8-Day Autumn Adventure in Fairbanks, Alaska: A Complete Itinerary for a Group of 14

Day 1: Arrival in Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska on October 18, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cookie Jar

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Cookie Jar, famous for its homemade pastries and delicious comfort food.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Fairbanks Museum and Visitors Center

Learn about the vibrant culture and history of Fairbanks through interactive exhibits and displays.
USD10, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Pita Place

Enjoy a fresh and healthy lunch with Mediterranean flair at The Pita Place, offering a variety of flavorful pitas and salads.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Pioneer Park

Stroll through Pioneer Park, where you can enjoy historical exhibits and shops reflecting Fairbanks' heritage.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Check into your accommodation

Get settled in your lodging to freshen up before dinner. Choose from hotels like the Fairbanks Inn or local lodges.
VARIES, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Chena's Alaskan Grill

Indulge in Alaskan cuisine at Chena's Alaskan Grill, where you can try fresh seafood and local game dishes.
USD30, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Stargazing at the Aurora Sky Station

If conditions are right, head to the Aurora Sky Station for a magical evening of stargazing and potentially witnessing the Northern Lights.
USD20, 2 hours
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Day 2: Denali National Park Trip

Denali National Park, Alaska on October 19, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day trip.
Included, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Denali National Park

Drive or take a guided bus tour to Denali National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
USD50, 2 hours

10:00 AM

Denali Park Bus Tour

Take a narrated bus tour into the park to spot wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views of Denali Mountain.
USD40, 4 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at the Denali Park Visitor Center

Grab a casual lunch at the visitor center café with beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Short Hike in Denali

Go for a short hike on one of the well-marked trails that showcase Alaska's breathtaking beauty.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Fairbanks

Head back to Fairbanks after an adventurous day at Denali.
USD50, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Salmon Bake

Experience Fairbanks’ iconic salmon bake with delicious grilled salmon, wholesome sides, and live music.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Relaxation and Nature

Fairbanks, Alaska on October 20, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at McCafferty's

Start your day with a classic diner breakfast at McCafferty's, known for its generous portions and friendly service.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North

Explore the rich natural and cultural history of Alaska through engaging exhibits.
USD15, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Creamer’s Field

Take a picnic lunch at Creamer’s Field Historic Area while enjoying views of migrating birds and beautiful landscapes.
USD10, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Nature Walk at Creamer’s Field

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the nature trails at Creamer's Field, observing local wildlife and scenic vistas.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Relax at the Hot Springs

Unwind at the Chateau Saum Hot Springs for a soothing soak in natural hot springs.
USD30, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Pump House

Savor a unique dining experience with dishes prepared from local ingredients in a historic setting at The Pump House.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Chena Hot Springs Excursion

Chena Hot Springs, Alaska on October 21, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at A Taste of Saigon

Enjoy a Vietnamese breakfast that provides a great boost for your day at Chena Hot Springs.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Chena Hot Springs

Travel approximately an hour to Chena Hot Springs to enjoy this beautiful geothermal area.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Relax in the Hot Springs

Spend the day soaking in the famous hot springs rich in minerals and known for their rejuvenating properties.
USD15, 4 hours

3:00 PM

Ice Museum Tour

Take a fascinating tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, where you can marvel at beautiful ice sculptures and enjoy beverages served in the ice bar.
USD20, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Fairbanks

Head back to Fairbanks after a rejuvenating day at Chena Hot Springs.
USD20, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Alaska Salmon Bake

Enjoy a traditional Alaskan meal with fresh salmon and seasonal sides in a cozy outdoor setting.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Experiences in Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska on October 22, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Bread Line

Indulge in a delicious breakfast with freshly baked goods and local ingredients at The Bread Line.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center

Explore intriguing exhibits and cultural activities that celebrate Alaska’s Indigenous peoples.
USD20, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Rice Bowl

Try a delicious Asian fusion meal at The Rice Bowl, known for their fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Fairbanks Arts Association

Visit local art galleries to learn about Fairbanks' cultural art scene and meet local artists.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Option to go dog sledding

Experience the thrill of dog sledding on a nearby glacier (available seasonally). Be sure to check availability!
USD150, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Silver Gulch Brewing & Bottling

End your trip with a delicious dinner and locally brewed beers at this popular restaurant.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 6: Leisure Day in Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska on October 23, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Green Door

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at The Green Door featuring organic options and freshly squeezed juices.
USD12, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit the Fairbanks Community Museum

Explore this community-driven museum showcasing local art, artifacts, and stories that define Fairbanks.
USD8, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Deli

Savor a delicious sandwich or salad made from fresh, local ingredients at The Deli.
USD12, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Attend a local workshop or craft fair

Check out community calendar for local art or food workshops happening in Fairbanks.
Varies, 2-3 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at Toolik Lake

Spend a quiet afternoon at Toolik Lake, enjoying the serene beauty and reflecting at the water's edge.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Blue Loon

Visit The Blue Loon for a laid-back atmosphere and enjoy dishes that highlight Alaskan fresh seafood.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to North Pole

North Pole, Alaska on October 24, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a great breakfast at your hotel before your adventure to the North Pole.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to North Pole

Travel approximately 20 minutes to the festive town of North Pole, known for its year-round Christmas spirit.
Free, 30 minutes

9:30 AM

Visit Santa Claus House

Explore the Santa Claus House, where you can meet Santa, buy souvenirs, and see the festive decorations.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

North Pole Christmas Village

Wander through the charming Christmas Village filled with shops and decorations that celebrate the holiday spirit.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Bakery at The North Pole

Enjoy lunch at The Bakery, offering delicious treats and light fare perfect for a festive day.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Head back to Fairbanks

Return to Fairbanks, reflecting on the fun experiences of the North Pole.
Free, 30 minutes

3:00 PM

Visit the Fairbanks Ice Museum

Marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and learn about ice carving in this fascinating museum.
USD20, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Asian Grill

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Asian Grill, featuring a variety of traditional and fusion Asian dishes.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Departure from Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska on October 25, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy one last breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Check-out and Departure

Check-out of your accommodation, packing up your wonderful memories from Fairbanks.
VARIES, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Last-minute shopping

Grab some souvenirs and local crafts at the Fairbanks Market before you leave.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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