A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Augustine vs. Fairbanks for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Augustine 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.

Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is a colonial, historic, and notable city. Saint Augustine offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Saint Augustine travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a Arctic, unique, and outdoorsy city. The famous beauty of Fairbanks is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Saint Augustine and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Augustine than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Augustine is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Fairbanks is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Saint Augustine is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States. Also, Saint Augustine is famous for the Colonial Quarter. 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 Saint Augustine different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Saint Augustine 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.

Saint Augustine is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

Saint Augustine is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Saint Augustine offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's history is brought to life with many monuments and museums. The Lightner Museum, the Old Jail Museum, the Lincolnville Museum, and Castillo De San Marcos are among the city's most notable sights. Also worth a visit is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.

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.

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

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

Saint Augustine has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene is influenced by the long history of the city. You'll find flavors that are influenced by Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. There are several popular dishes around town such as fried shrimp, clam chowder, and shrimp and grits.

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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine. There are wineries, pubs, live music venues, and a number of activities that take advantage of the outdoor setting.

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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

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

Saint Augustine is considered a top beach destination. Head to the beach to relax and swim. There are miles of sandy beach nearby, with some of the most popular being Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its golf courses, Vilano Beach, with its charming atmosphere, and the scenic Anastasia State Park.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Saint Augustine offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. As the longest running, continuously occupied city in the United States, the Historic Downtown is at the heart of the city. It's filled with quaint restaurants, historic hotels, and charming streets. You can take carriage rides or wander through the historic sites. Many of the buildings date back to the 1700s and offer a glimpse into Florida's past.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Augustine is not a hiking destination.

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.

Saint Augustine is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine. The Historic Downtown has unique art galleries and boutiques. St. George Street is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir and Aviles Street is the oldest street in the United States. It's also filled with artisan boutiques. Plaza de la Constitución is known for its long running public market and it often has live entertainment.

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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Fairbanks is one of the main draws. 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.

Saint Augustine is a beautiful place to visit, too. Colonial architecture and a charming atmosphere give this historic town a unique beauty.

Is Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Saint Augustine is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Augustine. Kids will love the Alligator Farm but there's also a surprisingly fascinating archaeological park - The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The Colonial Quarter is fun for all ages as well, as is a visit to Fort Castillo De San Marcos. If you have some time, head outside of town to the Marineland Dolphin Adventure, which is well worth the trip.

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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Saint Augustine makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The Ancient City has a charm that is unique in Florida. There is beautiful architecture and a historical atmosphere that is romantic and genuine. You can enjoy a carriage ride and then sample some local cuisine before heading to the beach.

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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great destination for backpackers. However, Saint Augustine is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Saint Augustine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel in town as well as a couple of affordable inns.

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

Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine. The Old Town Trolley travels through the historic center. There's also a bus service through the region, but you really need a private vehicle to explore everything.

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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Saint Augustine is a very walkable destination. It's one of the more walkable cities in the area. Downtown, Uptown, and even near the beach have accessible areas with sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones.

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 Saint Augustine Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Saint Augustine?

How long in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Augustine or Fairbanks. In our opinion, Saint Augustine has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint Augustine than Fairbanks. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Augustine, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine.

One day in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Saint Augustine. 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.

The outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colonial destination of Saint Augustine. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Fairbanks offers museums and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colonial city of Saint Augustine. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

Saint Augustine is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Saint Augustine. When comparing the sizes of Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks?

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 Saint Augustine or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Augustine as well as Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Saint Augustine in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Saint Augustine is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 82°F (28°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Saint Augustine receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Augustine usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Saint Augustine gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Saint Augustine are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Augustine 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. Saint Augustine is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Augustine averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Saint Augustine usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Saint Augustine gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Saint Augustine is June to November.

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Saint Augustine during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Augustine because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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, Saint Augustine is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Augustine in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Saint Augustine usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Saint Augustine gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Augustine and Fairbanks. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint Augustine 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, Saint Augustine is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 68°F (20°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Saint Augustine usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Saint Augustine gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Augustine.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Saint Augustine