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

Should you visit San Diego 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 San Diego 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.

San Diego

San Diego is a relaxed, outdoorsy, and idyllic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See San Diego travel costs.

Fairbanks

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

San Diego and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although San Diego and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is San Diego different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, San Diego is not a skiing destination.

Fairbanks is a fun local destination for snow skiers. 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.

San Diego is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Diego or Fairbanks?

San Diego 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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 San Diego or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

San Diego has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

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

San Diego has a large number of nightlife venues. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both San Diego and Fairbanks, and they are superb.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Fairbanks is a popular spot for hiking. 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 San Diego or Fairbanks?

If you're looking to go shopping, San Diego and Fairbanks both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Many visitors go to Fairbanks to go 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 San Diego or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Is San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Families?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city 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, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is San Diego or Fairbanks Better for Students?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Fairbanks is not popular with students.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

San Diego 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you 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 San Diego or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either San Diego or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in San Diego due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for San Diego, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in San Diego or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Fairbanks. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 San Diego or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of San Diego. 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 coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and shopping around the remote destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the outdoorsy coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the Arctic city of Fairbanks. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in San Diego or Fairbanks?

San Diego 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 choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, San Diego or Fairbanks?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Diego and Fairbanks. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, San Diego is a little warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Diego in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In July, San Diego usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. San Diego gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Diego or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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 October, San Diego is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 68°F (20°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

San Diego usually gets less rain in October than Fairbanks. San Diego gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and San Diego are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Diego 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. San Diego is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 57°F (14°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, San Diego usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. San Diego gets 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Diego or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and San Diego during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In the spring, San Diego is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Diego in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

San Diego usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. San Diego gets 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and San Diego