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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Fairbanks can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a lively, vibrant, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fairbanks. Although Tallahassee and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Fairbanks has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fairbanks is very popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Fairbanks is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights. It is also well known for The Northern Lights. Tallahassee is famous for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tallahassee or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a skiing destination.


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

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital 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 Tallahassee or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tallahassee and Fairbanks can be difficult as they are each reasonable in their own way.

Tallahassee may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as 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 Tallahassee or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

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 Tallahassee or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is great for hiking. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

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

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

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 Tallahassee or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Tallahassee or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Both Tallahassee and Fairbanks are nice to visit with kids.

Tallahassee offers lots of family activities. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

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 Tallahassee or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a city with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Tallahassee or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.


Is Tallahassee or Fairbanks Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Tallahassee is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Fairbanks is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Fairbanks

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

Tallahassee is generally not a very walkable city. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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 Tallahassee Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Tallahassee or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fairbanks due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fairbanks than Tallahassee 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.


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Fairbanks? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Fairbanks 2-4

One day in Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Tallahassee. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tallahassee has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the unique city of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Tallahassee. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the vibrant city of Tallahassee. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The unique city of Fairbanks offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

Tallahassee 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Fairbanks. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Fairbanks or Tallahassee?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Tallahassee Prices
    USA Prices
    Fairbanks Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tallahassee $190
    Fairbanks $318

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $190, while the average daily cost in Fairbanks is $318. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tallahassee and Fairbanks in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Fairbanks $154
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Fairbanks $308
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Fairbanks

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee or Fairbanks? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Tallahassee


Hotels in Fairbanks


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Fairbanks Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Fairbanks $66

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Fairbanks

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Fairbanks:


  • Full Tank of Gas
    $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

Prices for flights to both Fairbanks and Tallahassee change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tallahassee $82
    Fairbanks $109

Typical Food Prices in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two at Pike's Landing
    $63
  • Totem Inn Breakfast for Two
    $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Aurora Viewing and Dinner : $120
  • Late Night Yurt Dinner and Northern Lights: $210
  • "Aurora Ice" - Ice Fishing & Salmon Dinner Tour: $239
  • Best Northern Lights Aurora Adventure FREE Portraits & Hot Pizza : $270
  • Northern Lights Adventure with Photos & HOT PIZZA: $300
  • Moonlight Dog Sled, Dinner & Northern Lights: $320

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Fairbanks $65

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $108
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $215
  • Treacherous Tallahassee Ghost Tours: $24

Typical Entertainment Prices in Fairbanks

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Fairbanks's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • The Riverboat Discovery Trip
    $55
  • 1 Day Mountain Bike Rental
    $27
  • Canoe Rental with Pickup
    $56

Tours and Activities in Fairbanks

For Fairbanks, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska: $150
  • 1 Hour Fall Sled Dog Experience in Two Rivers: $130
  • 1 Hour Snowmobile Adventure in Boreal Forest: $159
  • 1.5-Hour Beer and Puppies Guided Experience in Fairbanks: $58
  • 3 Hour Ice Fishing Experience: $145
  • 3-Hour Small Group 9-Hole Self-Guided Fairbanks Golf Experience: $114
  • Alaska: Private Northern Lights Viewing Tour: $495
  • Alaskan Heritage and Sightseeing Tour in Fairbanks: $165
  • Arctic Circle Adventure: Journey on the Dalton Highway: $275
  • Arctic Circle Day Tour Adventure: $299
  • Arctic Circle Full-Day Adventure from Fairbanks: $285
  • Aurora Chaser Tour: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Fairbanks $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallahassee

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tallahassee:

  • Tallahassee Bar Crawl: $15


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Fairbanks?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Tallahassee is much warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Fairbanks 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Fairbanks. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Tallahassee is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallahassee in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Fairbanks 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In January, Tallahassee is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 51°F (11°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Fairbanks -9°F (-23°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Tallahassee during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the spring. Tallahassee is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Fairbanks 32°F (0°C)

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Fairbanks
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) -9°F (-23°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) -2°F (-19°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 32°F (0°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 50°F (10°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 62°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 4°F (-15°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) -5°F (-21°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)