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For a relatively small town in a far northern location, you may not expect the quality of Fairbanks lodging to be as high as it is. But come visit: Fairbanks hotels feature lots of amenities, attentive service, and unique touches to make your stay here memorable. First, you’ll want to decide whether to stay Downtown or near the Airport and Chena River.
Fairbanks Airport & Chena River Hotels
This is the other main cluster of quality Fairbanks lodging, which lies near the airport along the banks of the Chena River. These Fairbanks hotels have more of a secluded feel. It’s easy to believe you’re away at a resort rather than staying in the city. Take the walking path along the river in the long summer nights or explore the gardens—they all have with flowers that grow big in the long Fairbanks sun. Here’s where to stay:
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Pike's Waterfront Lodge : Locally owned by state legislator Jay Ramras, Pike’s is an upscale rustic Alaska lodge. Here you’ll find unique décor, along with most extensive display of original Alaskan art in a private setting. Sit down to eat at the great restaurant, or stroll around the gardens and check out the ducks. Or just sit out on the deck by the river with a book or a drink. -
Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge : This large hotel along the river feels like a wilderness lodge, and boasts the consistent quality and service that has earned Princess a stellar reputation. Sit out on the riverside deck, or take in the water view from your room. -
River's Edge Resort : For those who want to stay along the banks of the river but crave a bit more intimacy, choose this Fairbanks hotel: you’ll get your own private cottage. There’s fine dining and casual dining, or just relax on the expansive deck overlooking the water. -
Sophie Station Hotel : This all-suite Fairbanks hotel isn’t on the river, but it’s perfect for those who need some extra space and the convenience of being near the airport. Sit down to a breakfast with unique items, peruse the library with its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and stretch out in the oversized leather furniture.
Downtown
These offer easy access to shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Here are our suggestions:
- Westmark Fairbanks: The newest, largest downtown Fairbanks hotel is the Westmark Fairbanks. Owned by the cruise line Holland America, the Westmark features a contemporary look and feel, along with spacious rooms and two restaurants.
- Bridgewater Hotel: If you want to stay in the heart of downtown but want a smaller, locally-owned Fairbanks hotel with a personal feel and quaint touches like bamboo furniture, stay at the Bridgewater.
- Wedgewood Resort A mile from downtown Fairbanks, the Wedgewood offers all large suites (good value for large groups) and sits on 27 acres of gardens and walking paths. The Alaska Bird Observatory is on premises, while Creamer's Field bird sanctuary is an easy walk away.
- Holiday Inn Express Fairbanks: Brand-new 106-room hotel conveniently located close to both shopping and the airport. Enjoy all the amenities like an indoor pool and spa, business center, exercise room, and guest laundry.
Read about why you would want to stay downtown or near the river...
Expert Advice
Jump to Town: Fairbanks Airport & Chena River Hotels | Downtown Fairbanks
Fairbanks Airport & Chena River Hotels //Access to Fairbanks river walk • Close to airport
Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge
Set on the banks of the Chena River, the 325-room Fairbanks Princess Hotel boasts all the atmosphere of a wilderness lodge, yet it’s also one of the city’s most luxurious properties. It’s also conveniently located, close to the airport, shops, and restaurants. You can take a shuttle downtown to enjoy the sites, or enjoy walking around the various gardens and trails on the lodge property. When it is time to dine, enjoy the elegant Edgewater Restaurant, or the more casual Trackers Restaurant.
Pikes Waterfront Lodge
Pike’s Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks sits along the banks of the beautiful Chena River. Inside, you’ll find comfortable accommodations; outside are beautiful gardens and a greenhouse growing lettuce, strawberries, and tomatoes. Dine inside, or out on the waterfront deck. The hotel also has Wi-fi, to help you stay connected while on vacation.
River’s Edge Resort
This resort is a collection of private cottages set along the scenic Chena River. The owners wanted to create a private experience that was also conveniently located, and that encouraged guests to experience the outdoors. River’s Edge Resort does just that. The location is not far from town, but just outside each cottage guests can take a walk along the river or enjoy the floral displays across the property.
Sophie Station Suites
A part of the locally owned Fountainhead Hotel Group. Sophie Station Suites has 149 suites that are perfect for business travelers or vacationing families. All are one-bedroom units and come with a balcony and full kitchen. And if you don’t want to cook, you can get all three meals at the restaurant, Zach’s.
Alpine Lodge
A convenient location (just ¼ mile from the Fairbanks airport), an award-winning restaurant, and affordable rates make the 115-room Alpine Lodge a top choice for lodging in this northern Alaska city. You’ll find a contemporary aesthetic inside this unique hotel, which opened in 2007—there are timber-frame entrances, copper-etched front desks, and paintings from More...
Downtown Fairbanks //Close to downtown shopping & restaurants
Bear Lodge at Wedgewood Resort
You're just a few minutes from downtown Fairbanks and all the major shopping sights, but at this 157-room resort hotel—part of the city’s renowned Fountainhead Hotels family— you’ll feel like you've found a quiet place in the wilderness.
Bridgewater Hotel
Situated in downtown Fairbanks, this property blends the atmosphere of an intimate, European inn with the amenities of a much larger hotel. Fountainhead Hotels is a locally owned and independent company, and the Bridgewater is its most intimate property. Every morning, wake up to the breakfast buffet of fresh fruit and reindeer sausage.
Westmark Fairbanks Hotel
Modern and stylish, the Westmark Fairbanks Hotel is conveniently situated in downtown Fairbanks. The hotel boasts 400 guest rooms, yet provides the personal service of a small hotel. Features include spacious rooms, a fitness center, two new restaurants, and free Wi-Fi. Relax in your room or go for a stroll through the hotel’s fresh herb garden.
Wedgewood Resort
Set outside of the downtown bustle in a naturally wooded environment, the resort’s lodge-style buildings are spread out across 30 acres. Walk the meandering paths, which are punctuated by flower gardens, or explore an old miner’s cabin. Inside the hotel, the "home-suite-home" 1- and 2-bedroom suites are a great option for groups and families.
Holiday Inn Express - Fairbanks
Located just north of downtown Fairbanks, the Holiday Inn Express Fairbanks is close to both shopping and the airport. You’ll be able to enjoy all the amenities like an indoor pool and spa, business center, exercise room, and guest laundry.
Springhill Suites Fairbanks
Overlooking the Chena River, the 140-room SpringHill Suites Fairbanks gives you creature comforts such as mini-refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and wet bar. You’re also close to the shops and restaurants downtown, as well as Fairbanks sights such as the Santa Claus House, the Fairbanks Ice Museum and Pioneer Park. Each morning enjoy a complimentary breakfast before you depart for the day.
