riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

RiverBoat Discovery Information

riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

DINING OPTIONS

We have various dining options on Steamboat Landing and Discovery III:

riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

CHENA VILLAGE LIVING MUSEUM

Be immersed in frontier living first hand with a guided walking tour of an Athabascan village. You’ll see an Athabascan  village with cabins made of spruce logs, a cache used for storing supplies, a primitive spruce bark hut and fur pelts. Our guides will explain how the wolf, fox, martin and beaver were used to provide food and protection in the harsh Arctic climate. They will also share how the Athabascans skillfully survived for over 10,000 years and how they adapted to village life and Western culture in the past century.

At the end of your guided tour, you will have time to explore the village on your own, interact with our guides and visit dogs from Susan Butcher’s Trail Breaker Kennel.

riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

INTERNATIONAL SCRIPTS

A family business

The Binkley family’s steamboating tradition goes back over 100 years and five generations. In 1898, when Charles M. Binkley hiked over the Chilkoot Pass with other stampeders, he was not so much in search of gold as he was the chance to build and operate boats on the Yukon and its tributaries. He became a respected pilot and boat builder in the North. His son, Captain Jim Binkley, Sr., followed in his father’s footsteps and piloted freight vessels on the Yukon and Tanana Rivers in the 1940's.

As transportation systems changed in the north, railroads and airplanes began to carry much of the freight. In 1950, noting the coming changes in the freighting business, Captain Jim and his wife, Mary, began a river excursion business focusing on sharing their love of Alaska and its culture with visitors. Over the coming years, Captain Jim and Mary B’s business grew from the Godspeed, a 25 passenger vessel, to the Discovery III, a 900 passenger vessel. Today, Captain Jim’s grandchildren run the company and Mary B is still active in the business.

In addition to growing their sternwheel business, the Binkley’s have added a gold mining attraction: Gold Dredge 8. The family has developed a tour in the heart of the gold fields where the first gold strikes attracted miners from the Klondike. They have incorporated large scale industrial mining and the smaller 'Mom and Pop' side of mining into an all-encompassing tour that also features the Trans Alaska Pipeline and a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad.

riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

1975 Discovery Drive Fairbanks, AK 99709

1-866-479-6673

907-479-6673

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Gold Dredge 8

Captain Jim's Salmon

Adventure Green Alaska

Alaska Travel Industry Association

Explore Fairbanks

PVA Green Waters

Trip Advisor

Trail Breaker Kennel

Riverboat Discovery Cruise in the fall.

  • Riverboat Discovery Cruise Fairbanks

Climb aboard a classic Chena River sternwheeler to experience the living history of Fairbanks, Alaska.

Guests can enjoy a Dog Sled demonstration from on board the Riverboat Discovery.

  • Things to Do in Fairbanks

More Details

Rates & dates, departure times, availability.

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For decades, riverboats like the Discovery III sternwheeler ran the big rivers of Alaska's interior. They hauled freight and passengers, linked distant communities and helped build new ones. Today the boat takes visitors on a unique tour to explore that history and see firsthand some of Alaska's quintessential pastimes.

Experience some of Alaska's quintessential pastimes.

The stately Discovery III has three decks with comfortable indoor seating, and a fourth top deck with open-air seating. The large red paddlewheel splashing at the stern propels the boat on its journey down the Chena River. It's right on the water shortly after leaving Steamboat Landing that guests see their first Alaskan demo. A bushplane on floats takes off alongside the boat, banking in a long arc until it loops back and lands again. The pilot talks about the wild life of bush flying in Alaska before the boat continues downstream. The next stop is an exuberant sled dog demo at the riverside kennels of late four-time Iditarod musher Susan Butcher.

Upon reaching the confluence of the Chena and Tanana Rivers, guests disembark for a walking tour of a Chena Indian Village. Native Alaskan guides lead groups to see spruce cabins, caches, smokehouses, and crafts created by Athabascans native to interior Alaska. After spending time further exploring the village on their own, guests board the boat for a return ride up the Chena River.

