Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Cultural centre · Fairbanks, Alaska
Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
Visitor and cultural center in downtown Fairbanks, on the banks of the Chena River, with exhibitions about the interior’s native peoples and information on the aurora.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is in downtown Fairbanks, on the banks of the Chena River. It is named for Morris Thompson, a leader of the interior Alaska Athabascan people. The building houses the city’s visitor information center, public land agencies and cultural exhibits.
The exhibits show life through the seasons in interior Alaska, with objects of the Athabascan peoples, a winter cabin and panels on hunting, fishing and climate change. In summer, native artists often demonstrate beadwork, fur work and birchbark crafts.
The center is the place to get aurora forecasts, tour information and road-condition reports for winter. Outside, a garden and a riverside path connect the center to the historic downtown.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 45 minutes to an hour.
Best time
Any time of year, ideally at the start of your visit to town.
How to get there
In downtown Fairbanks, by the Chena River, within walking distance of the historic center.
Tip
Ask at the desk for the aurora forecast for the coming nights and information about aurora-viewing tours.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
What is in the Morris Thompson Center?
Exhibits about the Athabascan peoples and life in the Alaskan interior, tourist information, and craft demonstrations in summer.
Is there an admission fee to enter the Morris Thompson Center?
There is no charge for the permanent exhibits; check ahead before you go.
Where can I get information about the aurora in Fairbanks?
At the Morris Thompson Center, which has information on aurora forecasts and viewing tours.