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

Should you visit Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Sarasota 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.

Sarasota and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Fairbanks?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarasota. Although Sarasota and Fairbanks are both popular with visitors, Sarasota has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sarasota is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Fairbanks is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sarasota is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. It is also home to the John and Mable Ringling Museum. Fairbanks is popular for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Sarasota different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a skiing destination.

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

Sarasota 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.

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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 Sarasota or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Sarasota is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

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 Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

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

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is great for hiking. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Fairbanks?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

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 Sarasota or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its 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.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Sarasota is an amazing 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, Sarasota is a very family-friendly destination. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

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 Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Sarasota and Fairbanks both good destinations for a couple.

Sarasota makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Fairbanks is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Sarasota or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination 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.

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

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

Sarasota 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 Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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 Sarasota or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Sarasota is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Sarasota is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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 Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

One day in Sarasota or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sarasota. 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 beautiful city of Fairbanks offers museums and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Sarasota. 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.

Fairbanks is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fairbanks, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the entertaining city of Sarasota. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Fairbanks is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Fairbanks?

Sarasota is a popular choice for travelers. 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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 comparing the travel costs between Sarasota and Fairbanks, we can see that Sarasota 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 Sarasota Expensive? and Is Fairbanks Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Fairbanks?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Fairbanks. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sarasota is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sarasota in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Sarasota gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sarasota or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Sarasota for the shopping scene. 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, Sarasota is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 76°F (24°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Sarasota usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Sarasota or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Sarasota 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. Sarasota is much warmer than Fairbanks in the winter. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sarasota or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Sarasota during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the beaches 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, Sarasota is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sarasota in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 32°F (0°C).

Sarasota usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Sarasota