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise includes a bush plane demo, sled dog demo, and Chena Indian Village tour. There is a small giftshop and galley selling snacks, drinks, ice cream, and hearty lunch boxes on the boat. The tour returns to the Steamboat Landing where guests can visit the Discovery Trading Post, the largest Alaskan souvenir shop in Fairbanks .

What to Bring

Wear comfortable clothes and dress in layers. Most of the tour is conducted outside, so bring a light coat or rain jacket if necessary.

Special Instructions

Guests must check in at the Steamboat Landing station at least 30 minutes prior to the tour departure to exchange their voucher for a boarding pass.

Transfers & Meeting Points

The Riverboat Discovery Cruise is just five minutes from the Fairbanks airport and 20 minutes from downtown Fairbanks. Many local hotels offer shuttles to the Riverboat Discovery. Guests must coordinate their own transportation to the tour.

Riverboat Discovery Cruise 1975 Discovery Drive Fairbanks, Alaska 99709

Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.

Child rates apply to children under the age of 13. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.

Dates Adult Child Infant
6/1/25 (Su) to 8/31/25 (Su)6/1/25 (Su) to 8/31/25 (Su) Adult: $95.00 Child: $53.00 Infant: $0.00

Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.

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Depart: 8:45 AM Location:
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Depart: 2:00 PM Location:

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With the 2021 summer season still taking shape, some tour providers may not yet have their operating dates set. Availability on AlaskaTravel.com reflects the most current information and is updated daily. Please contact us if you have questions about this tour.

Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.

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Quick Facts

  • Duration 3 Hours
  • Options AM, PM
  • Operating Dates Daily from 6/1/2025 to 8/31/2025
  • Activity Level Less Active

What's Included

  • Guided tour through an Athabascan village.
  • Passage on a classic sternwheeler riverboat.
  • Bush plane and sled dog demonstrations.
  • Complimentary coffee and fresh donuts.

Guest Feedback

"We loved this! They made what might look like an ordinary river come alive! This was in our "Top 3 Attractions" list!"

~Ron from Illinois~

Photo Gallery

Riverboats on the Chena River.

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Fairbanks Sightseeing Tours

riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

Riverboat Discovery Cruise

Approximately 5¼ hours

May 15 - September 15

1:00pm (from hotel)

Per Person - $99.95

  • Snack Included
  • Easy Activity Level
  • Family Friendly

Enjoy a cruise on the Chena and Tanana rivers aboard an authentic sternwheeler and watch a bush pilot take off and land from a riverbank landing strip. From late June through early August, these waters teem with salmon. As the paddle wheel continues to churn the waters, witness the “wedding of the rivers.” When the clear waters of the Chena meet the glacier-fed Tanana, the result is clouds of silt that rise and fall over the river. Make a stop at the home of a late four-time Iditarod champion, meet some winning sled dogs and witness a sled-dog demonstration. Next, you’ll disembark the sternwheeler for a guided tour through a replica of an Athabascan Indian Village where you will learn about local life in depth.

Special Note

Grab and go lunch items are available at an additional charge.

This tour can only be booked in conjunction with a Gray Line Alaska package. To add this tour to your package, please call 1-888-425-1737.

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Why the Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks Should Top Your List

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Table of Contents

One of my favorite “touristy” activities in Fairbanks, Alaska is the Riverboat Discovery! If you’re visiting during its operating months, make sure you don’t miss out on this gem.

I’ve been on the Riverboat tour about six times, both as a local and as a visitor to Alaska, and it’s always just as fun and captivating— I never tire of it. So, I’m excited to share why it keeps drawing me back!

The authenticity of the experience and the insights from the wonderful presenters of various cultural activities will leave you and your family smiling, and truly immersed in a slice of the Alaskan lifestyle.

This image shows a scenic view from the deck of a riverboat, with passengers seated and enjoying the serene surroundings. The boat is cruising along a calm, reflective river bordered by grassy land, small houses, and patches of construction. In the distance, green forested hills stretch under a bright blue sky with wispy clouds. The peaceful landscape contrasts with the activity on the boat, as people gather to observe the natural beauty.

The Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks, Alaska

Each time we had visitors—family or friends—in Fairbanks, the Riverboat was an absolute must. It’s one of the best tours in town!

