A Quick Overview Of Anchorage vs Fairbanks

Anchorage: A Quick Overview

Anchorage is the biggest city in Alaska, being home to almost 40% of the state’s population. That’s around 290,000 people, though close to 400,000 live in the full Anchorage metropolitan area. It sits in Southcentral Alaska, on a peninsula, and has an intriguing location, being almost equidistant from New York, Tokyo, and Murmansk in Russia.

Compared to many other cities around Alaska and the rest of the U.S., Anchorage is quite young. It was settled as a simple tent city back in 1915 as work began on the Alaska Railroad, becoming a city a few years later, in 1920. The area was originally called Anchor Point, but later changed to Anchorage when the city was formed, as there was already another Anchor Point.

Despite beginning life as a small, temporary settlement, Anchorage rapidly expanded into Alaska’s biggest city. This is mainly thanks to its handy location, with great transport links by rail, road, sea, and air. Indeed, the city’s airport, Ted Stevens Anchorage Airport, is a common stopping-off point for long-distance flights across the global north.

From a touristic point of view, Anchorage is widely regarded as the best city to visit in Alaska, due to its large population and numerous attractions. There’s lots going on here, and it’s one of the top spots for people to fully embrace Alaskan culture, learn about the state’s history, taste the finest Alaskan food, and so on. It’s also easy to get to, thanks to the aforementioned airport.

Fairbanks: A Quick Overview

Fairbanks is a city in the Fairbanks North State Borough of Alaska. It’s the biggest city in Alaska’s vast Interior region, as well as being the second-largest in the state. However, its population is notably smaller than that of Anchorage, with only around 32,000 people in the city itself and a total of around 95,000 in the metropolitan area.

The history of this city goes back a little further than that of Anchorage. Yukon banker and riverboat captain, E.T. Barnette, laid the foundations of the city when he founded a trading post there in 1901. Gold was soon discovered in the area, leading to a surge of miners and their families flocking to the area. Fairbanks was incorporated in 1903 and Barnette became mayor.

The city flourished during the gold rush days, later seeing sudden rises and falls in population over the ages. It became a military staging location during World War II, before emerging as a touristic hotspot in more modern times, ranking as the smallest city in the U.S. to have its own international airport with regular non-stop flights from around the world.

Famed as one of the top spots in Alaska for seeing the Northern Lights, Fairbanks is also very appealing to those who want to see the wilder, Arctic parts of the state. It’s closer to Denali than Anchorage, with many popular touristic towns in the surrounding area, as well as nearby ski resorts and countless outdoor recreation opportunities.

Which Is Best For Activities?

When it comes to picking between Anchorage or Fairbanks, one of the first things to consider is the activities and attractions you can expect to enjoy in each city. Naturally, as the bigger and more developed city, Anchorage has much more to do, but there’s still plenty to keep you busy in Fairbanks. Here’s a look at the top activities in each location.

Anchorage: The Activities

As stated earlier on, Anchorage is a super spot to choose if you want to unpack the rich history and culture that makes Alaska special. A great place to start is at the Anchorage Museum, which is the largest in the entire state and tells its story through art and historic items. The Alaska Aviation Museum is also worth seeing, exploring the city’s deep aviation associations.

There’s also the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, which provides a deep dive into Alaska’s indigenous people, covering their traditions, customs, language, and more. Plus, since this is such a big city, it’s simply filled with stores and restaurants where you can sample traditional food, buy handmade souvenirs, and truly connect with Alaskan lifestyles.

Of course, many people also head to Alaska to enjoy the wildlife and scenery of the state, and Anchorage gives you many ways to do that. There’s the Alyeska Tramway, which takes you over 2,000 feet up for amazing glacier views, along with lots of national parks nearby for hiking, climbing, kayaking, and so on. Many cruises also depart Anchorage and set off along the coast.

For wildlife encounters, you can visit the Alaska Zoo or Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. And when it comes to green spaces, Anchorage continues to impress. There’s the Alaska Botanical Garden, displaying countless native and imported plant species, as well as vast Kincaid Park, with Nordic skiing trails, hiking paths, a disc golf course, and sports fields.

Fairbanks: The Activities

Like Anchorage, Fairbanks has some fascinating museums to see. The Aurora Ice Museum, for instance, is the world’s biggest year-round ice environment, crafted from over a thousand tons of ice and snow. The Museum of the North, meanwhile, shows off some of the culture and history of Alaska’s northern and interior regions.

