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Layover Ideas Fairbanks Airport FAI

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Fairbanks Airport

Having a layover at Fairbanks Airport (FAI) doesn't mean you have to be bored. There are plenty of activities and attractions nearby that you can enjoy, even if you only have 12 hours. Here are our top five suggestions:

1. Visit the Alaska Museum of the North

Located at the University of Alaska, the Museum of the North offers a fascinating insight into Alaska's diverse regions, wildlife, and Native cultures. This is a great place to spend a few hours learning about the state's rich history and natural beauty.

2. Take a Tour of a Gold Mine

Experience the thrill of Alaska's gold rush era by visiting a working gold mine. You can learn about the mining process, see an authentic gold dredge, and even try your hand at panning for gold. This is a unique experience that you won't want to miss.

3. Explore Pioneer Park

Get a taste of pioneer life at Pioneer Park, where you can explore authentic turn-of-the-century cabins, visit several museums, and shop for unique Alaskan souvenirs. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the history of the region and enjoy some leisure time.

4. Enjoy an Adventure or Ecotourism Excursion

Alaska is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there's no better way to experience it than through an adventure or ecotourism excursion. Whether you choose to take a riverboat cruise on a sternwheeler, witness a dog sledding presentation, or learn about life at an Athabascan Indian village, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

5. Experience Alaska’s Heartland / Interior

If you have a bit more time, consider a trip to Alaska’s Heartland / Interior. Here, you can see the continent’s tallest peak, Mt. McKinley, and wide expanses of tundra teeming with wildlife. Whether it’s summer’s midnight sun or the winter’s northern lights, this region offers a unique Alaskan experience.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through FAI Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of FAI's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Fairbanks airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near FAI to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have a longer layover of 12 to 48 hours at Fairbanks Airport, there are even more attractions to explore in the vicinity. Here are a few recommendations to make the most of your extended stay:

1. Discover Chena Hot Springs Resort

About an hour drive from Fairbanks, the Chena Hot Springs Resort is famous for its geothermal hot springs. You can relax in the natural hot springs or take a tour of the geothermal power plant. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

2. Visit the Santa Claus House in North Pole

The small town of North Pole is only a short drive from Fairbanks and is home to the Santa Claus House. This Christmas-themed store is open year-round and is a fun place to buy unique gifts and souvenirs. Don't forget to take a photo with the giant Santa Claus statue outside.

3. Explore Denali National Park

If you're willing to take a longer trip, Denali National Park is well worth the drive. This vast wilderness area is home to North America's tallest peak, Denali, and offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and wildlife viewing to mountaineering and dog sledding.

4. Tour the Trans-Alaska Pipeline

Learn about Alaska's oil industry by touring the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. This impressive engineering feat stretches over 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, and there are several viewing points near Fairbanks.

5. Visit the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center

Back in Fairbanks, the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center offers exhibits on the culture, wildlife, and history of Interior Alaska. It's a great place to learn more about the region and its indigenous peoples.

Updated on: November 22, 2023