Pioneer Park Tours

Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park showing theater scenes, music and interior views

Take a trip through time at this historical theme park, which celebrates Alaska’s pioneering heritage with museums, playgrounds, restored aircraft and a riverboat.

Fairbanks’ Pioneer Park is an extensive outdoor complex alongside the Chena River and the birthplace of the city itself. Formerly known as Alaskaland, the 44-acre (109-hectare) park brings the state’s pioneering heritage to life through historical museums and exciting hands-on exhibits. Climb on board a 1930s riverboat, explore a hangar full of restored aircraft and learn about the gold rush that shaped the region.

Dating back to 1967 when the state celebrated its 100th birthday, Pioneer Park encapsulates Alaska’s rich cultural heritage through hands-on experiences and educational exhibits. Begin your visit to Pioneer Park with a visit to the magnificently restored sternwheeler, Riverboat Nenana. Nicknamed the Queen of the Yukon, this elegant riverboat houses the park’s visitor center and a large diorama of pioneering life on the Yukon and Tanana rivers. Pick up brochures and maps to plan your route around the park.

Find out about the gold rush that brought fortune and a wave of prospectors to the region at Mining Valley. Examine some of the equipment that was used to reach the precious metals far below the surface. Children will enjoy the antique carousel and exploring the Pioneer Park Playground, which has fun animal-themed play equipment. See a recreation of an Alaskan Native village and check out the Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts. This building dates back to the park’s inception in 1967 and hosts a changing program of art exhibitions.

Learn about a piece of American presidential history in the infamous Harding Car and head to the Tanana Valley Railroad Museum to learn about how rail enabled the mining industry of the fledgling state. This museum contains historical exhibits and restored locomotives. Jump on board an early locomotive known as Old 67 and take a lap of the park within a beautifully restored train car. Grab some lunch at the park’s on-site restaurants, which serve up seafood dishes and locally brewed beers.

Pioneer Park is located on the banks of the Chena River, a short distance west of downtown Fairbanks. The park is free to enter, however, several of the museums and other attractions charge admission fees. The park is open daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Plan a trip to see Pioneer Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Pike's Waterfront Lodge

Pike's Waterfront Lodge

3 out of 5
Price was $1,004, price is now $816 per person
$816
per person
Nov 6 - Nov 10
found 13 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Fairbanks (FAI)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,967 reviews)
We love Pike’s! Totally off the charts Alaskan kitsch. It borders on the absurd but always stays JUST inside the line. Have stayed there many times over the years for work and family trips. Excellent Alaskan regional Art (Fejes, DeRoux, Matchetanz, etc.) and … ducks, stuffed dead animals, ice cream and neon! What’s not to love? Stay here. It is not another anonymous tourist hotel. On the river, plenty beer, ice cream, and bocce. You will have a story to tell when you get home.

Reviewed on Aug 23, 2025

Borealis Basecamp

Borealis Basecamp

3 out of 5
Price was $1,530, price is now $1,132 per person
$1,132
per person
Oct 24 - Oct 27
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Denver (DEN) to Fairbanks (FAI)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (35 reviews)
Rewak Studios

Rewak Studios

2 out of 5
Price was $1,007, price is now $818 per person
$818
per person
Nov 6 - Nov 10
found 13 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Fairbanks (FAI)
8.6/10 Excellent! (13 reviews)
The dog amenities were good

Reviewed on Apr 19, 2024

Popular places to visit

I went to the hockey game it was army agents air-force and army won 6 to 0

Carlson Center Event Arena

Catch an event at Carlson Center Event Arena during your trip to Fairbanks. Stroll along the riverfront or seek out the local tours.

Carlson Center Event Arena
Hoodoo Brewing Company

Hoodoo Brewing Company

You can take time to visit Hoodoo Brewing Company during your travels to Fairbanks. Amble around the area's riverfront or seek out the local tours.

Hoodoo Brewing Company
Fairbanks featuring interior views

Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

Take your first steps into Interior Alaska at a visitors center that combines information about the region with exhibitions, events and artisanal crafts.

Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center
Taken at the park next to UAF. It was cool enough that the mosquitoes weren't out en mass yet but all the snow that's

University of Alaska-Fairbanks

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of Alaska-Fairbanks, during your travels in College. Stroll along the riverfront or seek out the local tours.

University of Alaska-Fairbanks

40 Below Fairbanks

You can spend time studying the exhibits at 40 Below Fairbanks in Fairbanks. Stroll along the riverfront or seek out the local tours.

40 Below Fairbanks

Pioneer Air Museum

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Pioneer Air Museum during your trip to Fairbanks. Amble around the area's riverfront or seek out the local tours.