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is a great spot for car fanatics too, and there’s even a historic theme park in Fairbanks called Pioneer Park. There, families can dive back into the past, ride a more than 100-year-old carousel, as well as a 1930s riverboat, and admire relics from the glory days of the Fairbanks Gold Rush.

However, even though there are several fun family attractions here, Fairbanks is primarily attractive for its surrounding scenery and outdoor recreation. There are lots of outdoor tours and opportunities here. You can take a Northern Lights viewing tour for an unbeatable visual experience, do a day trip to Denali National Park, or delve into the Arctic northern landscapes.

Since this part of the state is generally quite sparsely populated, you can feel at peace here and truly connect with nature. It’s a dream spot for adventurers, hikers, and climbers. There are also multiple ski resorts in the Fairbanks area, like Fort Wainwright, Moose Mountain, and Skiland, perfect for snowy activities like snowshoeing, sledding, and tubing.

Overall, both of these cities have plenty to keep you busy. Fairbanks is great for those looking to spend more time in nature and avoid the hustle and bustle of the big city. Meanwhile, Anchorage has much more urban entertainment. Fairbanks is good for a few days or so, but you’ll need at least a week to truly experience the best that Anchorage has to offer.

Which Has The Best Weather?

Everyone knows that Alaska is a cold and snowy state, with low temperatures for large parts of the year. However, since it’s also such a vast state, conditions can vary quite a lot from city to city and region to region. When comparing the weather in Anchorage and Fairbanks, you might be surprised by some of the differences.

Despite being further north, Fairbanks actually has slightly warmer peak temperatures than Anchorage. The summer months are reasonably comfortable. However, in winter, temperatures drop much lower in Fairbanks than they do in Anchorage. So, it’s important to think about the time of your visit to decide on the right city for you.

Overall, Fairbanks has more extreme weather, with higher highs and lower lows. The weather in Anchorage is a little more consistent, and Anchorage also gets more snowfall.

Which Is Best For Day Trips?

It’s also worth considering day trip potential when choosing between Anchorage and Fairbanks. If you have enough time, you might like to spend a day or two leaving these cities behind and exploring some of the surrounding towns and locations. So, which one is best for day trips, with the best local places to see?

Well, Anchorage has amazing transport links across south and central Alaska. You can easily access stunning glacial landscapes like the Matanuska Glacier, for example, or try a day trip to the Turnagain Arm, with its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. There are also charming towns like Girdwood, and lots of water-based day trips along the coastline.

From Fairbanks, you can quickly and conveniently reach a range of romantic and quaint towns, soaking in the soothing waters of Chena Hot Springs, for example, or enjoying the year-round Christmas spirit in the town of North Pole. It’s also easy to plan a day trip to Denali here, along with other hiking havens like Angel Rocks and the White Mountains.

Overall, both cities provide a range of interesting day trips., and there’s no clear winner between them. It all depends on what kinds of experiences you’re seeking. For Arctic exploration and wild outdoor adventures in the Alaskan heartlands, pick Fairbanks. To see more of Alaska’s southern regions and coast, stick to Anchorage.

Which Is Best For Hiking And Wildlife?

Alaska is one of the premier hiking states, and hikers can have the time of their lives in and around Anchorage and Fairbanks, with so many mountains to scale, paths to tread, and vast natural expanses to explore. However, you may find that one of these cities is slightly better than the other for living out your hiking and outdoor recreation dreams.

As stated earlier, Fairbanks is better for visiting the iconic Denali National Park, widely-regarded as one of the top hiking destinations in the nation. There are also many amazing hiking spots across the Arctic Interior region of Alaska, all within easy reach of Fairbanks. Many of these places are secluded and peaceful, ideal for those looking for solitude and calm.

Anchorage, however, is arguably even better when it comes to hiking. You’ve got the choice of so many easily accessible national parks and hiking spaces, from Lake Clark to Katmai National Park. There are also many glaciers and mountain trails. Plus, with whale watching tours and bear watching opportunities galore, Anchorage is unbeatable when it comes to wildlife.

Overall, despite Fairbanks’s reputation as an awesome outdoor destination, Anchorage just about edges this competition. It’s got a wider range of hiking possibilities and wildlife experiences for visitors to enjoy. The only reasons why you might prefer Fairbanks is if you’re desperate to see the Northern Lights or if Anchorage is a little too crowded for your taste.