Even Matt, my husband, who has over a decade more experience in Alaska than I do, always finds something to enjoy on each trip.

Yes, it’s a popular spot, and you will likely find yourself amidst a crowd. However, it is not overwhelming at all – the boat is spacious enough to ensure everyone gets a stellar view of the sights and the beautiful riverbanks.

You can move from port to starboard during the boat ride to catch all the best photo opportunities or sit inside the entire time.

You’ll be able to capture photos of the floatplane taking off and the adorable sled dogs as they show off their skills. It’s these demos that truly showcase the vibrant spirit of Alaska.

I recently took my kids on the riverboat in July 2024 (it was my son’s first time and the last time I took my daughter she was a toddler!) and they loved it. It’s a GREAT tour to enjoy with kids no matter their age.

They were won over pretty quickly when complimentary donuts were offered at the beginning, too. And, yes, you can also purchase coffee to go with your donut!

Who doesn’t love float planes, donuts, and frolicking huskies, right?

My family on the deck of the riverboat. I have curly hair and a headband and am smiling while holding my toddler in a baby carrier on her chest. My child is looking toward the camera with a happy expression. Next to us is my husband, Matt, wearing sunglasses and a plaid shirt, casually leaning on the railing. The sky above is overcast, adding a soft light to the scene.

Towards the end of the tour, don’t miss out on the fresh smoked salmon dip on crackers. It’s SO good. Don’t be shy about asking for seconds (or even thirds like my kids)!

It’s the perfect snack to keep you amused on the ride back, especially if your stomach is growling for lunch or dinner. It’s a taste of local cuisine that perfectly complements the scenic ride.

You can even purchase Captain Jim’s canned smoked salmon in the shop back at the landing to bring home or gift to loved ones.

Why The Riverboat Tour is Unforgettable

Curious about what makes this tour so unforgettable? Here’s a peek:

Bush Pilot Demonstration : A float plane pilot skillfully takes off and lands right before your eyes. This is at the start of the tour and you’ll want to be on the starboard (right) side of the vessel to view the whole thing. This is your chance if you’ve never seen a float plane in action!

The image shows a small yellow floatplane (registration N4493E) landing or taking off on a calm body of water. The plane creates gentle ripples as it moves along the surface, with a backdrop of lush green trees and grassy shoreline. The serene surroundings emphasize the natural beauty of the area.

Susan Butcher’s Trail Breaker Kennel : Then you’ll get a close look at Trail Breaker Kennel, where you can learn about dog sledding and see where Iditarod champion Susan Butcher trained her sled dogs.

This is always one of my favorite stops because I LOVE Alaskan huskies (we’ve had two) and it’s a true slice of Alaskan mushing right by the river’s edge.

There are usually puppies too! PUPPIES! The whole demo is very sweet.

This image captures a dog sledding setup, with a group of huskies wearing harnesses near a log cabin. The cabin, adorned with flowers and an old wooden sled mounted above the door, overlooks a fenced area with individual dog kennels. A woman stands nearby, observing the huskies as they rest on a patch of grass.

Athabascan Village : You’ll get off the boat and experience a guided tour of an authentic model of an Athabascan village where you can learn about traditional native lifestyles and craftsmanship.

You can enter the buildings, explore solo, and enjoy several presentations – once again, my favorite is hanging out with the animals! I adore watching the reindeer move about and then getting right in there to pet the huskies at the edge of the dog yard.

An Alaskan Husky up close, with its head poking through a wire fence. The dog has a dark coat with lighter fur around its snout and eyes, and it appears to be smiling with its tongue out. A hand is reaching through the fence to pet the dog, while trees and a dirt area are visible in the background. The setting suggests an outdoor area, possibly a kennel or a park.

River Scenery : The tour allows you to float past classic Fairbanks landscapes and enjoy the peaceful and picturesque scenery along the Chena and Tanana Rivers.

There’s no other way to get this view of Fairbanks – the river’s edge showcases a mish-mash of different types of homes, which is typical for Alaska! It’s a great way to get a closer look at the lifestyle of the river home residents.

