Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

Fairbanks


There are a few contenders for 'best visitor center in Alaska' but this one, an ingenious mix of museum, info point and cultural center, has to be in the running. Inside are exhibits on Alaskan history and Alaska Native culture, as well as daily movies and cultural performances. Outside, on the grounds, don't miss the historic cabin and moose-antler arch.

The on-site Tanana Chiefs Conference Cultural Programs are designed to share Native culture with the wider world, and also ensure it survives to the next generation. There are one-hour cultural performances (1pm, 3pm and 5pm), live craft-making demonstrations (schedule varies; call ahead) and the opportunity to make your own crafts under the guidance of Native artists.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Fairbanks attractions

1. Golden Heart Plaza

0.22 MILES

This square is meant to serve as a natural nexus point for downtown activity in Fairbanks. Within the riverside square, you'll see a clock tower, winter…

2. Doyon Buidling

0.23 MILES

The corporate headquarters for the Native-owned Doyon company has a lobby filled with indigenous art and artifacts. The 24-hour security guards on duty…

4. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

1.17 MILES

For a state with so few highways, this is a surprisingly comprehensive collection of 70 working antique vehicles, highlighting the evolution of the…

6. Pioneer Air Transportation Museum

1.8 MILES

Only open in summer, this museum is full of olden planes and aviation history, with an obvious focus on the field as practiced in the Alaskan interior and…

7. Tanana Valley Fairgrounds

1.84 MILES

Community dances, neighborhood gatherings and state-fair-style events, which showcase the area and state's rural and frontier culture, often take place in…

8. Pioneer Park

1.9 MILES

Like many cities with little surviving history, Fairbanks attempts to recreate the 'old' days in a historical theme park. Suffice to say, it doesn't…