The 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Alaska – Answered by a Local Guide

By Kevin McElheny, Owner of Heart of Alaska Tours

After years of guiding visitors from around the world through Fairbanks and Interior Alaska, I've heard thousands of questions from first-time visitors. Whether you're planning an Alaska cruise extension, a bucket-list vacation, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, these are the questions I get asked most often.

Here are my honest answers and local tips to help you get the most out of your Alaska trip.

1. When Is the Best Time to Visit Alaska?

The best time depends on what you want to experience.

For warm weather, long days, wildlife viewing, and sightseeing, I recommend visiting between June and August. Summer temperatures in Fairbanks often range from 65°F to 85°F, and you'll enjoy nearly 24 hours of daylight around the summer solstice.

If your goal is to see the Northern Lights, plan your trip between late August and early April.

Kevin's Pro Tip:

My favorite month is late August. You still have summer activities, fewer crowds, beautiful fall colors, and the Northern Lights start making appearances again.

2. How Many Days Do I Need in Alaska?

I recommend a minimum of 7–10 days.

Many visitors underestimate Alaska's size. Distances are huge, and you'll spend more time traveling than you expect.

Kevin's Pro Tip:

If you're flying into Fairbanks, spend at least 3–4 days here. One day for the city, one for Chena Hot Springs, and another for outdoor adventures or wildlife viewing.

3. What Should I Pack for Alaska?

Layers.

Even during summer, Alaska weather can change quickly.

I recommend:

• Waterproof jacket

• Fleece or light insulated layer

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sunglasses

• Hat

• Small backpack

• Bug spray

Kevin's Pro Tip:

I've seen visitors wearing shorts and T-shirts one day and jackets the next. Alaska doesn't care what the forecast says.

4. Are Mosquitoes Really That Bad?

Sometimes.

During peak summer, mosquitoes can be intense, especially near wetlands and wooded areas.

Kevin's Pro Tip:

They're usually worst when the wind is calm. I always carry bug spray in my vehicle, but don't let mosquitoes scare you away from visiting. Most attractions and tours aren't significantly affected.

5. Do I Need a Rental Car?

Not necessarily.

If you're staying in Fairbanks and taking guided tours, many visitors don't need one at all.

Kevin's Pro Tip:

Parking is easy in Fairbanks, but if you're only here for a few days and plan to take tours, you can save hundreds by skipping the rental car.

6. What Are the Best Things to Do in Fairbanks?

My top recommendations are:

• Chena Hot Springs Resort

• Museum of the North

• Morris Thompson Cultural Center

• Santa Claus House in North Pole

• Pioneer Park

• Northern Lights viewing

• Riverboat Discovery

• Gold Dredge 8

Kevin's Pro Tip:

If you're short on time, combine a city tour with Chena Hot Springs. You'll experience the highlights of Interior Alaska without worrying about driving or planning.

7. Is Chena Hot Springs Worth Visiting?

Absolutely.

It's one of the most popular attractions in Interior Alaska for a reason.

The outdoor rock lake stays warm year-round and offers a truly unique Alaska experience.

Kevin's Pro Tip:

I've visited Chena Hot Springs hundreds of times, and I still enjoy every trip. Winter visits with steam rising into subzero air are unforgettable, but summer evenings under the Midnight Sun are equally special.

8. What Is the Ice Museum?

The Ice Museum is a year-round attraction built from thousands of tons of ice and snow.

Inside you'll find:

• Ice sculptures

• Ice furniture

• Ice chandeliers

• Ice hotel rooms

• An ice bar

Visitors 21 and older can purchase an Appletini served in a glass made entirely of ice.

Kevin's Pro Tip:

The Appletini is one of the most photographed experiences in Alaska. Even if you're not a big cocktail person, it's worth it for the experience.

9. Can I See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is considered one of the best places in the world to view the Aurora Borealis.

The season typically runs from late August through early April.

Kevin's Pro Tip:

The biggest mistake visitors make is staying only one night. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can never be guaranteed. The more nights you spend in Fairbanks, the better your chances.

10. What Is My Favorite Alaska Adventure?

This is always a tough question.

One of my most memorable adventures was living on a glacier outside Juneau while working dog sled tours. Spending time in such a remote environment gave me a deeper appreciation for Alaska's wild beauty.

Another bucket-list adventure I'd still love to do is visit Kaktovik to see polar bears on the Arctic coast or spend time camping in Katmai National Park among Alaska's famous brown bears.

That's the amazing thing about Alaska—no matter how much time you spend here, there's always another adventure waiting.

Final Thoughts

Alaska is unlike anywhere else in the world.

It's bigger, wilder, and more beautiful than most people imagine. Whether you're visiting Fairbanks for a few days or exploring the entire state, take your time, embrace the unexpected, and don't be afraid to get off the beaten path.

If you're visiting Fairbanks and would like a local guide to show you around, we'd love to help.

At Heart of Alaska Tours, we specialize in small-group experiences including our Fairbanks City Highlights Tour and Midnight Sun Hot Springs & Ice Museum Tour.

Don't just visit Alaska—experience it.