A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Fairbanks for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Arlington or Fairbanks?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Fairbanks, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Arlington travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a remote, Arctic, and unique city. Fairbanks is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Arlington and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Arlington or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arlington. Although Arlington and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Arlington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arlington is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, and nightlife, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Arlington is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. It is also well known for Arlington National Cemetery. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Arlington different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fairbanks and Arlington. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Arlington is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Fairbanks for snow skiing. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Arlington is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arlington or Fairbanks?

Arlington is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Arlington offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Fairbanks is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

Is the Food Better in Arlington or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Arlington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Arlington is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Arlington has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Fairbanks?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Arlington and Fairbanks.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Fairbanks is a great destination for shopping. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Arlington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Fairbanks is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city offers access to Alaska's interior, as well as the Arctic. The scenery is spectacular and the wildlife is abundant. Fairbanks is also the best place in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. They are best seen between the months of August and April.

Arlington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Arlington and Fairbanks are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Arlington is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Arlington and Fairbanks are both nice to visit as a couple.

Arlington is a good city for couples to visit. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington and Fairbanks are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Students?

Arlington is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Fairbanks is not popular with students.

Arlington is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Arlington is top-notch. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Arlington or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Arlington is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Fairbanks is not a walkable city. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Arlington or Fairbanks. In our opinion, Arlington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arlington than Fairbanks. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Arlington than Fairbanks. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Arlington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Arlington than Fairbanks. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Arlington that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Fairbanks if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Arlington.

One day in Arlington or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Arlington. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Fairbanks. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Arlington. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Arlington. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the unique city of Fairbanks. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Arlington or Fairbanks?

Arlington is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fairbanks is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Arlington and Fairbanks, we can see that Arlington is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arlington Expensive? and Is Fairbanks Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Arlington or Fairbanks?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Fairbanks, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Arlington or Fairbanks?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arlington or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arlington in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Arlington is a little warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Arlington usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Arlington or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Arlington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arlington for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In the autumn, Arlington is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arlington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Arlington usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Arlington or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Fairbanks. The winter months attract visitors to Arlington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the winter. The weather in Arlington can be very cold. In January, Arlington is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 35°F (1°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Arlington usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Arlington or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Fairbanks. Additionally, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. Arlington is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Arlington usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Arlington