Pioneer Air Museum

Best Lodging Options Near Pioneer Park

Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center

Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center

3.5 out of 5
813 Noble St, Fairbanks, AK
Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center
Best Western Plus Pioneer Park Inn

Best Western Plus Pioneer Park Inn

2.5 out of 5
1908 Chena Landing Loop, Fairbanks, AK
Best Western Plus Pioneer Park Inn
Comfort Inn Fairbanks

Comfort Inn Fairbanks

2.5 out of 5
1909 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK
Comfort Inn Fairbanks
Property near Pioneer Park, Chena River, and the Carlson Center.

Property near Pioneer Park, Chena River, and the Carlson Center.

Fairbanks
Property near Pioneer Park, Chena River, and the Carlson Center.
Next to Pioneer Park, Chena River, Carlson Center, and bus lines.

Next to Pioneer Park, Chena River, Carlson Center, and bus lines.

Fairbanks
Next to Pioneer Park, Chena River, Carlson Center, and bus lines.
Charming 2-bedroom duplex apartment with WiFi in Fairbanks

Charming 2-bedroom duplex apartment with WiFi in Fairbanks

Fairbanks
Charming 2-bedroom duplex apartment with WiFi in Fairbanks
Pike's Waterfront Lodge

Pike's Waterfront Lodge

3 out of 5
1850 Hoselton Rd, Fairbanks, AK
Pike's Waterfront Lodge
Taku’s Contemporary & Stylish Private Retreat

Taku’s Contemporary & Stylish Private Retreat

Fairbanks
Taku’s Contemporary & Stylish Private Retreat
Bridgewater Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Bridgewater Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

2.5 out of 5
723 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK
Bridgewater Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
See all 460 properties in Pioneer Park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park in Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a variety of activities for visitors, including engaging tours, hockey, and sledding. This interesting park invites you to explore local attractions and nearby hotels, making it a perfect spot for a fun-filled day. Whether you're looking to discover the charm of Fairbanks or enjoy outdoor recreational activities, Pioneer Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Food and drinks

Visit Hoodoo Brewing Company, an alcohol brewery 0.8 miles from Pioneer Park, for a delightful experience. Enjoy their continental breakfast while soaking in the romantic, entertaining vibes. It's a positive spot for food lovers looking to savor local flavors!

Shopping

Pioneer Park offers a quaint shopping experience with local boutiques and artisan shops. If you're up for a drive, the Santa Claus House, located 14 miles away, is a must-visit for unique gifts and festive souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Carlson Center Event Arena, where you can catch exciting sports events. For a more tranquil vibe, Growden Memorial Park offers serene walking paths and relaxation spots. If you're seeking adventure, head to Big Dipper Ice Arena for ice skating fun and entertainment.

Adventure

At Ski Land, located 18 miles from Pioneer Park, experience exhilarating skiing and snowboarding on well-groomed slopes. Enjoy the vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike, making it a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts in Fairbanks.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of the Palace Theatre, just 0.1 mile from Pioneer Park, where you can enjoy a romantic evening of culture and entertainment. For a family-friendly option, stroll to Fairbanks Drama Association and Children’s Theatre, located 0.7 mile away, offering captivating performances.

Find the best attractions near Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park in Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a rich blend of attractions, including history museums, a modern college, and a natural history museum, making it ideal for culture enthusiasts and families. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding the park while exploring its popular points of interest. For a memorable stay, consider nearby hotels that highlight the charm of Pioneer Park and its unique offerings.

  • University of Alaska-Fairbanks: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, where you can explore beautiful campus grounds, engage in cultural events, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The university often hosts public lectures and art exhibits, offering a glimpse into local academia.
  • Fairbanks Ice Museum: Dive into the fascinating world of ice artistry at this captivating museum. Discover stunning ice sculptures, learn about the history of ice carving, and enjoy family-friendly exhibits that celebrate the culture of Fairbanks. Don't miss the chance to see live ice carving demonstrations!
  • Chena River: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Chena River, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you want to kayak, fish, or take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, this picturesque spot offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers.

Best time to go to Pioneer Park

The best time to visit Pioneer Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Pioneer Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Pioneer Park falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January-4.0°F (-20.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February3.7°F (-15.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
March11.8°F (-11.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
April30.4°F (-0.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
May50.2°F (10.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July62.8°F (17.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September44.6°F (7.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October28.8°F (-1.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
November7.7°F (-13.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December0.0°F (-17.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Pioneer Park

For a budget-friendly trip to Pioneer Park in Fairbanks, consider visiting nearby attractions like the University of Alaska-Fairbanks and Chena River, both of which are free. Travel during the off-peak season from November to January for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or take advantage of last-minute deals through Expedia. Use their search tool to find the best prices, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and rewards for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Pioneer Park are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Pioneer Park about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and customize your preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotel options first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Pioneer Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.