F (-29 to -34°C), but it’s not uncommon for the city to experience extreme cold snaps with lows reaching -50°F (-45°C) or colder.

Despite the severe cold that Alaskan winters bring, the dry climate makes it more bearable, and the city’s infrastructure and residents are well-prepared for these conditions.

Just be sure to dress in layers and bundle up properly! In these temperatures, snow pants, wool socks, thermal underwear, and extreme-weather hats and mittens will be required.

Snowy road with pine trees and a golden sunset
The roads in Fairbanks during the winter months are made of packed-down snow and ice (plows aren’t used for snow/ice removal!)
  1. Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is winter-ready. This includes checking your tires for good tread and inflation, ensuring your battery is in good shape, and that your car’s heating system is working properly.

  2. Carry Essential Supplies: Always carry a winter-driving kit in your car. This could include an ice scraper, shovel, sand or kitty litter (for traction), jumper cables, blankets, flashlights, and first aid supplies.

  3. Watch the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Conditions in Fairbanks can change quickly in the winter months, so it’s important to be prepared.

  4. Slow Down: In snowy or icy conditions, it’s crucial to reduce your speed. Remember, posted speed limits are intended for ideal conditions. In winter, it’s often necessary to drive slower.

  5. Keep Your Distance: Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Stopping distances can be much longer on icy or snowy roads.

  6. Avoid Sudden Moves: Gentle acceleration, slow braking, and smooth steering can help maintain control in slippery conditions.

  7. Stay Calm in a Skid: If your vehicle begins to skid, remain calm, take your foot off the accelerator, and steer in the direction you want to go.

  8. Turn on Your Lights: With shorter days and snowfall, visibility can be reduced. Always keep your headlights on to make it easier for other drivers to see you.

  9. Know the Road Conditions: Familiarize yourself with the local road conditions and routes. Avoid travel during heavy snowfall or in blizzard conditions if you can.

  10. Let Others Know Your Plans: Always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to arrive, especially for longer trips. That way, if something happens, they’ll know where to look for you.

Fairbanks’ activities aren’t exactly close to one another all the time, which is why we’ve created our very own custom itinerary creator to help you keep track of all the activities you want to do in Fairbanks!

Just fill out the form below with the activities you want to include each day and you’ll get to immediately download your itinerary to your computer for FREE!

No payment, no email addresses!

Destination(s):

Dates:

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In this section, we’ve provided you with the answers to some essential questions that you’ll want to be aware of before visiting Fairbanks in the winter months!

Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting in Winter?

SUV surrounded by snow-covered trees and green northern lights

Fairbanks in winter is a truly unique experience that is well worth a visit. Despite the frigid temperatures, the city offers a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities to suit all preferences.

From witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights to engaging with reindeer at Running Reindeer Ranch, there are plenty of unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere.

The city’s well-prepared infrastructure and the hearty resilience of its residents make it an intriguing winter destination. Plus, what better way to immerse yourself in the Alaskan lifestyle than braving the cold like a local? Just remember to bundle up!

How to Spend 3 Days in Fairbanks Alaska?

To make the most of your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska, it’s important to have a schedule that balances indoor and outdoor activities, considering the cold winter temperatures.

Day 1: On the first day, if you aren’t feeling the effects of jetlag too much, head to the Museum of the North to learn about the region’s history and culture. If you’re feeling tired, take a relaxing stroll through Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge!

Afterward, take some time to enjoy a hearty meal at The Pump House before getting your tripod and camera settings ready for a possible night of aurora viewing.

Day 2: On day 2, grab your bathing suit and make the journey to the glorious Chena Hot Springs Resort for a relaxing soak in the hot pools (remember to bring a hat to protect your ears!)

On your return, pick up some snowshoes or cross-country skis from AK Outdoor Gear Rental and explore the serene trails around town.

Day 3: On your last day, take a visit to Running Reindeer Ranch for an up-close encounter with Santa’s favorite animals, followed by a guided tour to Murphy Dome or Cleary Summit for some more aurora viewing.

Before you head home, be sure to pick up a local Alaskan souvenir to commemorate your trip!

