The best things to do in Fairbanks

“Swap your usual boreal stroll for a guided natural history walk where reindeer mingle alongside you, and pick up real-deal facts about life in the cold. Running Reindeer Ranch also does reindeer yoga and summer music nights, which feels very Fairbanks in the best way.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Need a five-minute nerd-out between errands this week? Alyeska Pipeline / Viewing Point lets you eyeball an above-ground section of Alaska’s oil pipeline and get a feel for the project that shaped the Interior... perfect for a quick brain refresh or impressing that visiting cousin.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Whether your kid is eyeing Rocket League glory or you just want a crash course in Texas Hold'em, Gamer's Lounge & Player's Academy teaches PC, PS5, Switch, and Meta Quest 2 VR in a structured, supportive vibe. Book a lesson or gather friends for a private party and get playing this week.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Arctic Sun VR is Fairbanks’ spot for free-roam mayhem, clever VR escape rooms, and grin-inducing racing and flight sims, including a 400-square-foot arena with haptic vests. Grab a couple friends or the whole crew, pick an experience, and turn a random weeknight into co-op chaos you’ll actually talk about tomorrow.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Fairbanks Golf Course packs nine holes of par-36 fun into the foothills, with two natural lakes, tight birch-lined fairways, and big, rolling, well-bunkered greens. Warm up at the driving range, take a lesson with PGA pro James, then reward the effort at Greens Bar and Grill, because a good round deserves good grub.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, September 15, 2026

“, with a driving range for quick tune-ups and a virtual simulator when winter digs in. Post-round, grab pizza or Southern barbecue, then plan leagues or events with friends who swear they don’t slice.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Chena Bend Golf Course runs along the Chena River with several water-kissing holes, an 18-hole par-72 track, and a 24-hour driving range on the farthest north military course. Multiple-time Golf Digest No. 1 in Alaska, with a grill and bar for post-round burgers and decompression.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Craving a mid-August cool-down? Dive into the videos and photo gallery from World Ice Art Championships - Ice Alaska, then sign up to volunteer or become a member so you’re first to the chisels when the 2027 competitions kick off.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, August 26, 2026

“If you need a midweek reset, Riverboat Discovery runs a three-hour tour on an authentic steamboat with a bush pilot demonstration, a pass by Trail Breaker Kennel, reindeer cameos, and a stop at Chena Village where Athabascan traditions come alive. Five generations powering local stories.”

From the Fairbanks newsletter, August 30, 2026