Fairbanks, Alaska

While there are many awesome places to see in Alaska, Fairbanks has a special appeal. As home to many of the original aboriginal people of Alaska, Fairbanks is great place for anyone who wants to explore Alaska"s Native American culture. In fact, for anyone who is interested in any aspect of the history of Alaska, Fairbanks is an excellent point of exploration.

Prior to the construction of the Alaska Highway for travel, Fairbanks, Alaska was a mining town in the middle of one of the largest territories in the United States. When, in 1902 an Italian immigrant in Alaska discovered gold, Fairbanks became a major trading post. Now, over one hundred years later, Fairbanks boasts a diversified economy that is enhanced by oil, gas, gold and coal mining, military, tourism and the University of Alaska. Fairbanks also plays a significant role as the services hub and gateway to Alaska"s Interior and Arctic.

There is so much to do on a Fairbanks vacation. During a winter Fairbanks vacation, you can stay up late and marvel at the Northern Lights. Two-plankers, knuckle draggers and shred Betties can make some turns at Moose Mountain. If you can"t take the cold, you can get some heat at the Chena Hot Springs.

There are also some great ideas for families who are planning a Fairbanks vacation. For example, Pioneer Park is a 44-acre amusement park that commemorates Alaskan history. Let"s take a cyber trip through some of the Pioneer Park Exhibits:

Gold Rush Town:

Gold Rush town is comprised of 29 cabins from Alaska"s historic past. The Gold Rush Town office is located in Georgia Lee"s House, which was once a house of ill repute. For entertainment, check out the Golden Heart revue at the Palace Saloon.

SS Nenana:

The SS Nenana was a sternwheeler that once carried passengers along the Chena River. It is now a museum.

The Pioneer Museum:

The Pioneer Museum transports you back to the pioneer days of Fairbanks. A number of tools and household items are on display. The Big Stampede Show is in the same building. This lighted 45 minute presentation is illustrated by fifteen enormous oil paintings composed by the famous Alaskan artist C. R. "Rusty" Heurlin. A tape plays the narration, which features the voice of the late well-known Poet Laureate Ruben Gaines. The mural presentation is in a circular room that moves the guests around to see the murals, while the murals remain in place.

Once you decide to add Fairbanks to your Alaska vacation plans, you will want to book your Fairbanks flight. The Fairbanks International Airport is close to downtown Fairbanks. You can get a direct Fairbanks flight on Northwest Airlines from any of the lower 48 states. Europeans can find a Fairbanks flight on Thomas Cook powered by Condor, which is Germany"s largest leisure-oriented airline. Throughout the summer, this airline provides weekly service between Fairbanks and Frankfurt.