15 Best Hotels in Fairbanks for an Unforgettable Stay

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommended hotels in Fairbanks:

❤️ Best overall hotel in Fairbanks: Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge
🗺️ Great Location: Westmark Fairbanks Hotel
👛 Best on-a-budget hotel: Sven’s Basecamp Hostel

You’ve got Fairbanks, Alaska on your radar, and you are trying to plan your next Alaskan adventure — question number one is likely, “where to stay in Fairbanks?” Luckily, the city has a plethora of options when it comes to accommodations, including hotels, inns, and hostels.

We’ve compiled a list of the top hotels in the area, complete with all the information you’ll need to make your decision. From the luxurious to the affordable, there’s something on this list that suits your sense of adventure, your comfort levels, and the size of your wallet. So, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation, Fairbanks has the perfect hotel for you.

Here are 15 of the best Fairbanks hotels for you to choose from.

Best Hotels in Fairbanks

1. Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Conference Center – 3☆

The Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center is in the heart of Fairbanks and offers spectacular views of the Northern Lights from September through March. In the summer, guests can enjoy the hotel during the 21 hours of sunlight daily.

A fitness facility, free parking, coin-operated laundry facilities, and a selection of conference and meeting spaces are available as amenities. There are 400 elegant rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi, which reviewers have called “clean and quiet.”

Red Lantern Steak & Spirits, which serves lunch and supper, and Northern Latitudes Restaurant, which provides Alaskan cuisine from May to September, are the hotel’s dining options. There also is a bar on site.

The property is approximately 125 miles from Denali National Park and 6 miles from the Georgeson Botanical Garden. It is also well located for travel to and from the Fairbanks International Airport.

Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Conference Center View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

2. Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge – 3☆

The Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge has 67 rooms available for booking, including comfortable king rooms — all smoke-free. The amenities include WiFi, mini-fridges, coffee makers, and cable TV. Guests love the softness of the beds.

The property offers a complimentary light breakfast each morning with options such as yogurt, eggs, fruit, and cereal. There is a fitness center for guests who need to burn a few calories, and the front desk reception is available 24 hours. They can help with a wake-up call for those hoping to see the Northern Lights. Reviewers love the friendliness of the staff.

The property is situated near AK-3, giving guests easy access to area attractions. The university, Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, and the airport are all within a few minutes drive time.

Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

3. Pike’s Waterfront Lodge – 3☆

Perched on the Chena River not too far from the airport, Pike’s Waterfront Lodge offers comfortable rooms with scenic views. One room is decked out with a private jacuzzi. Guests consider the room rates to be very reasonable.

Take advantage of the 24-hour fitness room and the onsite gift shop. The grounds also offer a serene garden and a fireplace for getting cozy after a day of hiking trails. You can entertain yourself in the property’s mini-museum, and there is an Aurora Conservatory to make it easier for guests to witness the Northern Lights.

There is a restaurant on-site, and the property offers a continental buffet breakfast each morning. Pike’s has a complimentary airport shuttle service.

Pike’s Waterfront Lodge View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

4. River’s Edge Resort – 3☆

Guests call the Rivers Edge Resort sophisticated and stunning! There are multiple lodging options to choose from, including cottages and RV grounds. The views are scenic from just about any spot on the property, but guests particularly like the river-facing terraces that come with the cottages.

Rooms are equipped with flatscreen TVs, microwaves, and coffeemakers to give you all the comforts of home. The cottages can accommodate up to four which is an excellent option for families.

The Miner’s Hall Breakfast Room will provide a buffet breakfast each morning, while lunch and dinner can be had at the onsite Chena’s Alaskan Grill. Enjoy the paths surrounding the property or stop in for a happy hour at the in-house bar.

Rivers Edge offers a free airport shuttle or pickup from the train station.

River’s Edge Resort View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

5. Candlewood Suites – 3☆

On the northern side of town, the Candlewood Suites offers accommodations with a modern flair. There are 103 guest rooms available to book, including a comfortable Queen Suite. The suite contains a kitchen and a separate seating area.

Guests can take advantage of the 24-hour fitness center, which offers stationary bikes, treadmills, as well as weights. Plus, there are self-service laundry facilities for those who may be on an extended stay or packed light. There is also a terrace with a grill available for guest use which can double as a spot for viewing the Northern Lights!

Candlewood is within easy driving distance of the University and the airport. Plus, there are several restaurants nearby with a McDonald’s within walking distance.

• Best for: University visitors
• Location: University area
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $$
• Shuttle to airport: Yes
• Pets friendly: Yes
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

Candlewood Suites View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

6. SpringHill Suites by Marriott – 3☆

The SpringHill Suites Fairbanks is located in the downtown area and offers 140 guest rooms. Known for its cleanliness, SpringHill boasts a heated indoor pool, a jacuzzi, and a fitness center that is open 24 hours.

