How to get to Fairbanks

If you have decided to travel to Fairbanks, prepare for a visit to the "Golden Heart" of Alaska, located in a picturesque region of the USA. This city combines the spirit of the frontier with modern comfort, serving as the ideal starting point for polar expeditions and viewing the Northern Lights. Finding out how to get to Fairbanks is simple: transport accessibility is ensured by regular flights, a famous railway route, and highways.

For most travellers, the most convenient way to reach the region is by flying into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI). This is a modern air gateway that receives regular flights year-round and ensures a stable connection with the outside world.

Direct flights connect the city with several major hubs. Most often, tourists from other states in the USA and from abroad choose routes with a transfer in Seattle or Anchorage. During the summer season, when the flow of those wishing to see the beauty of Alaska increases, the number of flights rises, and direct flights from other major cities may be added.

The airport is located just 5–7 kilometres from the centre of Fairbanks. Upon arrival, getting to your hotel is effortless: guests have access to taxis, hotel transfers, and car rental offices, which is particularly relevant for those planning independent travel around the surrounding areas.

Travelling by rail is not just a way to get to Fairbanks, but a true adventure allowing you to see the pristine beauty of Alaska. The city serves as the northern terminus of the famous Alaska Railroad, connecting it to the coast and passing through the scenic territories of Denali National Park.

Trains, including popular tourist carriages with panoramic windows, arrive at the city's own railway station, located not far from the central districts. Such a journey across the vast expanses of the USA guarantees a high level of comfort and allows you to enjoy views of snow-capped mountains and forests right from a cosy seat.

Bus services connect Fairbanks with other key points in Alaska, offering travellers the opportunity to enjoy views of the wildlife without the need to drive a car themselves. The road to the city lies along picturesque highways of the USA, among which the George Parks Highway and the Richardson Highway stand out. These thoroughfares open up panoramas of the endless taiga and majestic mountain ranges.

The most popular route leads from Anchorage. During the summer season, comfortable tourist coaches and private shuttles operate between the cities. The trip takes a whole day but often includes stops at iconic places, for example, near Denali National Park. Travellers should check the schedule in advance, as the frequency of trips depends significantly on the time of year.

Travelling by car to Fairbanks is an excellent way to explore the wild nature of Alaska at your own pace. The main transport artery connecting the city with the southern coast and Anchorage is the George Parks Highway. This scenic route, approximately 580 kilometres long, passes through taiga forests and offers breathtaking views of mountain ranges, including the surroundings of Denali National Park. A trip along this route usually takes 6 to 7 hours of driving time in the summer period.

Another important route is the historic Richardson Highway, which leads to the city from the southeast. It connects Fairbanks with the port city of Valdez and the junction point of Delta Junction, where the highway meets the famous Alaska Highway. The road is distinguished by high-quality surfacing and allows you to enjoy views of the Tanana River, making the journey a comfortable and spectacular finale to a long trip.

To move around the USA and especially around Alaska, many tourists prefer to rent transport. Offices of international rental companies offering vehicles of various classes operate in the city and at the airport. Travellers should remember that in winter, road conditions become severe: ice, snow, and the polar night require special attention and, preferably, a vehicle specially prepared for low temperatures.

A trip to Fairbanks requires careful preparation, as the climatic conditions and remoteness of the region dictate their own rules. To ensure your trip to Alaska is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have compiled several important recommendations to help plan the ideal itinerary.

1. Clothing and Gear: The main principle of outfitting in Alaska is layering. In winter, when the temperature can drop below -30°C, high-quality thermal underwear, a warm fleece jacket, a down parka, windproof trousers, and specialised footwear are mandatory. In summer, the weather is changeable: it can be hot during the day, but evenings are cool, so a windbreaker and comfortable trekking boots are always necessary.
2. Transport: Although the MACS bus system operates in the city, the schedule may be limited, especially on weekends. For a full exploration of the surroundings, it is better to rent a car. In winter, ensure the car is equipped with winter tyres and a cable for heating the engine—many car parks have special electrical outlets for this purpose.
3. Finances: The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. However, keeping some cash is recommended for paying for small souvenirs, fares on some types of transport, or tipping.
4. Health and Safety: Fairbanks is a safe city, but wild nature begins literally at the doorstep. In summer, be sure to use repellents against mosquitoes, which are plentiful here. Be extremely attentive on the roads: moose often step onto the roadway, creating a serious risk of accidents, especially in the dark.
5. Communication: The main language is English. Local residents are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and they willingly help tourists. English here is clear and standard, but knowing a few greeting phrases always helps to build rapport.
6. Local Etiquette: As elsewhere in the USA, it is customary to leave tips for service staff (waiters, taxi drivers, guides) in the amount of 15–20% of the bill. Also, Alaska has an unspoken code of respect for nature: rubbish must be taken with you, and you should not approach wild animals.
7. What to Avoid: Do not rely solely on GPS and mobile reception when driving out of town. In remote areas, the signal often disappears, so a paper map is your best friend. Also, avoid walking alone in deep forests without bear protection, especially during their active season.
8. Additional Tip: If you have arrived in winter for the Northern Lights, do not limit yourself to watching from your hotel window. Download an app with a solar activity forecast and drive out of the city, away from artificial lighting—for example, towards Chena Hot Springs, where the sky is particularly dark.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday difficulties and fully focus on the amazing atmosphere of Alaska. May your journey to the "Golden Heart" of the state become an unforgettable adventure full of vivid impressions.