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

Should you visit Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a charming, quaint, and well-preserved town. Williamsburg offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Williamsburg travel costs.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a Arctic, unique, and outdoorsy city. The famous beauty of Fairbanks is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, hiking, and shopping. See Fairbanks travel costs.

Williamsburg and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Williamsburg. Although Williamsburg and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Williamsburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Williamsburg is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Williamsburg is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. It is also well known for Colonial Williamsburg. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Williamsburg different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

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

Williamsburg is not a skiing destination.

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

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Williamsburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for its Old Town?

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

Williamsburg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Fairbanks does not have a historic old town.

Is Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks More Beautiful?

Fairbanks is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Is Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Williamsburg is an amazing town 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, Williamsburg is a very family-friendly destination. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

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

Williamsburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fairbanks is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.

Is Williamsburg or Fairbanks Better for Students?

Williamsburg is an amazing town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Fairbanks is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Williamsburg. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

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

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

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

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable town. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.

One day in Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Williamsburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 unique 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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and food around the quaint destination of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town 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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic town of Williamsburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and shopping around the Arctic 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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

Williamsburg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Fairbanks. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Williamsburg is a little warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Williamsburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Williamsburg usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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 the autumn, Williamsburg is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Williamsburg in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Williamsburg gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Williamsburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. Williamsburg can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Williamsburg is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 38°F (4°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

Williamsburg usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Williamsburg for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. Williamsburg is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 57°F (14°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Williamsburg