
Fairbanks
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About Fairbanks
Deep in the land of the midnight sun, Fairbanks is a gateway to northern wilderness as well as a former gold-rush settlement. It has the friendly feel of small-town America, but with a wide mix of inhabitants, including military personnel, artists and nature lovers. There's a lot going on between art events, festivals and markets, not to mention heritage sites where you can learn about pioneer life. It's also one of the best places to watch the magical spectacle of the aurora borealis, and the Arctic Circle is just a day's journey away.
Hostels in Fairbanks tend to be homely places with fully equipped kitchens and snuggly common areas where you can exchange tales with fellow explorers. Extra touches range from facilities for guests to make ice sculptures to complimentary bike rentals and free Wi-Fi. Fairbanks hostels definitely have their own personalities; you can try a hostel with a glass gazebo to sleep in, one with a firepit and backyard grill or an option with dorms in a treehouse.
Fairbanks has a couple of areas to explore. In town are craft shops selling Native Alaskan goods like jewellery and pottery. Along the 100-mile stretch of the Chena River, you'll find unusual activities and events like gold-panning. To take a peek into Fairbanks' past, head to the narrow streets of the Pioneer Neighbourhoods to tour old houses. Fairbanks is also the starting point if you want to explore the Arctic Circle and the surrounding wilderness of forests, mountains and tundra.
Many visitors come to Fairbanks just for the chance to see the northern lights, with August to April being the peak time to witness these swirling green skies. The town itself brims with culture too – you can look forward to traditional dance festivals, fascinating heritage museums and displays of public art. There's a solid foodie scene with farmers markets, craft beers and a local brewery. Keen for adventure? In just 2 hours you can be searching for wildlife like caribou and grizzly bears in Denali National Park.
If you're coming to Alaska, chances are you'll fly into Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage. From there, you can take a connecting flight to Fairbanks that arrives in an hour. It's 8 hours if you opt for the bus instead and 12 by train, but the long journey will reward you with staggering views. If you're regularly using the public bus in Fairbanks, getting a day pass can save you a few coins.
City Info
3 Hostels in Fairbanks

Located in Fairbanks
Billie's Backpackers Hostel (Alaskahostel.com) is Alaska's longest operating hostel. We are a family ru
Located in Fairbanks
Sven's Basecamp Hostel was rated the top Hostel in Alaska in 2019 according to Alaska Travel Association. What makes this Hostel so special is its spacious layout with volleyball fields, fire pits, big decks, a spacious kitchen, 3 bathrooms, 2 showers, laundry...
Located in Fairbanks
Great place to stage your Alaskan adventure! Located on the east side of town convenient to all shopping, restaurants, banks.
Fairbanks is a fantastic destination for backpackers offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and affordability. Whether you're planning a short trip or making it part of a longer backpacking journey, this city should definitely be included in your travel itinerary. When looking for accommodation in Fairbanks, hostels provide the best value and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Whether you're looking for a social party hostel, a quiet retreat, a centrally located base for exploring the city, or something in between, Fairbanks has options for every type of traveler. Many hostels in Fairbanks offer additional amenities like free breakfast, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, and organized activities.
When visiting Fairbanks, don't miss the opportunity to:
- Explore the local cuisine and nightlife
- Visit historical landmarks and cultural sites
- Connect with other travelers at hostel events
- Discover hidden gems off the tourist path in Fairbanks