Which Is Best For Nightlife?

Clearly, there’s plenty to keep you occupied and entertained during the daylight hours in Anchorage and Fairbanks. But, when night falls, one of these cities is a much more exciting and dynamic place to be than the other. Unsurprisingly, in the nightlife department, Anchorage has  much more going on than Fairbanks.

As the largest city in the whole of Alaska by quite a distance, Anchorage is also the state’s premier nightlife location. There are plenty of friendly bars to check out, along with some lively dance clubs, sports bars, comedy clubs, open-air concerts during the warmer months of the year, theatrical shows, and more. In short, there’s something for everyone here.

In contrast, Fairbanks tends to feel pretty sleepy after dark. That’s not to say that you can’t find any places to dance, drink, and have fun here, but there aren’t too many options, and those that do exist don’t tend to stay open as late as they would in a bigger city, like Anchorage. So, if good nightlife is a make-or-break factor for you, pick Anchorage over Fairbanks.

Which Is Best For Shopping?

For shopping, too, Anchorage leads the way in the whole of Alaska. It’s got more shops, malls, and markets than any other city in the state, which isn’t surprising given that a little less than half of all Alaskans live here.

Places like Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall and Glenn Square offer dozens of stores and chains in one location, or you can explore other parts of the city to find massive gift shops, artisan workshops, outdoor outfitters, craft stores, jewelers, galleries, and so on. Whether you want to buy books, clothing, accessories, or something different, you’ll find it in Anchorage.

With that said, shopping in Fairbanks isn’t a bad time, either. Despite being much smaller than Anchorage, this city still has a good number of gift shops and craft stores, many of which are independently owned and have been running for decades. There are also a couple of small but pleasant malls, like Eagle Plaza.

Overall, shopaholics will undoubtedly have a better time in Anchorage, thanks to its greater variety of stores. However, if you just want to do a little souvenir shopping, Fairbanks has you covered.

Which Is Best For Food?

Food is another highlight of a trip to Alaska. There are some amazing traditional dishes to try here, with lots of pure, natural, locally-sourced ingredients filling up the menus of restaurants all over The Last Frontier. Reindeer, salmon, and crab are some of the best things to eat, but which city offers the finest dining?

Well, as you might imagine, Anchorage is seen as the best place to eat in all of Alaska. There’s a broad array of restaurants here, with plenty of traditional Alaskan eateries serving up fresh seafood, locally-reared meats, and classic home cooking. You can also find great burgers bars, Mediterranean-inspired restaurants, and other diverse menus across the city.

With its smaller size and population, Fairbanks hasn’t got quite the same level of culinary diversity as Anchorage. There are fewer options here, and prices also tend to be higher on most menus, so you’ll have to pay more to sample the best tastes of the city. However, it’s still a decent place to try Alaskan specialties like reindeer sausages and crab legs.

Overall, Anchorage takes the win in the food department. It’s got so much to offer to suit all tastes.

Which Is Best For Families?

Alaska is a magical destination for a family vacation, and Anchorage is one of the most popular places to start.

There are some super family attractions in Alaska’s biggest city, like the Anchorage Museum, the Alyeska Aerial Tramway, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. You can also enjoy outdoor fun with kids of all ages at places like Westchester Lagoon, or take a glacier cruise or whale-watching tour to wow the whole family.

With that said, Fairbanks is still a fine family destination. Pioneer Park is a terrific family attraction, teaching kids about history and Alaskan culture in a fun and quirky way, while other attractions, like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the Aurora Ice Museum can also keep you busy and entertained.

Overall, it all depends on what your family enjoys most. Anchorage has more diversity and a great mix of family fun and natural activities. It’s also bigger and more exciting to explore on foot. Fairbanks is smaller and quieter, but still has enough to occupy the average family for a few days.

Which Is Best For Couples?

The snowy Alaskan wilderness can also provide the perfect romantic setting for a couple’s vacation. But which city is more romantic and cozy for lovers between Anchorage and Fairbanks?

Well, Fairbanks is notably quieter. So, if you just want to get away from it all and enjoy small town vibes, that’s the place to be. It’s also ideal for couples who enjoy getting off-the-beaten-path and those who want to explore the rugged, raw landscapes of Alaska’s Interior. Plus, there’s nothing quite like seeing the Northern Lights with your partner by your side.

