Wedgewood Resort

Wedgewood Resort is a Fairbanks property that appeals to travelers who want more room than a standard hotel gives them. Resort-style properties in the city tend to offer larger accommodations, a bit of grounds to walk around and a calmer feel than a downtown block, and that combination suits families, groups of friends and visitors who plan to stay several nights. Fairbanks asks a lot of its visitors in terms of luggage, because winter means parkas, boots and photography gear, and summer means rain jackets, bug repellent and an extra bag of souvenirs. A room with space to spread out makes the whole trip feel less cramped. The property is a base for the classic Fairbanks days, such as a morning at the Museum of the North, an afternoon on a riverboat, and an evening aurora tour in the colder months. Rooms and facilities differ between categories, so look carefully at what each option offers, particularly the number of beds, kitchen facilities and whether the room is on the ground floor.

Think about how you will use the room. If you are staying a week, a place with some cooking facilities can save money, since restaurant meals in Alaska are expensive and the Interior has fewer options than Anchorage. If you are staying two nights before heading to Denali, a simple room with an early breakfast may be enough. Check when you book what the rate includes, and whether the property offers parking with plug-ins for rental cars in winter.

Fairbanks is a city where driving is normal, and a car gives you freedom to reach Pioneer Park, the university museum and the trailheads at your own pace. Without one, plan on taxis and tour pickups, and confirm with each operator where they will collect you. In the aurora months, ask about late arrival, wake-up calls and whether a quiet room away from the road is available, because you may be sleeping during the day.

Summer visitors should know that the sun barely sets around the solstice, so blackout curtains are valuable. Winter visitors should ask how the property handles snow and ice around the entrances and car park. The resort style suits families with children, since there is usually more space to move around than in a compact hotel, and it also works for couples who want a quieter base.

Book early for aurora season and summer weekends, and read the cancellation terms before you pay. Ask the property which rooms are quietest and whether the grounds are lit at night, since both affect how well you sleep after a late tour.