How Should I Dress for Fairbanks in Winter?

Dressing for winter in Fairbanks requires thoughtful layering. You’ll want to start with a base layer of thermal underwear that wicks away moisture—think materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics.

Layer on top of that with an insulating middle layer such as a fleece or down jacket. Your outer layer should be waterproof and wind-resistant to protect you from snow and icy winds.

Don’t forget about your extremities, as these are most susceptible to the cold. Invest in a good pair of insulated, waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry. Thermal wool socks are a must.

Wear a warm hat that covers your ears, and consider a neck gaiter or scarf to protect your face. Mittens tend to be warmer than gloves, but make sure they’re waterproof if you plan on playing in the snow!

Lastly, the use of thermal leggings or long johns under your pants on particularly cold days isn’t optional, and remember, it’s better to be too warm than too cold—layers can always be removed if needed.

The temperatures in Fairbanks averaged around -10°F to -30°F (-23 to -34°C), and at these temperatures, any exposed skin is at risk of frostnip which soon turns to frostbite if the area doesn’t get warmed up.

This happened to Sean during one of our winter visits to the Chena Hot Springs when he didn’t wear a hat and kept his ears out of the water on a -22°F day, and both ears suffered frostnip. They turned completely white and all the skin died and came off.

Fortunately, we noticed this happening when we were still in the water and were able to head inside when we realized something was wrong, but it took three weeks for the skin to all fall off, the pain to subside, and new skin to form.

Don’t make the same mistake and dress appropriately!

How Many Days a Year Can You See Northern Lights in Fairbanks?

Technically speaking, the aurora borealis are out every night of the year, but you can only see them under immaculate conditions.

Now, there’s no way I can provide you with an exact number, but Fairbanks, being situated in the so-called “aurora oval,” has the chance of seeing northern lights on any day with a solid amount of darkness and clear weather – which is a lot of them!

However, the visibility of the auroras depends on the weather, solar activity, and the time of day. Typically, the lights are most visible between 10 PM and 2 AM from late September to mid-April.

Remember, a clear, dark sky is the key to a successful aurora viewing experience, so check the weather forecast and aurora predictions before setting out!

Can I See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks Without a Tour?

It is possible to see the northern lights without a tour, however, it’s not typically recommended. While heading off on your own can be an exciting and freeing experience since you’ll be entirely on your schedule, it’s also quite dangerous.

Tours provide a unique experience with experts who know the best viewing locations and times, while also providing all of the safety equipment and knowledge that you’ll need for a positive experience.

If you are feeling confident in your winter driving abilities and have all the gear you’ll need, by all means, have fun! Some great viewing spots are Cleary Summit, Murphy Dome, or the Chena Lakes Recreation Area where you have higher chances of a clear, unobstructed view.

However, you’ll want to ensure you have plenty of spare food and water in case you get stranded (which happens quite often), plenty of extreme weather winter gear, equipment to dig yourself out of a snow bank, and a rental car fitted with an engine block heater, heated battery cover, and heated oil pan.

↪️Most tourists don’t visit with all of this equipment on hand, so it’s much easier just to join a tour!

Is Fairbanks the Coldest Place in Alaska?

While Fairbanks experiences extremely cold temperatures, it is not the coldest place in Alaska. That title goes to the small town of Utqiaġvik (formerly known as Barrow), the northernmost city in the United States.

Situated above the Arctic Circle, Utqiaġvik averages temperatures below freezing for the majority of the year, making it the coldest populated area in Alaska.



A trip to Fairbanks in winter offers a plethora of unique and unforgettable activities. From basking in the ethereal beauty of the northern lights to unwinding in the soothing warmth of the Chena Hot Springs, and encountering reindeer up close, there’s something for everyone in this winter wonderland.

Remember to dress appropriately for the cold temperatures and consider hiring a tour guide for the best and safest experience. Embrace the freezing temperatures, immerse yourself in the local culture, and enjoy these top things to do in Fairbanks in winter!

Up next, take a look at our Essential Guide to Traveling to Alaska for our top tips and resources for visiting The Last Frontier!


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