Destination: Fairbanks Meeting & Event Planning City Guide
Destination Articles
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Transformative Meetings in Alaska
By Christine Loomis
April 27, 2012
One reward of meeting here: the humbling, restorative power of the land
It’s the famous travel-writing cliche: a land of contrasts—but here, so true.
There’s the hopelessly blurred line between urban offerings and wilderness, vast mountain ranges and glaciers tinged with electric blue in sight of city skylines. There’s the fact that you’re as likely to see moose moseying along riverbanks in town as in remote backcountry, and the appeal of endless hours of daylight when you don’t have to flip a switch at 11:30 p.m. to peruse your iPad or smart phone, contrasted with near endless winter night for long periods in the far north. Alaska is home to Mount McKinley, North America’s highest mountain at 20,320 feet, and to hump-shouldered brown bears the size of SUVs. Fields of fragile wildflowers bloom against an icy backdrop of sharp peaks, and visitors kick back from the overpowering scale of the landscape to focus in on the nuances of superbly crafted local cuisine. For attendees wanting a bonding or team-building experience, what is arguably the most productive salmon fishing in the world awaits. Then again, those tasty behemoths lying at the bottom of Cook Inlet force a decision: salmon or halibut?
Learn about Fairbanks for Event Venues, Services & Meeting Destinations
Destination Description
Smart Stats:
Number of Meetings Hotels: 10
Total Hotel Rooms: 3,800
Number of Special Events Venues: 2
Local Convention Centers: Carlson Center
Local Airports: Fairbanks International Airport
Local CVB: Fairbanks Convention & Visitors Bureau
Smart Snapshot:
Founded by miners burning with gold fever, Fairbanks is the gateway to Denali National Park and the state’s rugged interior. Some say it’s where the “real” Alaska begins; what’s undeniable is that it is a compelling bridge between civilization and vast, untamed wild lands that stir the imagination and soul. Here visitors can flirt with the frontier but meet in comfort in sophisticated venues.
It is also one of the world’s go-to spots for viewing the wondrous spectacle of the aurora borealis. Mid-August through April is prime time for the ethereal ribbons of dancing light, especially during the new moon when the sky is darkest.
