What to do in Fairbanks before coming to Arctic Hive (a local's list!)

Most of our Arctic Hive guests spend a night or two in Fairbanks before or after their adventure north. We get asked often for our favorite places to stay, eat, and more... so here it is!

Where to Stay
Hotel prices can fluctuate greatly, so feel free to shop around—there’s not really one “best” spot. Just make sure your lodging offers an airport shuttle. Uber and Lyft can be hit or miss in the winter, and getting a cab in Fairbanks can be what we lovingly call type 2 fun :-)

• Pike’s Waterfront Lodge — Comfortable rooms right on the river, with an on-site restaurant and trails. Closest to the airport and has a great shuttle.
• Golden North Inn — Simple, clean, locally owned, and close to the highway.
• Sven’s Basecamp Hostel — We’ve heard great things about this budget-friendly option in a great neighborhood near Pad Thai and Little Owl Café (note: closed in winter).

Iconic Fairbanks Experiences

• Griffin Park — Snap a classic photo under the antler arch downtown!
• Museum of the North — Totally worth an afternoon. The views from the parking lot can include the Alaska Range, and the museum itself is fascinating.
• Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center — Excellent intro to Athabascan culture and Interior Alaska heritage.
• Running Reindeer Ranch — Book your tour early to walk with reindeer!
• Chena Hot Springs — Over an hour from Fairbanks on a narrow back road—only drive yourself if you’re confident in winter conditions. Once you’re there, it’s a fun experience, especially if the aurora is out while you’re soaking in the outdoor pool. Tour companies offer shuttles; call the resort to ask.
• World Ice Art Championships (Feb 16–Mar 31) — One of the most unique winter events anywhere. Intricate ice sculptures, carving competitions, and family activities.
• Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum — One of the best car museums you’ll ever visit, even if you’re not “into cars.”
• Denali National Park / Alaska Railroad Winter Train — If your schedule allows, consider a day or overnight trip south via the scenic Alaska Railroad winter route.

Coffee & Treats

• Little Owl Café — My favorite local coffee shop, with two locations!
  • The College Ave location pairs perfectly with a stop at the Farmers Market (summer only) and Roaming Root Cellar (great gifts and local goods).
  • Don’t miss the lemon lavender Bundt cakes (vegan and gluten-free, but you’d never know!).
• LuLu’s Bread & Bagels — A go-to for brunch or a hearty breakfast before the drive north.
• Sunrise Bagel & Espresso — Drive-through coffee and breakfast burritos, with locations all over town. They even have soft serve ice cream!

Eats & Drinks Around Town

• GR’s Empanada House — One of my all-time favorites. Daily specials, dessert empanadas, and homemade sauces are chef’s kiss. Check hours online or call before heading over.
• East Ramp Pizza — Great sit-down spot with a view of bush planes taking off and landing. Their specials are always on point.
• The Hungry Robot — My go-to for takeout pizza.
• Pad Thai — My favorite Thai spot in town on College Ave. Great for sit-down or takeout.
• Lemongrass Thai — Everyone’s favorite Thai food; slightly pricier but their yellow curry is unbeatable.
• Soba — Excellent Eastern European comfort food (think handmade dumplings, soups, and stews).
• The Crepery — Delicious sweet and savory crepes, right downtown. Great for breakfast or lunch.
• Ivory Jack’s — Classic mushers’ bar and restaurant in the Goldstream Valley. Open late (rare in Fairbanks!). Great burgers, halibut, and ambiance.
• Pump House Restaurant — One of the nicest dinner spots in town with riverfront views and a true Alaskan feel.
• Black Spruce Brewing Company — Best craft beer in town (especially hazy IPAs!). They also serve kombucha and other NA options. 
• HooDoo Brewing Co. — Iconic brewery with great outdoor ambiance. Fantastic local brews.
• Humble Roots Beer Project — Great selection of local and NA beers, often with a food truck parked outside. Family-friendly.

Sweet Treats

• Hot Licks Ice Cream (summer only) — A Fairbanks classic! Huge portions, homemade flavors, and a line that’s part of the experience.

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Local Markets & Gifts

• Fairbanks Farmers Market (College Road, Saturdays, summer only) — Great for produce, flowers, and local crafts.
• The Roaming Root Cellar — My favorite local gift shop for Alaskan-made goods.
• AK Wood Bowl Company — Unique gifts and handmade wooden pieces from Alaskan artists (they have way more than bowls).