Fairbanks continued to grow as new people moved to the area in search of gold. The area's population grew quickly in the 1940s after the United States Army built an airfield. Today, the airfield is known as Fort Wainwright.
Seasonality of Fairbanks, AK
There's no way around it: Fairbanks is cold throughout most of the year. If you don't like cold weather, you should visit during June or July, when daily highs can reach 73 degrees Fahrenheit. Even during summer, though, you can expect daily lows around 50 degrees.
Temperatures become dramatically colder during winter. Many days in January, the coldest month, never exceed one degree Fahrenheit. At night, temperatures can drop well below -10 degrees.
Cold, snowy conditions prevent most people from visiting Fairbanks during winter. This causes hotel prices to fall slightly during the colder months. If you want to visit during summer, you should expect to spend a little more money than travelers who visit during winter, fall, and spring.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Fairbanks, AK:
Fairbanks by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Fairbanks, AK. You can use these illustrations to calculate the most cost effective time period to book a room in Fairbanks for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Fairbanks, AK
Fairbanks, Alaska, doesn't have the type of luxury hotels you would expect to find in larger cities like New York or Miami, but it does have a couple of hotels that stand out from other properties in the city. If you're looking for something close to the luxury experience, you'll want to stay at one of these two hotels.
The Hampton Inn & Suites on Harold Bentley Avenue is almost certainly the most luxurious hotel in Fairbanks. The 101-room hotel boasts an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and a 24-hour fitness center. Guests also get to enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free transportation to and from the airport. If you're traveling for business, you can use the hotel's 700-square foot conference room.
Travelers who have stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites praise the hotel's courteous staff members. The multilingual staff provides a clean, comfortable place for guests to stay. They're also available to help you find interesting activities in the Fairbanks area.
The La Quinta Inn & Suites on Dale Road is another hotel that you might consider a luxury option in Fairbanks. The 133-room hotel provides a lot of free services, including Wi-Fi, airport transportation, breakfast, parking, and daily newspapers. Guests can use the 24-hour fitness center, lounge area, and computer station. Business travelers may want to access the 2,800-square-foot conference space, four meeting rooms, and 24-hour business center.
The La Quinta Inn & Suites has a convenient location that's less than one mile from Fairbanks International Airport. It's also near popular destinations like the Carlson Center and the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Rooms usually cost a little less at La Quinta Inn & Suites than the ones at Hampton Inn & Suites, so it's a good place for travelers who want a luxurious experience without spending moire than $250 per night.
Lower Cost Options in Fairbanks, AK
3 Star Average Prices: $139.60
Hotels in Fairbanks tend to cost more than those in many other cities. The higher prices aren't particularly surprising, though, when you consider that Fairbanks has a fairly high cost of living. Because of this, you can't expect to see many hotel rooms in the $50 to $75 range. You can, however, find some rooms priced around $100.
The Travelodge on Lacey Street has the lowest prices of all Fairbanks hotels. Despite the low price, you get several good amenities, including free Wi-Fi and free breakfast. The 65-room hotel has a business center where you can check email, send faxes, and use other types of office equipment.
Several Travelodge guests note that the hotel has a premium location that's within a few miles of the University of Alaska Museum, Fairbanks Community Museum, World Eskimo Indian Olympics, and Alaska Railroad Station. If you want a convenient place to stay without spending a lot of money, Travelodge is one of your best options.
2 Star Average Prices: $109.12
Best Discounts in Fairbanks, AK
Plenty of hotels in Fairbanks offer discounted rates to certain people. Members of the United States Armed Forces can get discounts at Wedgewood Resort. Senior citizens can save money by staying at the Best Western Plus on Tvsa Way or Bridgewater Hotel on First Avenue. If you have a AAA membership, you could qualify for discounts at Travelodge and Hampton Inn & Suites.
Hotels often set aside a specific number of rooms for discount rates. If other travelers book those rooms before you, you might have to pay full price. Place your reservations early to make sure you get the discount you deserve.
Best Value Options in Fairbanks, AK
Best value hotels usually have mid-range prices. They aren't always the cheapest option in town, but they're not the most expensive, either. Instead, they focus on giving you as much as possible for your money. If you're looking for a great value, you should get a room at one of these two hotels. They offer some of the best deals in Fairbanks.
The Super 8 Motel on Airport Way has some of the lowest prices in the area. Despite this, guests say it's an incredibly comfortable, clean place to stay. You can enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking during your stay. Pets are allowed, but you have to pay a $20 surcharge per pet, per night.
Travelers really like Super 8's location. It's within a few miles of popular destinations like the Carlson Center, Fairbanks Ice Museum, and the Chena River Convention Center. If you want a convenient hotel that doesn't cost much money, this is a great option.
The Best Western Plus on Chena Landing Loop also stands out as one of Fairbank's best deals. The rooms cost more than those at Super 8, but you get more in return. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking. You also get access to a 24-hour business center and indoor pool.
Guests who stay at the Best Western Plus say they like the hotel's large rooms and interior design. It's not fancy, but it feels fresh and modern. It's a terrific option when you want a nice place to stay without spending more than $200 per night.
Top Four Destinations to See in Fairbanks, AK
Fairbanks may not have a large population, but there are a lot of things to do when you visit. Whether you're heading to Fairbanks for business or pleasure, you should find time to see four popular destinations: the Aurora Ice Museum, Running Reindeer Ranch, the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center.
You have never seen anything like Aurora Ice Museum. The museum, which is located about 50 miles north of Fairbanks, features ice sculptures made by Steve Brice, one of the world's best ice carvers. The museum has ice igloos where you can enjoy drinks. You'll even see life-sized jousting knights, a giant chess set, and other sculptures. All of them are made completely of ice. It's a fascinating place that you must visit when you're in the Fairbanks area.
