Red Couch

The World Ice Art Championships take place in Fairbanks every March. The competition is held over the course of eleven very dramatic and excitement-filled days. The event attracts the best ice sculptors in the world as they display their considerable talents in various competitive classes. Among the many categories, two of the most popular are abstract and realistic ice sculptures. The public is invited to watch the sculptures being created during the first two weeks in March and then to view the finished work during the last two weeks of the month. The festival is held at Ice Alaska's Ice Park which not only features the competition but also offers a kids' park with rides and other attractions.

Whether you are a boat owner looking to light out or just enjoy relaxing outdoors by the water, you will find the natural solace of the Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River simply irresistible. This is an extensive network of creeks and rivers in east-central Alaska. Interestingly, 392 miles of the river have been given a National Wild and Scenic Recreational River designation. Boaters have many choices and routes available for recreational trips that, despite being different routes, all offer a chance to enjoy the area's breathtaking scenery.

Sure, there were many hopeful settlers who journeyed west to California in the hopes of striking it rich during the Gold Rush. There were also some who ended up moving northwest and continued their search in Alaska. Relive that historic search when you visit the El Dorado Gold Mine in Fairbanks. The two-hour guided tour includes a ride on the Tanana Valley Railroad as well as a visit to the gold fields of the Interior.