3 noc Fairbanks in Sept Need car to see all? Hotel favorites?

[suefrankw]

Hi all

thanks in advance for your wisdom on this topic.

We are spending 3 nights post cruise in Fairbanks in mid September.  So wondering if we need a car to see the must see sights?

Also looking for recommendations for mid-priced hotels. If we have a car can be any location. Seems if no car staying downtown may be better?? We will be taking the train up from Anchorage.

thanks

 

[Northern Aurora]

Fairbanks is rather spread out.  We do have a bus system but since the majority of folks who live here have vehicles it isn't an extensive system.  While you haven't listed your interests and attractions you wish to visit please consider renting a car.  

 

During the pre-covid times the Sophie Station Hotel offered a shuttle trolley which had a fixed schedule around town to various attractions.  Contact the hotel to determine if that we will continue.

 

Hotels to consider include the Sophie Station (Embassy Suite type rooms), River's Edge Resort (I never understand the "resort" part of the name but they have individual cottages which are very popular) and Pike's Waterfront Lodge.

 

And with three nights I would suggest an overnight stay at the Chena Hot Springs Resort.  The CHSR is  located at the end of Chena Hot Springs Road.  The first 24 or so miles are through subdivisions, but at mile 24 you enter the large Chena River State Recreation Area.  Great moose habitat.  The large rock pool at the resort is lovely.  Take their free energy tour as they explain how they turn that hot springs steam in to their own power and take you through their greenhouses (which they can keep warm at -50 F).  People also enjoy their ice museum.  And in September you have the potential for aurora viewing.

 

If you wish to list any hotels you are considering I can comment on the location.