Meanwhile, Running Reindeer Ranch is a wonderful destination for families. The farm gives you a chance to interact with reindeer, even allowing you to reach out and pet them. Experts advise guests to give the reindeer sturdy pats on the back, as the animals often think light pats are annoying insects. During your visit, you can interact some animals and learn more about these fascinating creatures.
The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum has over 85 vehicles on display. Each one has been chosen for its rarity, technological innovation, or historical significance. The museum even has the first car built in Alaska. Remarkably, the man who built the vehicle in 1905 had never seen a car before. Some of the most impressive cars on display at the museum include an 1899 Hertel Runabout, 1929 Ford Model A Special Coupe, and 1934 American Austin Series 475 Coupe. The museum also has special exhibits that provide detailed looks into select cars.
The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center gives you insight into Alaska's unique cultural heritage and environment. Depending on when you visit, you can also see stage shows that feature traditional music, dancing, and storytelling. If you want to learn about what makes Fairbanks such a special place, you need to spend some time at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. Travelers who visit this destination gain knowledge that enhances the rest of their experiences in Fairbanks. The center is open seven days a week, so you won't have a good excuse to avoid it.
No city in the United States is anything like Fairbanks, Alaska. If you have a chance to visit, make sure you get as much out of the experience as possible.
FAQs about hotels in Fairbanks
How much does a cheap hotel in Fairbanks cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Fairbanks can be as cheap as $109.12 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Fairbanks cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Fairbanks has been $139.60 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city of Fairbanks
Below are reviews of the city of Fairbanks, AK from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Ice Sculptures!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I didn't do a lot in Fairbanks other than the Ice Sculptures, which was fantastic! We did have an amazing breakfast at Great Harvest.
Anita S., from 16-Mar-2024
"Ice Park Light Show"
Score
5.0 / 5
We enjoyed the light show at the Ice Park.
Thomas L., from 23-Dec-2023
"Running Reindeer Ranch, Aurora Point & Dog Sledding!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I love the snow (we don't see snow very often.) I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon at The Running Reindeer Ranch. Aurora Point was fun. The absolute most awesome highlight of my trip was my dog sled ride at Rob's Alaskan Guide Service. My musher, Joe Weber, was phenomenal. I wish I could have visited his Motley Crew Kennel but I didn't have the time. Next trip, I'll go there first. Loved Fairbanks. Loved the people. I'll be back!
Marvelyn M., from 16-Nov-2023
"Great Brewery!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Friendly feel to the town, HooDoo Brewery was great.
Margaret B., from 02-Oct-2023
"The people, the food, the land."
Score
5.0 / 5
The people, the food, the land.
William T., from 01-Sep-2023
"BEAUTIFUL Area!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Very laid back and beautiful surroundings with lots of green trees and beautiful landscape up to the mountains.
Eliepa M., from 08-Aug-2023
"Artic Circle"
Score
5.0 / 5
I enjoyed going to the Artic Circle!!
Cynthia B., from 18-Jun-2023
"Airport Shuttle & Good Food!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Uber, Lyft and Airport Shuttles and good food!
Maxine A., from 13-Feb-2023
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Attractions were easy to find and Fairbanks roads are great.
Rosanne C., from 05-Feb-2023
"Very nice and clean hotel with a comfortable bed."
Score
4.0 / 5
We were there for a family emergency. Fairbanks Memorial Hospital have such wonderful caring staff. Very nice and clean hotel with a comfortable bed.
Karen M., from 19-Nov-2022
"Fairbanks Memorial Hospital"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were there for a family emergency. Fairbanks Memorial Hospital has such wonderful caring staff.
Karen M., from 17-Nov-2022
"The room and bathroom were clean"
Score
5.0 / 5
I like that it is not spread out. Anything that you are looking for is pretty close by. The Riverboat Discovery is a must if you go to Fairbanks.
Lisa H., from 22-Oct-2022
"Riverboat Discovery"
Score
5.0 / 5
I like that it is not spread out. Anything that you are looking for is pretty close by. The Riverboat Discovery is a must if you go to Fairbanks.
Lisa H., from 16-Sep-2022
"Riverboat Discovery"
Score
5.0 / 5
I like that it is not spread out. Anything that you are looking for is pretty close by. The Riverboat Discovery is a must if you go to Fairbanks.
Lisa H., from 16-Sep-2022
"Good Service"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everyone we came in contact with was very helpful and friendly including hotel staff:)
Dougles S., from 07-Sep-2022
"Museum of the North & Fountainhead Auto & Costume Museum"
Score
4.0 / 5
Museum of the North and Fountainhead Auto & Costume Museum & great Thai food!
Darrel P., from 30-Jul-2022
"Great Location near Museums and Downtown!"
Score
5.0 / 5
We were within minutes of almost everything: the Museum of the North, Antique Car Museum, downtown and many restaurants.
Helen A., from 30-Jul-2022
"Great location near downtown, art galleries, restaurants & museums!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Loved downtown art galleries and restaurants and museums that were a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Barbara B., from 18-Apr-2022
"Nice Area!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very easy to get around. Establishments were very nice to visitors.
Lucy S., from 27-Mar-2022
"The Scenery!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The snow and the scenery!
Chris B., from 28-Feb-2022
"Fairbanks is a great city."
Score
5.0 / 5
Yes Fairbanks is a great city, love visiting when I have visitors from the lower 48.
Raymond G., from 31-Jan-2022
"Fantastic Stay!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Restaurants & Northern Lights were awesome.
Mike K., from 08-Mar-2018
The average traveler rating of the city of Fairbanks, AK shown above is
4.7 out of 5 based on 22 reviews