Rooms include large bathrooms and comfortable seating areas with sofas and armchairs. The onsite mini-market allows you to pick up snacks or any toiletry items you may have forgotten to pack.

Partake in the daily breakfast buffet and dine on waffles, eggs, and fresh fruits. The onsite restaurant Lavelle’s Bistro offers lunch and dinner options. Patrons specifically like the French onion soup and the risotto.

Guests are ideally situated to explore the city’s attractions, such as the Morris Thompson Cultural Center and the Lend-Lease Monument. There is a free shuttle to the Fairbanks International airport, and those who drive their own car to the hotel can use the free onsite parking.

• Best for: Swimmers
• Location: Downtown
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $$
• Shuttle to airport: Yes
• Pets friendly: No
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: Yes
• Pools: Yes

SpringHill Suites by Marriott View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

7. Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks – 3☆

Not too far from downtown, the Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks has 101 rooms for guests to book. Guests love the “upscale” feel of the room amenities. Rooms come with coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. There is a comfy public seating area where you can get to know your fellow guests.

Guests can enjoy the indoor pool and jacuzzi after a long day of sightseeing or hiking. Plus, the property provides a delicious breakfast buffet each morning containing both hot and cold items. There is free WiFi on the grounds, and the property provides a shuttle service to the airport or train station.

The Hampton is within easy reach of area attractions like the Fairbanks Ice Museum and the Tanana River, less than 6 miles away. The hotel provides a free shuttle to the Fairbanks International airport. Staff at the property can speak both English and Spanish.

• Best for: Spanish speakers
• Location: University area
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $$
• Shuttle to airport: Yes
• Pets friendly: No
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: Yes
• Pools: Yes

Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

8. Bridgewater Hotel – 2☆

With 93 rooms in the downtown area, Bridgewater Hotel puts guests in a prime spot for scenic Chena River views as well as easy access to the historic district. Rooms come equipped with flatscreen TVs, and some of the larger rooms have seating areas.

Guests can make use of the complimentary WiFi and free onsite parking. The shuttle service can get you back and forth to the airport, and the property offers Northern Lights wake-up calls. Breakfast is provided each morning.

You will be in easy range of the city’s popular attractions like Pioneer Park. Plus, there is plenty of eating and shopping in the hotel’s vicinity! Patrons love the cleanliness of the property.

• Best for: Shoppers
• Location: Downtown
• Stars: 2
• Price range: $
• Shuttle to airport: Yes
• Pets friendly: No
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

Bridgewater Hotel View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

9. A Taste of Alaska Lodge – 3☆

Full of rustic charm, A Taste of Alaska is a timber lodge located just outside the city. The more remote location offers an excellent spot for viewing the Northern Lights as you are removed from the city’s light pollution, and there is a lounge for Northern Lights viewing During the winter months, the staff at the lodge will help you arrange activities such as dog sled rides, snowshoeing, and other authentic Alaskan activities.

With 260 acres of pine forests and cabins, guests always wish they could have stayed longer! The cabins are fitted with seating areas and full-size kitchens. Even though you have space to cook your own meals, the property provides a continental breakfast with light fare.

The property recommends renting a car for the duration of your stay as it is a bit off the beaten path and does not provide shuttle service. The road stays plowed in the winter, but an all-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.

• Best for: Adventure seekers
• Location: Steele Creek area
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $$
• Shuttle to airport: No
• Pets friendly: No
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

A Taste of Alaska Lodge View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

10. Alaska Grizzly Lodge – 3☆

Just outside of Fairbanks, off of Chena Hot Springs Road, Alaska Grizzly Lodge is a European-style lodge tucked into the Alaskan wilderness. You can expect plenty of views from your room and the terrace. You may be able to snag a few photos of area wildlife without even leaving your room!

Room amenities include cable television, toiletries, and complimentary WiFi. The property offers a full American breakfast each morning. A kitchen available for guest use is fully equipped, and there are also laundry facilities.

The terrace makes a great spot for viewing the Northern Lights from September through March. The property hosts offer a wake-up service for guests, and there is an aurora guide to help you make the most of your viewing experience.

The Fairbanks International airport can be reached with a roughly 30-minute drive, and downtown Fairbanks is about 10 miles away from the lodge.

• Best for: Northern Lights viewers
• Location: Steele Creek area
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $$
• Shuttle to airport: Yes (fees apply)
• Pets friendly: Yes (fees may apply)
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

Alaska Grizzly Lodge View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

11. Billie’s Backpackers Hostel

Billie’s Backpackers Hostel is the longest-running in the city, and it provides accommodation options for groups and singles. The property offers private rooms and multi-bed dormitories. In the summer, guests can opt for the gazebo dormitory. The property also has tent space in the backyard, allowing you access to the common areas inside the hostel.

