University of Alaska Museum of the North

Informative and worth the cost of admission. So much to look at, learn, and so many interesting experiences to have. I highly recommend experiencing “The Place Where You Go To Listen”, if only for a couple of minutes. Additionally, if you catch it on the right day, you might also get a glimpse of Denali like we did. We didn’t know how lucky we were as we had just arrived in Alaska for the first time but there’s a fantastic vista very close to the parking lot. In addition to the natural history exhibits, there is a lot of art to see by Alaskan artists along with native exhibits and exploration artifacts and equipment. So much cool stuff to experience that really set the tone for our great Alaska adventure. Don’t miss it!

We really enjoyed our visit to the Museum of the North. Great place to learn about Alaskan history!! We spent about 2-2.5 hours here but could have spent way longer if we wanted to look at the exhibits even more in depth! One thing to note is that parking is not free, we didn’t know that before visiting but it was only $4.50 or so for 3 hours so it’s not expensive at all.

Museum itself is great, definitely worth the price of admission. I love the way the main exhibits are set out and how many topics are covered. If you're freaked out by taxidermy, be aware that there is a lot, but it's mostly well done and always tasteful. One star taken away because I had hoped to get lunch and had half a sandwich that was mid and overpriced even for your average museum cafe. But cafe aside, I had a great time here and especially loved all the pinniped carvings and masks 💖

This is a fascinating natural history museum. There is so much to see. There is a schedule of when videos are playing. They have an art museum as well. The gift shop is small but has unique items. They also have a little cafe that you can stop at. There is an elevator for those who cannot climb stairs. We spent a lot of time walking through the museum. They offer a veteran/military discount as well as a senior discount.

An Absolute Must-See in Fairbanks! ​This museum is a true gem and an essential stop for anyone visiting or living in Fairbanks. The stunning architecture is the first thing you'll notice, and what's inside is just as impressive. It provides a fantastic look into the rich natural, cultural, and artistic history of Alaska.

It's a beautifully and tastefully made Museum amidst scenic area. They also play few short movies on Dinosaur Research and Aurora Borealis of Alaska. Ticket charges are 22 USD for foreigners. Houses massive whale and other Animal fossils. A small ruck store is there though expensive. May other unique preserves and history on the walls. Theres a very interestingly constructed Quite Room where some earthy sounds are played. A must visit while in Fairbanks.

A must see! Now I know where James Mitchner got a lot of material for his book, Alaska. Beautiful campus, even had a view of Denali, and mountain ranges. Check out the gardens too.

A big exhibit of Alaskan history. We enjoyed the morning exploring all the exhibits and art. Watched the Aurora movie too.

I’ve always loved museums, they offer a deeper connection to the place you’re in. The University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks was no exception. It’s where Alaska’s raw beauty and rich history meet under one roof. One of the most unforgettable exhibits was Blue Babe, a 36,000-year-old steppe bison preserved in permafrost. Standing next to it felt like looking through a window into the Ice Age. The towering brown bear, over 9 feet tall and 1,200 pounds, was just as awe-inspiring — a true symbol of survival in Alaska’s harshest landscapes. But what really stood out was how the museum honors Alaska’s living culture. From Indigenous art to creative displays made of old license plates and family heirlooms, every corner told a story that was emotional, personal, and powerful. You can also see the faces and read stories throughout the halls — that are inspiring, humbling, and even heartbreaking. Before you leave, don’t miss the microscope station. Take your time — it’s an incredible hands-on peek into the tiniest layers of Alaska’s natural world.

This place had a whole lot of awsome packed into what seemed small for a University Museum. And this was great for my elderly parents who likely wouldn't have made it around much further! There was so much wonderful information and amazing artifacts. Something for everyone. My only complaint was that on some of the wall displays in the downstairs room the writing was in darker colors with glass background which made them extremely hard to read. The gift shop even was super cool although I was sad I couldn't afford some of the carvings😁. Thank you for a great afternoon that catered to my teenager, my midlife self, and my older parents!