FAQS: The Riverboat in Fairbanks, Alaska

If you’ve never been to Fairbanks or if you are new to riverboat cruises you likely have some questions I can help answer for you!

How much does it cost to go on the Riverboat Discovery?

The current prices for the Riverboat Discovery tour in Fairbanks are $89.95 for adults and $49.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Children under 3 can join the tour for free.

How Should I Dress for the Riverboat Discovery Cruise?

As usual in Alaska, layers are your friend. If it is a hot and sunny day, you may wish to bring a light windbreaker to cover up if the breeze is too chilly. However, you can sit inside the boat the entire time and stay super warm if you wish.

There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating or you can stand at the front or back of the boat, too!

Wear sunglasses and a brimmed hat if that is your usual style on sunny days. If the forecast is iffy, pack a raincoat with a hood or stash a fleece in your bag.

I have experienced both chilly and hot riverboat cruises – both are just as enjoyable!

How long is the Riverboat Discovery Tour?

The Riverboat Discovery Tour lasts about 3 hours, with departures at either 8:45 am or 2:00 pm , depending on your ticket choice. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in, which gives you time to browse the gift shop before boarding.

Who owns Riverboat Discovery?

The Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks is owned by the Binkley family. This family has a long history in the riverboat business that stretches back over 100 years and five generations, starting with Charles M. Binkley who began operating boats on the Yukon and its tributaries during the Klondike gold rush.

Today, the business is managed by the descendants of Captain Jim and Mary Binkley, who transitioned the family’s focus to tourism and cultural sharing in 1950.

Getting There: Riverboat Discovery Cruise on the Chena River

A bustling riverside establishment featuring a wooden boardwalk filled with people. The two prominent storefronts are labeled

Set your GPS to 1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709!

Steamboat Landing is just a short drive from downtown Fairbanks so getting to the Riverboat Discovery is easy.

From Downtown Fairbanks:

  • Start on Cushman Street heading south towards 1st Avenue.
  • Turn right onto Airport Way and continue for about 3 miles.
  • Turn left onto Dale Road just after passing Pioneer Park and before the Airport.
  • Follow Dale Road as it curves right and becomes Discovery Drive.
  • Continue on Discovery Drive ; you will see signs directing you to the Riverboat Discovery parking lot.
  • Park in the car section away from the buses.

Free parking is available on-site with ample space for cars and RVs.

Remember, arriving at least 30 minutes before your departure time is recommended, giving you plenty of time to explore the surroundings and visit the gift shop before your river adventure begins.

Don’t just take my word for it, buy your Riverboat Discovery tickets soon and see for yourself why it’s a must-visit in Fairbanks! You won’t be disappointed.

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Heather Kasvinsky is the founder and writer behind Alaska Adventurers. She lived in Fairbanks, Alaska for close to a decade and continues to visit her cabin in McCarthy, bordering Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, as much as possible. Heather shares her best tips and adventure ideas for Alaska travel with readers worldwide to help them plan their trips.

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riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

Riverboat Discovery

  • Address: 1975 Discovery Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709
  • Region: Fairbanks
  • Phone: (907) 479-6673
  • Toll-free: (866) 479-6673
  • Visit Website

Alaska's most memorable adventure. Enjoy a relaxing, entertaining boat cruise on the Chena and Tanana Rivers, including a guided walking tour of the Chena Village. See Susan Butcher's Champion dogs, the wedding of the rivers and Athabascan art.

  • Seasons of Operation: Summer Only

101 Dunkel Street, Suite 111 Fairbanks, AK 99701-4806 Telephone: (907) 456-5774 Visitor Guide Request: 1-800-327-5774 Email:  [email protected] About Explore Fairbanks

riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

Don’t miss the Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks (Local Review)

Last Updated on April 9, 2024

The Riverboat Discovery is a wonderful tour you don’t want to miss if you’re traveling to Fairbanks on your trip to Alaska during the summer months.

I’m a former Alaskan and resident of Fairbanks, and I still work in Alaska part of the year as a tour director. Over the past twenty years, I’ve taken hundreds of people to the Riverboat and been on this tour many times. It never gets old, even after many visits! I’ve never had a guest who didn’t love it or a client who booked it independently (including those who are skeptical of tours!) who didn’t thank me for the recommendation.