The common spaces include plenty of outdoor areas, a cozy living room with books to borrow, and a group dining area. The hostel offers free WiFi to all guests, and there are some bicycles available to borrow as well. There are an outdoor firepit and BBQ facilities. Parking is available on-site but requires advanced notice.

Billie’s is an adults-only property.

• Best for: Budget travelers
• Location: University area
• Price range: $
• Shuttle to airport: No
• Pets friendly: No
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

Billie’s Backpackers Hostel View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

12. La Quinta by Wyndham Fairbanks Airport – 3☆

Less than a mile from the Fairbanks International Airport, the La Quinta Inn & Suites offers a free shuttle to get you back and forth. Guests can expect comfortable, soundproofed rooms with microwaves, mini-fridges, coffee makers, and free WiFi.

The hotel amenities include a gift shop, a launderette, and a business center. There is also a sauna for guest use as well as a well-equipped fitness center. Patrons can enjoy a complimentary Bright Side Breakfast each morning, including favorites like waffles and fresh fruit.

Guests can easily walk from La Quinta to catch a ride on Riverboat Discovery cruise. Within a short driving distance, guests can reach the university, Fort Wainwright, and the Tanana Lakes Recreation Area.

• Best for: Short stays
• Location: Airport
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $$
• Shuttle to airport: Yes
• Pets friendly: Yes
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

La Quinta by Wyndham Fairbanks Airport View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

13. 7 Gables Inn & Suites – 3☆

Exuding hospitality, the 7 Gables Inn & Suites is known for the warmth of its staff. Offering unique rooms to guests for 30 years, the property loves to surprise with its distinct style. It is a preferred property for vacationers and business travelers alike. Luggage storage is available.

Guests can expect free WiFi, a complimentary breakfast each morning, and jetted bathtubs. Rooms come equipped with flat-screen TVs, toiletries, and hair dryers. Some of the rooms have fireplaces to make things extra cozy.

The 7 Gables staff can assist you with Northern Lights viewing, and there are picnic areas on the property. Guests can make use of the provided skis in the winter and the onsite library all year round. The kitchen is open to guest use, and coffee is provided all day long.

Conveniently located for visiting the University of Alaska Fairbanks and travel to and from the airport. Moose Mountain is a short drive away.

• Best for: Skiiers
• Location: University area
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $
• Shuttle to airport: No
• Pets friendly: No
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

7 Gables Inn & Suites View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

14. Hyatt Place Fairbanks – 3☆

With 112 rooms to book, Hyatt Place Fairbanks offers quality accommodations in a convenient location. The rooms provide flatscreen televisions, free WiFi, and a workstation with an ergonomic chair. Amenities at the Hyatt Place include an indoor pool, a fitness center, and

The hot buffet breakfast is served each day just off the lobby. Families love the spacious room options as well as the indoor pool and hot tub, and Hyatt Place Fairbanks visitors are very happy with the friendliness of the staff.

Guests are in a prime location to reach Fort Wainwright, Carlson Center Arena, and the university. The property is within walking distance of a bus station which is great for those travelers not looking to rent a car while in Fairbanks.

• Best for: Families
• Location: Downtown
• Stars: 3
• Price range: $$
• Shuttle to airport: Yes
• Pets friendly: No
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: Yes
• Pools: Yes

Hyatt Place Fairbanks View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

15. Sven’s Basecamp Hostel

​​If you are looking to stay in an Alaskan treehouse, Sven’s Basecamp Hostel is the place for you! The accommodations at Sven’s include two treehouses, five private cabins, private and shared wall tent cabins, and arctic oven tent rentals. The property is full of comfortable spots to relax with more than a touch of wilderness thrown in for a truly Alaskan experience.

Sven’s provides complimentary WiFi, a BBQ grill, an extra-large communal kitchen, and a fire pit surrounded by hand-crafted wooden benches. The property’s rustic vibe extends to the bathroom situation. The bathrooms are communal, and the showers are coin-operated.

• Best for: Rustic travelers
• Location: Airport
• Price range: $
• Shuttle to airport: No
• Pets friendly: Yes
• Spa: No
• Jacuzzi: No
• Pools: No

Sven’s Basecamp Hostel View Rooms Photos, Facilities, and Current Prices Last Updated May, 2023

A Place to Stay in Fairbanks

As you can see, the places to stay in Fairbanks are full of character and charm. If you are into the rugged Alaskan experience, Sven’s Basecamp Hostel may be the way to soothe your adventurous soul. However, if you would prefer a room with all the creature comforts, the Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge is probably more your speed.