A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fairbanks vs. Whistler for Skiing, Hiking, Families, and Food

Should you visit Fairbanks or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Fairbanks or Whistler? 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. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Fairbanks and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fairbanks or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and small town charm, while Fairbanks is more popular for its museums and attractions and impressive beauty. Whistler is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Fairbanks is well known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Fairbanks different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fairbanks or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for winter skiing.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Whistler should be on your list. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Locals like to visit Fairbanks to take advantage of their winter sports. 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.

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

Fairbanks is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

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

Whistler has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

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

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Whistler is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Fairbanks or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Whistler specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Fairbanks or Whistler?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Fairbanks and Whistler.

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.

Whistler is a great destination for shopping. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Fairbanks or Whistler More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its scenery and 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.

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Fairbanks or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Whistler is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Fairbanks or Whistler Better for Couples?

Whistler is a very popular place for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Fairbanks or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks and Whistler are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Whistler 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

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 Whistler a more walkable city?

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

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Fairbanks?

How long in Fairbanks or Whistler?

In either Fairbanks or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Fairbanks because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Fairbanks, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

One day in Fairbanks or Whistler?

The beautiful city of Fairbanks offers museums and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Fairbanks or Whistler?

Fairbanks is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fairbanks, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the charming destination of Whistler. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Fairbanks or Whistler?

Fairbanks is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the adventurous village of Whistler. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

A week in Fairbanks or Whistler?

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Fairbanks or Whistler?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Fairbanks and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Fairbanks is around the same temperature as Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fairbanks in July average around 64°F (18°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Fairbanks usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Whistler. Fairbanks gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler 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 Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, Fairbanks is generally much colder than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Fairbanks average around 27°F (-3°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In October, Fairbanks usually receives less rain than Whistler. Fairbanks gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler 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 Whistler because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Whistler can be very cold. Fairbanks can be very cold during winter. Fairbanks is much colder than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Fairbanks averages around -9°F (-23°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Fairbanks usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Fairbanks gets 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fairbanks or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Fairbanks and Whistler. The spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In the spring, Fairbanks is much colder than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fairbanks in April average around 32°F (0°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Fairbanks usually receives less rain than Whistler. Fairbanks gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Fairbanks