Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska – History, Fun Facts, and Visitor Tips

If you’re visiting Fairbanks, Alaska, one stop you won’t want to miss is the Santa Claus House in nearby North Pole, Alaska. Known for its towering Santa statue, walls of holiday décor, and the famous “Letters from Santa,” this year-round Christmas attraction has been bringing joy to travelers for decades.

The History of the Santa Claus House

The Santa Claus House has been part of Alaska’s holiday magic since 1952. It all began when Con and Nellie Miller, early pioneers in the area, opened a small trading post to serve local residents and travelers along the Richardson Highway.

One day, while wearing a Santa suit for a local event, Con Miller was approached by a child who exclaimed, “Hello, Santa Claus!” That moment sparked the idea for a permanent holiday-themed store — and the Santa Claus House was born.

Over time, the Santa Claus House became much more than a gift shop. It’s now a world-famous Christmas destination, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience year-round holiday cheer in the heart of Alaska.

Things to See and Do at the Santa Claus House

1. Meet Santa (Seasonal) – While Santa doesn’t appear every day, visitors during the holiday season often get the chance to meet him in person.

2. Shop for Unique Christmas Gifts – From handcrafted ornaments to Alaskan-made souvenirs, the store offers holiday décor you won’t find anywhere else.

3. Send a Letter from Santa – The Santa Claus House is home to the “Letters from Santa” program, which has sent personalized letters to children worldwide for over 60 years.

4. Snap a Photo with the Giant Santa – Outside the store stands a 42-foot-tall Santa statue, one of Alaska’s most photographed roadside attractions.

5. Visit the Reindeer – Meet Santa’s live reindeer in their outdoor pen (seasonal).

Why the Santa Claus House is a Must-See in Fairbanks

Located just 20 minutes from Fairbanks, North Pole, Alaska, embraces the Christmas spirit year-round. Even the street names — like Kris Kringle Drive and Snowman Lane — add to the magic. Visiting the Santa Claus House is a perfect stop on a Fairbanks City Tour, especially for families and anyone who loves the holiday season.

For photographers, the combination of festive decorations, reindeer, and Alaska’s natural scenery make it an irresistible photo opportunity.

Travel Tips for Visiting the Santa Claus House

• Best Time to Visit: The store is open year-round, but December offers the most holiday magic.

• Location: 101 St. Nicholas Drive, North Pole, Alaska.

• Combine with Other Attractions: Many visitors pair it with the Museum of the North, Pioneer Park, or Chena Hot Springs for a full day of Fairbanks-area sightseeing.

• Tours Available: Heart of Alaska Tours includes the Santa Claus House as a featured stop on our Fairbanks City Tour.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a lifelong Christmas enthusiast or just looking for a unique Alaska experience, the Santa Claus House is a magical stop filled with history, charm, and festive spirit. From its humble beginnings as a small trading post to its status as a world-famous holiday destination, it’s a piece of Alaska you won’t soon forget.

Book your Fairbanks City Tour with Heart of Alaska Tours to enjoy a guided visit to the Santa Claus House, plus other local highlights.