Welcome to Fairbanks, Alaska, a place packed with things to do, where winter transforms the area into a playground of snow, ice, and adventure. As temperatures drop and snow accumulates, winter trails appear with opportunities for dog mushing, snow mobiling, cross-country skiing and tons of fun winter adventures. Plenty of indoor activities are also available including ice skating, ice hockey, museums, and more. Winter’s crowning jewel, the aurora, is the perfect activity to round out a day full of winter fun.  

"Fairbanks, Alaska in winter is like stepping into a magical snow globe. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing big the Northern Lights (the Aurora Borealis), dog sledding through frosty trees, trying ice fishing, or bathing in a natural hot spring pool surrounded by nature, Fairbanks should be at the top of your list." —Danielle Fairbanks

Fairbanks doesn’t shut down in the winter, it’s just getting started. 

With truly endless winter activities, winter is Fairbanks’ time to shine. Here are a few top winter activities to get you started with planning your trip. For more ideas, check out our things to do and events pages. 

  • Aurora Viewing 
    Aurora viewing is a main draw to Fairbanks in the winter. From August 21-April 21, if you stay a minimum of three nights in the Fairbanks area and are actively out during the evening hours, your chances of seeing the aurora are more than 90%! Check out our Aurora Tracker to learn more about where and how to see the aurora, and be sure to book an aurora tour with a local guide.   
  • Dog Mushing
    Fairbanks has plenty of dog mushing tours, chances to meet mushers and interact with sled dogs. With some of the best dog mushing adventures in the world, Fairbanks is an amazing place to watch sled dog races and experience the amazing sport of dog mushing for yourself. 
  • Ice ArtA glowing blue ice sculpture of a large bird at the World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks, AK.
    Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to see incredible ice art. The World Ice Art Championships are a fan favorite, joined by local year-round and indoor ice museums.​  
  • ​Reindeer
    There are plenty of chances to see reindeer in the area. From drop-in viewing to in-depth excursions, there is something for everyone. Nothing beats the thrill of spending time with these incredible animals. 
  • Snowmobiling
    Experience the rush of snowmobiling with a local guide. Snowmachines-as they are most often called in Alaska-are one of the easiest ways to access the incredible snowy areas around Fairbanks.  
  • More Winter Adventures
    Fairbanks knows how to have fun in the winter. From ice fishing, sledding, curling, cross-country skiing, hot springs, and more, Fairbanks has it all.
  • Winter Events
    Fairbanks comes alive in winter with seasonal events like the Yukon Quest, World Ice Art Championships, Festival of Native Arts and the Winter Solstice Festival. Fairbanks has even hosted the Iditarod a few times!
  • Indoor Activities
    When it’s time to warm up, don’t worry, there is still plenty happening indoors. Experience exciting indoor activities including cultural programs, performances, local shops, museums, sporting events, and more.
  • Need help planning your trip? 
    Check out the Winter Guide for in-depth trip planning help. This guide showcases key attractions, expert tips for experiencing the northern lights, and much, much more! A great first stop when you arrive in Fairbanks is the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. Beautiful and informative, the Center serves as the regional visitor facility with brochures, maps and friendly knowledgeable staff with answers to all of your questions. 

Amy J. Johnson Aurora

“Located just two degrees below the Arctic near the international airport and close to the impressive Denali National Park, Fairbanks is the best place in the U.S. to take in the northern lights. It even has its own forecast system and offers tours to take visitors far from city lights.” 
— National Geographic