Why is the Riverboat such an amazing experience? For one thing, it’s a family owned business for three generations, going back to the busy days of riverboats on Alaska’s rivers. Their hospitality and experience really shine through when you join them for a few hours on the river.

In addition, the Riverboat goes up the Chena River and takes you to places you wouldn’t be able to get to any other way, like the impressive confluence of the Chena and Tanana Rivers. The recreated authenitic Athabascan Chena Village visit is another element that makes this a unique and unforgettable tour.

Listen to my interview with Wade Binkley of the Riverboat Discovery about three generations of life on the river:

Where is the riverboat discovery located.

The Riverboat Discovery is located in Fairbanks, Alaska, along the banks of the Chena River, not far from Fairbanks International Airport.

You can take a taxi or ride share easily to the riverboat landing, or park here if you have a rental car. If a trip on the Riverboat is included in your cruisetour or group tour in Fairbanks, transportation will be provided.

The Riverboat Discovery docked at. the Riverboat landing. There are many pink wildflowers in the foreground. It's a sunny day.

What river is the Riverboat Discovery cruise on?

The Chena River, which flows through Fairbanks to the Tanana River, where the Riverboat cruise turns around.

Who is the Riverboat Discovery experience best for?

Honestly, the Riverboat Discovery is an ideal experience for everyone! I have taken hundreds and maybe thousands of people to the Riverboat and I cannot think of a single person who didn’t like it.

Whether you’re traveling on your own to Fairbanks or part of an organized tour or cruise tour, any age or ability level, this tour is a sure bet for a relaxing and fun morning or afternoon.

What to expect on the Riverboat Discovery

The side of the middle deck on the Riverboat Discovery, with the Chena River and some trees and houses visible around it.

First of all, the Riverboat is big. There is plenty of room to move around on all four decks and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. If you’re sitting indoors there is plenty of room to stand outside as well if you want to go out for photos or fresh air.

There is a galley with snacks and drinks on the first floor and plenty of restrooms.

The tour is about three hours long and takes you downstream on the Chena River to where it meets the Tanana River, with really impressive views of the Tanana at the turnaround point.

The mouth of the Chena River where it flows into the Tanana River seen from the deck of the Riverboat Discovery. There are low sand bars with brush and trees along the sides of the rivers. It's a partly cloudy day

In the middle of the tour you will have the opportunity to visit Chena Village. Chena Village is a created village at the site of an Athabascan fish camp. Here you will learn from young local Native Alaskan guides all about the culture and traditions of the Athabascan people , both modern day as well as in the past and how those traditions have adapted since settlers came to Alaska’s interior.

You’ll see how salmon are smoked and preserved as well as other ways of preserving food for Alaska’s harsh winters, and all about traditional dress. It’s a fun and educational experience that also allows for time to explore the village on your own.

A log cabin with a porch and a grass roof with moose antlers on top. There are several colorful hanging baskets in front and a sign says "Chena Village Alaska"

You’ll also pass Trailbreaker Kennel, home of the late Susan Butcher, a four time Iditarod winner. Susan’s husband Dave shares about the kennel and the sport of dog mushing and does a cart run with his dog team. Usually you also get to see at least one puppy running around! You’ll also get to learn Susan’s inspiring story and legacy.

A green lawn on the bank of a river with a log cabin and many sled dogs. A man is standing near the dos giving a presentation

If you’re interested in shopping, give yourself a little time before or after the tour since their gift shop has an excellent selection and really good prices.

Accessibility and Mobility

The Riverboat Discovery and the landing are fully wheelchair accessible. The Riverboat has four levels and the upper levels are only accessible by stairs, but there is plenty of space on the first level. Make sure to let them know if you’ll be using a wheelchair, that way they can help you with boarding very efficiently.

When does the Riverboat Discovery operate?

The Riverboat Discovery is a summer experience in Fairbanks. After the ice breaks up and the river has enough water the Riverboat starts operating, generally in mid May. It continues until early fall, usually mid to late September.

How long is the Riverboat Discovery cruise?

