Fairbanks Pictures

Fairbanks attracts visitors from September through April who want to see the famed northern lights. Sherman Hogue Explore Fairbanks

The annual Yukon Quest dog sled race goes through downtown Fairbanks. FCVB

Outdoor enthusiasts love hiking and camping in the Chena River State Recreation Area. Explore Fairbanks FCVB

Visitors to the Robert G. White Large Animal Research Station are always captivated by the baby musk oxen, coveted for their insulating fibers. brytta Getty Images

The solar-powered HooDoo Brewing Company is the place to be for happy hour. Courtesy HooDoo Brewing Company

Local guides take visitors about 25 miles north of Fairbanks for the best views of the aurora borealis, visible from late September through early April. Chris McLennan Alaska.org

Pioneer Park is a favorite outing for families and history buffs. Nicholas Jacobs FCVB

Free to the public, the Georgeson Botanical Garden is a lovely place for a summer stroll. Courtesy of Georgeson Botanical Garden

The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center features free exhibits, stage shows and a staffed visitor center for local information. Angie Cerny Explore Fairbanks

The guided forest walk with a reindeer at Running Reindeer Ranch is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, according to recent visitors. Sherman Hogue Explore Fairbanks

In addition to featuring several rare antique cars, the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum displays period clothing to accompany each vehicle. Sherman Hogue Explore Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Museum of the North houses more than 1.4 million artifacts and a vast collection of indigenous art. Brian Adams Alaska.org

Dog sled racing is a popular winter sport in Fairbanks. Jade Frank FCVB

If you're lucky, you may catch a king salmon like this one in the Chena River. Kevin Yokum FCVB

For a look into local sporting culture, consider visiting in February to attend the Iron Dog snowmobile race. Sherman Hogue Explore Fairbanks

The famous Antler Arch sculpture at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center is a photographer's favorite. Sherman Hogue Explore Fairbanks

Fairbanks celebrates the long light-filled summer nights with the Midnight Sun Festival in Golden Heart Plaza every June. Nicholas Jacobs FCVB

In the winter, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding are popular outdoor activities. Explore Fairbanks

Golden Heart Plaza in downtown Fairbanks is an ideal spot to watch an event or take a walk with the locals. Angie Cerny Explore Fairbanks

The reindeer at Running Reindeer Ranch bring Christmas to life for children. Courtesy of Running Reindeer Ranch

The World Ice Art Championships take place annually in February and March. Courtesy Craig Cheledinas