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

Should you visit Islamorada or Fairbanks?

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

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

Islamorada

Islamorada is a tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Islamorada travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come to Fairbanks because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Islamorada and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Fairbanks is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Islamorada is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. 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 Islamorada different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Islamorada is not a skiing destination.

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.

Islamorada is not a skiing destination.

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

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Islamorada or Fairbanks.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Fairbanks offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Islamorada or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Islamorada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

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 Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

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

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Islamorada. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

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 Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few good snorkeling spots. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Islamorada is a very popular place for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Islamorada is considered a top beach destination. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great city for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Fairbanks for the hiking trails. 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.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Fairbanks?

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Fairbanks both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Fairbanks offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Islamorada or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Fairbanks because of it's amazing beauty. 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 Islamorada is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Striking blue water and white sand make this a truly tropical paradise. You can sip frozen drinks and relax in the sun as your troubles slip away.

Is Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Islamorada 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, Islamorada is a very family-friendly destination. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

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 Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Islamorada makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

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 Islamorada or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Fairbanks is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

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

Neither Islamorada or Fairbanks offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

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 Islamorada or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Neither Islamorada or Fairbanks are walkable places.

Islamorada is not a very walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Islamorada or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Islamorada due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the village of Islamorada. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

With museums and shopping around the remote city of Fairbanks, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Fairbanks?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing destination of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Fairbanks, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Islamorada or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the adventurous village of Islamorada. 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 great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

Fairbanks, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Fairbanks?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fairbanks is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Islamorada or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area 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. Islamorada is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Islamorada receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Should I visit Islamorada or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada 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. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Islamorada or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Islamorada during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Islamorada usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Islamorada