A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fairbanks vs. Vernon for Hiking, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Fairbanks or Vernon?

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

Should I visit Fairbanks or Vernon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a outdoorsy, remote, and Arctic city. You'll find world class beauty in Fairbanks as well. Other popular activities here include museums, hiking, and shopping. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vernon travel costs.

Fairbanks and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fairbanks or Vernon?

Both Vernon and Fairbanks have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Fairbanks is very popular for its skiing and impressive beauty, while Vernon attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights. Vernon is famous for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Fairbanks different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fairbanks or Vernon Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Vernon and Fairbanks.

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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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

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

Vernon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

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 Fairbanks or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Vernon is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

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 Fairbanks or Vernon Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Fairbanks and Vernon both have very good trails.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Fairbanks or Vernon?

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

Fairbanks has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Vernon is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Fairbanks or Vernon More Beautiful?

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

You'll find world class beauty in Fairbanks as well. 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.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fairbanks or Vernon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Fairbanks or Vernon.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vernon. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Fairbanks or Vernon Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Fairbanks and Vernon make for a nice place to visit.

Fairbanks is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Fairbanks or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fairbanks is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

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

Vernon 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

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 Fairbanks or Vernon a more walkable city?

Vernon is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable town. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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 Fairbanks Worth Visiting? and Is Vernon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Fairbanks?

How long in Fairbanks or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fairbanks and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fairbanks than in Vernon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Fairbanks, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fairbanks than Vernon 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 Fairbanks or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Vernon. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vernon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Fairbanks or Vernon?

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the quiet destination of Vernon. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Fairbanks or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quiet town of Vernon. 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 Fairbanks or Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the remote destination of Fairbanks. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fairbanks and Vernon, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is Vernon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vernon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vernon 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 Vernon.

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

Which is Bigger, Fairbanks or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Fairbanks and Vernon, 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 Fairbanks or Vernon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Vernon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Fairbanks as well as Vernon. Many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Vernon in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Fairbanks is cooler than Vernon in the summer. The daily temperature in Fairbanks averages around 64°F (18°C) in July, and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Fairbanks usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Fairbanks gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Fairbanks are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Fairbanks in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Fairbanks is much colder than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fairbanks in October average around 27°F (-3°C), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Fairbanks usually receives more rain than Vernon. Fairbanks gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Vernon in the Winter?

Both Vernon and Fairbanks during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Fairbanks for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Vernon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Vernon can be very cold. Fairbanks can be very cold during winter. In January, Fairbanks is generally much colder than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Fairbanks average around -9°F (-23°C), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Fairbanks usually gets less rain in January than Vernon. Fairbanks gets 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Fairbanks and Vernon. The spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. Fairbanks is much colder than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Fairbanks averages around 32°F (0°C) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Fairbanks usually receives less rain than Vernon. Fairbanks gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vernon and Fairbanks