Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center

To discover more about Alaska Native culture in Fairbanks, spend some time in the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. The center has a variety of films, talks, and exhibits that document the history of different communities, and showcase their contributions to life in the city in modern times. The center also houses the Alaska Public Lands Information Center, including world-class exhibits of Alaska’s four seasons and stunning displays of Alaska Native art. Admission is free and the center is open year-round.

University of Alaska Museum of the North

The University of Alaska Museum of the North is a must-see attraction for Fairbanks first-timers. The museum showcases stories from people and places in Alaska, has award-winning exhibitions, and a souvenir shop bursting with special local treats. Be sure to stop by The Place Where You Go To Listen exhibit – a sound and light display driven by the real-time position of the moon and sun. The museum is home to the Gallery of Alaska, which examines the geology, history, and unusual aspects of each region of the state. Its most famous exhibit is Blue Babe, a 36,000-year-old bison found preserved in the permafrost by Fairbanks-area miners. In the museum theater, special programs are shown throughout the day, including an amazing multimedia presentation on the northern lights.

Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

Motorheads rejoice, this auto museum is home to several one-of-a-kind vintage cars. Visitors can browse the display models, taking in the stylish fashion of the mannequins, and learning about the automobile’s (literal) journey over the years. Children under 5 can enter the museum for free.