Apartments and Airbnb in Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks offers an unforgettable balance of urban comfort and unspoiled nature, with midnight sun adventures in summer and dazzling skies in winter. The city’s proximity to the Arctic Circle and Denali National Park makes it a launch point for wilderness excursions. Local festivals, Indigenous heritage, and quirky shops give it a character all its own. In Fairbanks, every season brings a different kind of magic.

Top areas to stay at in Fairbanks, Alaska

Downtown Fairbanks

Downtown Fairbanks offers walkable access to restaurants, galleries, and the Chena River’s scenic pathways. Rentals in Downtown Fairbanks include riverside condos, modern lofts, and Airbnbs near museums and local breweries. Visitors can attend art walks, explore Golden Heart Plaza, or enjoy winter markets. Downtown is perfect for those wanting convenience without losing Alaskan charm.

Goldstream Valley

Tucked into a birch and spruce-filled valley northwest of the city, Goldstream Valley is a haven for nature lovers. Vacation homes in Goldstream often feature large windows for aurora viewing, cozy wood stoves, and decks overlooking the wilderness. The region offers excellent opportunities for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and observing local fauna. Goldstream Valley combines seclusion with scenic beauty.

Chena Ridge

Located on a hill west of downtown, Chena Ridge offers expansive views, peaceful surroundings, and access to both urban and wild attractions. Rentals in Chena Ridge include hillside cabins, upscale homes, and unique Airbnbs with panoramic vistas. Visitors enjoy quiet evenings, moose sightings, and beautiful sunrises. Chena Ridge is ideal for families and long-term stays.

University West / UAF Area

Near the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the University West neighborhood has a vibrant yet residential feel. Accommodations range from student-friendly apartments to family homes near campus amenities. This locale presents an ideal setting for visiting academics, researchers, or travelers with a keen interest in the region's cultural heritage. This area balances community life with educational energy.

Badger Road / North Pole Vicinity

Just outside of Fairbanks, the Badger Road and North Pole area is a fun and festive escape year-round. Guests can stay in log cabins, woodland homes, or Airbnbs with Christmas-themed flair near the Santa Claus House. The neighborhood is quiet and family-friendly, with access to trails and holiday attractions.

Must-visit places and attractions in Fairbanks, Alaska

Aurora Ice Museum

Located at Chena Hot Springs Resort, the Aurora Ice Museum is the world’s largest year-round ice environment. Guests can marvel at ice sculptures, sip appletinis in an ice bar, and tour the chilly interiors. Built entirely from over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, it’s a magical experience. The museum offers a truly unique glimpse into Alaskan art and innovation.

Chena Hot Springs

A must-do for relaxation, the Chena Hot Springs offer geothermal pools, indoor spas, and a cozy lodge experience. Visitors can soak under the stars or the aurora in winter months, surrounded by snowy serenity. The resort also offers activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Chena is an ideal combination of wellness and wilderness.

Museum of the North

Located on the UAF campus, the Museum of the North features Alaskan artifacts, natural history exhibits, and contemporary Native art. Its architecture is inspired by the northern lights and mountain ranges. Guests can explore displays on Arctic wildlife, gold rush history, and geological wonders. The museum is a top educational and cultural stop.

Pioneer Park

This 44-acre park is part museum, part amusement park, and full of historical charm. Pioneer Park includes a gold rush town, vintage carousel, aviation museum, and riverboat attractions. Seasonal festivals and family events add to its appeal.

Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center

A beautifully curated center for visitor information and cultural exhibits, the Morris Thompson Center features storytelling, Native art, and free programs. Guests can learn about subsistence lifestyles, Arctic traditions, and local geography. The building itself is inviting, with large windows and interpretive displays.

Running Reindeer Ranch

An unforgettable experience, Running Reindeer Ranch offers guided forest walks with tame reindeer and educational storytelling. The tours are intimate, informative, and ideal for animal lovers and families. Visitors gain insight into reindeer care, Arctic wildlife, and Alaskan homesteading.

Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge

A favorite for birdwatchers and hikers, Creamer’s Field is a preserved wetland area that serves as a seasonal stop for sandhill cranes and other birds. Visitors can walk interpretive trails, join guided tours, or take part in nature photography. The refuge combines wildlife preservation with accessibility.

Alaska Dog Mushers Association

This organization hosts dog sled races and promotes Alaska’s mushing heritage with public events and educational programs. Visitors to the Dog Mushers Hall can meet mushers, watch races, or learn about this traditional form of Arctic transportation. The club hosts seasonal events that are both competitive and community-oriented.

Where to find a vacation rental near Fairbanks

Soldotna, Alaska

Located on the Kenai Peninsula, Soldotna is known for its world-class salmon fishing, riverfront trails, and small-town friendliness. Vacation rentals in Soldotna include cabins by the Kenai River, log homes, and cozy Airbnbs surrounded by spruce trees. Visitors can hike, fish, or take scenic drives to nearby glaciers. For a peaceful riverside retreat, relax in a house in Soldotna, where quiet trails and fishing spots lie just steps away.

Page, Arizona

Far from the tundra but visually striking, Page is home to Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and some of the Southwest’s most iconic red rock landscapes. Accommodations include desert-view lodges, modern apartments, and homes with rooftop decks for stargazing. Visitors can tour canyons, paddle the Colorado River, or hike scenic desert trails. For vivid colors and open skies, unwind in a vacation rental in Page, where every view feels like a postcard.

Grand Junction, Colorado

Surrounded by mesas, vineyards, and the Colorado National Monument, Grand Junction offers outdoor adventure with a Western twist. Vacation homes range from vineyard guesthouses to desert-view lodges and city lofts. Guests can bike scenic trails, sample wines, or visit nearby state parks. For a vibrant, sun-drenched stay, consider lodging in an apartment in Grand Junction, where landscapes and flavors are always front and center.

Valdosta, Georgia

Tucked in the southern part of the state, Valdosta offers a warm climate, cultural landmarks, and charming Southern hospitality. Rentals include historic homes, downtown apartments, and quiet suburban escapes. Visitors can tour museums, attend community events, or explore local parks. For a relaxed and cultural contrast to arctic life, stay in a vacation rental in Valdosta, where magnolias and music fill the air.

Talkeetna, Alaska

About two hours south of Fairbanks, Talkeetna is a quirky and scenic town that serves as a basecamp for Denali adventures. Vacation rentals in Talkeetna include log cabins with mountain views, riverside yurts, and rustic lodges. Guests can take flightseeing tours, visit art galleries, or enjoy live music at local pubs. For panoramic views and a colorful town vibe, book a house in Talkeetna, where glacier-fed rivers and mountain peaks frame your stay.