However, Anchorage is also a fantastic spot for couples, due to its museums, cultural centers, and superior shopping and dining scenes. You’ll find more ways to fill up your time here, and the scenery is just as dramatic and beautiful as that of Fairbanks, if not more so. Whether you want to hike, shop, sample local flavors, or learn all about Alaska’s culture, it’s all possible.

Overall, Anchorage is best for most couples, as it has a wider selection of activities, but if you’re purely seeking a more secluded escape or want to see the Northern Lights above all else, head to Fairbanks.

Which Is Best For Backpackers?

Alaska is an awesome state for backpacking. Its awe-inspiring wilderness calls out to the soul of backpackers and adventurers across the globe, and many people flock there each year with nothing but bags on their backs and some sturdy outdoor gear, ready to explore, hike, climb, and connect with nature.

Well, if you’re going backpacking, Fairbanks has to be high up on your list of destinations. It’s well-known as a backpacker-friendly city, with a good mix of budget-friendly accommodation options and lots of surrounding outdoor recreation areas to explore. However, prices tend to be higher here than in Anchorage, and the weather can be harsher, too.

Anchorage has the benefit of being more accessible and cheaper overall. There are more options when you’re looking for a place to stay or somewhere to eat, as well as lots of interesting and rewarding ways to spend your time. Plus, with better nightlife, it’s easier to make friends and mingle with locals or fellow travelers in Anchorage.

Overall, the best city for you will depend on what you want from your trip. Anchorage offers more diversity, better urban activities, and lower prices, but you might satisfy your cravings for adventure a little more easily in Fairbanks.

Which Is Cheapest?

Price-wise, there’s another big difference between Anchorage and Fairbanks, with the former city being notably cheaper. Perhaps due to its bigger size and broader range of hotels and eateries, Anchorage has lower prices across the board. It’s easier to find a cheap place to stay here and eat on a budget, too. Flights to this city also tend to be cheaper, along with car rentals.

So, if you’re on a tight budget, Anchorage will probably be the more appealing option for you. However, it’s still possible to have a budget-friendly stay in Fairbanks, as long as you book your accommodation and flights in advance to get the best rates.

Where To Stay According To Your Budget

Anchorage

Budget: Perched within Downtown Anchorage, Snob Hollow Inn captivates with its charm, surrounded by vibrant gardens and verdant foliage. The inn boasts a picturesque location, offering guests a serene oasis amidst the bustling cityscape. Inside, guests are welcomed into a cozy haven adorned with elegant decor and inviting ambiance.

Luxury: Residence Inn by Marriott Anchorage Midtown epitomizes modern elegance with its sleek architecture and stylish interiors. The hotel’s spacious lobby invites guests with contemporary furnishings and warm lighting, while expansive windows offer stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. Relaxing suites feature upscale amenities, promising a luxurious stay in Anchorage.

Fairbanks

Budget: Set amidst the wilderness of Fairbanks, Northern Sky Lodge exudes rustic charm with its log cabin architecture and breathtaking surroundings. Surrounded by towering spruce trees, the lodge offers panoramic views of the Alaskan landscape. Inside, cozy interiors feature wood accents and large windows, inviting guests to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.

Luxury: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks exudes contemporary charm with its striking design and expansive windows offering panoramic views of Fairbanks. Elegant interiors boast modern furnishings and soothing color palettes, creating a tranquil atmosphere for guests. The hotel’s inviting ambiance and upscale amenities promise a memorable stay in Alaska’s Golden Heart City.

Anchorage vs Fairbanks: Which Is Better?

So, if you’re hesitating between Anchorage or Fairbanks, which should you choose? Well, with both cities having so much to offer, it’s a tough choice, but you can’t really lose. Whichever city you pick, you’re guaranteed to have a super experience, with amazing scenery, friendly people, great food, and lots to do in both locations.

However, if it’s your first trip to Alaska, or if you’re eager to experience the best food, shopping, nightlife, and cultural experiences the state has to offer, there’s only one option. And that’s Anchorage. Alaska’s biggest city is a joy to discover, with intriguing museums, exciting activities day and night, and so many ways to spend your time.

Meanwhile, if you’re revisiting Alaska or want to see a different side to it, Fairbanks is absolutely worth checking out. It’s one of the top spots for those intending to see the Northern Lights, as well as being a great gateway destination for the Arctic Interior spaces. Denali is also easy to access from here, and the quieter, small town vibes make it a cozy, pleasant place to stay.