The Riverboat Discovery is about three hours. The morning Riverboat is 8:45 am-11:45 am and the afternoon is 2pm-5pm.

Is there food on board the boat?

Yes! They have hot dogs and chili on the boat for purchase and in the morning they have complimentary coffee and blueberry donuts (yum!). They have a few other snacks available for purchase as well.

They also serve lunch at the landing between the morning and afternoon trip, which is super convenient. They have salads, sandwiches and wraps. There is also a sit down lunch from 11:45 am – 1pm offering a set menu of stew, roasted vegetables, salad and dessert.

Is there wifi or cell service?

There is no wifi on board the boat, however there is decent cell service on the river where the riverboat goes. This does depend a bit on your cell provider and if you can roam in Alaska on your plan if you’re a visitor.

Are there restrooms on board the Riverboat Discovery?

Yes, there are lots of restrooms on the Riverboat, with flushing toilets and running water. There are also restrooms at the landing.

What to wear for the Riverboat Discovery

In mid summer, Fairbanks is generally very dry and often quite hot. Most days in mid June through early August are in the 70s and 80s, occasionally hotter. There can be rain showers or cooler weather any day, so I always recommend bringing and extra layer or a rain jacket.

The boat ride is generally not as windy as boat tours on the open ocean, since the boat isn’t moving as fast.

In early and late season it can definitely be raining or chilly. If you start in the morning and it’s cold, it might be warm in the afternoon so make sure you have a couple of layers to stay comfortable.

Costs and Booking

If you are visiting Fairbanks as part of a cruisetour or other organized tour, check to see if the Riverboat Discovery is already included as part of your time in Fairbanks. If not, you can book it on your own (or possibly through your guide, check with them).

If you’re traveling on your own to Fairbanks, you can book directly through their website .

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Riverboat Discovery Sternwheeler Cruise in Fairbanks

Get a taste of the colorful history and cultural traditions in the great interior region of alaska..

riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

Photo Journey:

Home » City-Based Day Tours » Fairbanks » Riverboat Discovery Sternwheeler Cruise in Fairbanks

Day Tour Details

What's included:.

  • Narrated tour onboard the Riverboat Discovery III
  • All taxes and fees

What's Not Included:

Meals and transfers to and from your hotel.

Riverboat Discovery Cruise Experience: Take a Video Tour:

Dates & Rates

Contact us to book this tour..

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

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We had the visit of a lifetime! We had two nights at the Marriott and two nights at the Borealis Basecamp. Totally unique experience in the igloo-like room! The clear acrylic ceiling and window made the most awesome north facing view, perfect for seeing the wondrous northern lights! ... Read more  

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IMAGES

  1. Riverboat Discovery

    riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

  2. Riverboat Discovery Cruise Fairbanks

    riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

  3. Riverboat Discovery sternwheeler on Chena and Tanana Rivers Fairbanks

    riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

  4. RIVERBOAT DISCOVERY (Fairbanks): Ce qu'il faut savoir

    riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

  5. Mille Fiori Favoriti: Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks, Alaska

    riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

  6. Riverboat Discovery (Fairbanks)

    riverboat discovery in fairbanks alaska

COMMENTS

  1. Riverboat Discovery

    We recommend allowing 20 minutes to get from downtown Fairbanks to the Riverboat Discovery. ... 1975 Discovery Drive Fairbanks, AK 99709. 1-866-479-6673. 907-479-6673. [email protected]. Feedback Page. AFFILIATES. Gold Dredge 8. Captain Jim's Salmon. PARTNERS. Adventure Green Alaska.

  2. Riverboat Discovery

    1975 Discovery Drive Fairbanks, AK 99709. By Car: The Riverboat Discovery is located minutes away from the Fairbanks International Airport. Take Airport Way west toward the airport, turn right onto Dale Road, the access road, and follow the signs to their property. Guests will board the Riverboat Discovery at Steamboat Landing.

  3. RiverBoat Discovery

    Everything you need to know for your Riverboat Discovery Experience. DINING OPTIONS. ... 1975 Discovery Drive Fairbanks, AK 99709. 1-866-479-6673. 907-479-6673. [email protected]. Feedback Page. AFFILIATES. Gold Dredge 8. Captain Jim's Salmon. PARTNERS. Adventure Green Alaska.

