A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. Fairbanks for Couples, Food, Hiking, and Attractions

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Martha's Vineyard and Fairbanks. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a coastal, peaceful, and affluent island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Martha's Vineyard travel costs.

Fairbanks

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

Martha's Vineyard and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Martha's Vineyard. Although Martha's Vineyard and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Martha's Vineyard has more sights and attractions for tourists. Martha's Vineyard is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Martha's Vineyard is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. It is also well known for the Aquinnah Cliffs. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Martha's Vineyard different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Martha's Vineyard 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Martha's Vineyard offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Is the Food Better in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Martha's Vineyard has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Martha's Vineyard is a great choice. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Martha's Vineyard is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great city for hiking. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Martha's Vineyard is a good destination for hiking. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Is the Shopping Better in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Martha's Vineyard is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The rugged coastline and rolling hills give this area a natural beauty.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Fairbanks are nice family-friendly destinations.

Martha's Vineyard offers lots of family activities. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Martha's Vineyard makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Budget options are limited, making this an inconvenient destination for backpackers.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Martha's Vineyard is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Martha's Vineyard is a somewhat walkable island. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Martha's Vineyard?

How long in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fairbanks than Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

Even though Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Martha's Vineyard has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and shopping around the remote city of Fairbanks, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks?

Martha's Vineyard 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.

Fairbanks is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Martha's Vineyard and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks 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 Martha's Vineyard Expensive? and Is Fairbanks Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Martha's Vineyard and Fairbanks. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Martha's Vineyard this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Martha's Vineyard is a little warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Martha's Vineyard usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Martha's Vineyard gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Martha's Vineyard as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Martha's Vineyard is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Martha's Vineyard in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during winter. Martha's Vineyard can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Martha's Vineyard is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Martha's Vineyard average around 28°F (-2°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Martha's Vineyard usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Martha's Vineyard during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. Martha's Vineyard is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Martha's Vineyard