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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Fairbanks? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Saint Simons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Saint Simons 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 Simons and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Simons than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Simons is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Fairbanks is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Also, Saint Simons is famous for East Beach. 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 Simons different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Simons or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Saint Simons 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 Simons is not a skiing destination.

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

Fairbanks is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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 Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

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

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

Saint Simons has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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 Simons or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

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 Simons or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Saint Simons has a few great resort options. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

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

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

Saint Simons 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 Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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 Simons or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Simons 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 Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Is Saint Simons or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Saint Simons 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 Simons. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

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 Simons or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Saint Simons makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

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 Simons or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great destination for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island 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 Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

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

Neither Saint Simons or Fairbanks offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Public transit is quite limited 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 Simons or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable island. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

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

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

In Fairbanks, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this Arctic city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

Saint Simons 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.

Fairbanks is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

Saint Simons 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 great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and shopping around the unique destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

Saint Simons 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.

Fairbanks is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Fairbanks?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Fairbanks. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

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

Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Saint Simons 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 Simons or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. Saint Simons is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Saint Simons during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Simons is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Saint Simons 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 Simons or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during spring. In April, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Saint Simons