Fairbanks Hotels

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:

•  Pike's Waterfront Lodge: Locally owned, Pike’s is an upscale rustic Alaska lodge. 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.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks: For business travelers, this hotel puts you right in the heart of the city, with easy access (and a free shuttle) to the airport; for leisure travelers, this is a great way to get the most from Fairbanks’ city amenities year-round, and a great jumping-off point for aurora viewing late August to early April.
• 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: Conveniently located to both shopping and the airport. Enjoy all the amenities like, complimentary breakfast, indoor pool and spa, business center, exercise room, and guest laundry.
• Bear Lodge at Wedgewood Resort: Just a few minutes from downtown and you'll feel like you've found a quiet place in the wilderness.

Just Beyond Town

• A Taste of Alaska Lodge: This quant lodge feels like more of a B&B, but with all of the privacy of a hotel.