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

Should you visit Detroit or Fairbanks?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Detroit travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a remote, Arctic, and unique city. Fairbanks is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and hiking. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Detroit and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Detroit or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit. Although Detroit and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Detroit has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Detroit is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Fairbanks is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Detroit or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

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

Fairbanks is a fun local destination for snow skiers. 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.

Detroit is not a skiing destination.

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Detroit and Fairbanks.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Fairbanks. 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 Detroit or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Detroit is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

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 Detroit or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

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

Detroit has a large number of nightlife venues. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit or Fairbanks Better for Music?

Detroit is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is Detroit or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Fairbanks?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Detroit and Fairbanks.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Many visitors go to Fairbanks to go 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 Detroit or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Detroit or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Detroit and Fairbanks are both good destinations for the whole family.

Detroit is a family-friendly city. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

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 Detroit or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Fairbanks is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Fairbanks makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Detroit or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Detroit is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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 Detroit or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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 Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Detroit or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fairbanks due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fairbanks than Detroit 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 Fairbanks.

One day in Detroit or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Detroit. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Fairbanks, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Detroit or Fairbanks?

You'll find live music and food around the overlooked destination of Detroit. 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.

In Fairbanks, you'll find museums and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fairbanks has to offer.

Five days in Detroit or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the under-rated city of Detroit. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Detroit or Fairbanks?

Detroit 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Fairbanks. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Detroit and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Fairbanks would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fairbanks than you might in Detroit.

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

Which is Bigger, Detroit or Fairbanks?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Detroit 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 Detroit 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 Detroit or Fairbanks in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Detroit is a little warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Detroit in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In July, Detroit usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Detroit or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Detroit during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, 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 October, Detroit is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 54°F (12°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Detroit usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Detroit or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Fairbanks. The winter months attract visitors to Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Detroit can be very cold. Detroit is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Detroit usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Detroit or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Fairbanks. The activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In the spring, Detroit is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Detroit in April average around 49°F (9°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

Detroit usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Detroit