  4. Riverboat Discovery

    Riverboat Discovery. SEASONAL BUSINESS open May 10, 2024 to September 21, 2024. Two tours daily departing at 8:45AM & 2:00PM. Please call ahead if visiting in May or September. This is more than just a boat ride! Board the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery for one of the most unique Alaskan experiences available!

  5. Riverboat Discovery Cruise Fairbanks

    Many local hotels offer shuttles to the Riverboat Discovery. Guests must coordinate their own transportation to the tour. 1975 Discovery Drive. Fairbanks, Alaska 99709. Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a for nearly everything we sell. Child rates apply to children under the age of 13.

  6. Riverboat Discovery

    More than just a boat ride! Board the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery for one of the most unique Alaskan experiences available! This three-hour cruise will take you into the heart of Alaska and introduce you to a family who has made the rivers of Alaska a way of life for five generations. You will see a bush floatplane takeoff alongside the boat, visit the home and kennels of the late four ...

  7. Fairbanks Riverboat Discovery Cruise & Tour

    This tour can only be booked in conjunction with a Gray Line Alaska package. To add this tour to your package, please call 1-888-425-1737. Board an authentic sternwheeler near Fairbanks, Alaska for the Riverboat Discovery Cruise, a journey along the convergence of the Chena and Tanana rivers.

  8. Riverboat Discovery

    SEASONAL BUSINESS open May 11, 2022 to September 17, 2022. Two tours daily departing at 8:45AM & 2:00PM. Please call ahead if visiting in May or September. More than just a boat ride! Board the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery for one of the most unique Alaskan experiences available! This three-hour cruise will take you into the heart of Alaska ...

  9. Why the Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks Should Top Your List

    Set your GPS to 1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709! Steamboat Landing is just a short drive from downtown Fairbanks so getting to the Riverboat Discovery is easy. From Downtown Fairbanks: Start on Cushman Street heading south towards 1st Avenue. Turn right onto Airport Way and continue for about 3 miles.

  10. 2024 (Fairbanks) Riverboat Discovery Tour

    The Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks is a quaint look back to how some travel was done in early Alaska. There are well choregraphed bush pilot, dog sledding, native fishing village stops along the journey. We found them interesting, full of history, new-to-us facts and humor injected into the presentations.

  11. Riverboat Discovery Tour 2024

    The experience was enlightening, educational and the view was spectacular. Helpful. See 1,319 more reviews on Tripadvisor. Half-day Tours in Fairbanks: Check out 1574 reviews and photos of Viator's Riverboat Discovery Tour.

  12. Riverboat Discovery

    Riverboat Discovery was an added land/tour excursion by Princess at our final destination in Fairbanks, Ak. The bus ride from Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge to Fairbanks, Ak was about 2 hours 15 mins with a stop in Nenana, Ak. (Nenana Artisan Market - Check out review) . We arrived to the home stop of the Riverboat Discovery where one can ...

  13. Riverboat Discovery

    Riverboat Discovery. SEASONAL BUSINESS open May 10, 2024 to September 21, 2024. Two tours daily departing at 8:45AM & 2:00PM. Please call ahead if visiting in May or September. This is more than just a boat ride! Board the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery for one of the most unique Alaskan experiences available!

  14. Riverboat Discovery

    Riverboat Discovery. Address: 1975 Discovery Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709 Region: Fairbanks Phone: (907) 479-6673; Toll-free: (866) 479-6673; Visit Website; Send Email; About +-Alaska's most memorable adventure. Enjoy a relaxing, entertaining boat cruise on the Chena and Tanana Rivers, including a guided walking tour of the Chena Village.

  15. Don't miss the Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks (Local Review)

    What to wear for the Riverboat Discovery. In mid summer, Fairbanks is generally very dry and often quite hot. Most days in mid June through early August are in the 70s and 80s, occasionally hotter. There can be rain showers or cooler weather any day, so I always recommend bringing and extra layer or a rain jacket.

  16. Fairbanks Riverboat Tours

    Riverboat Discovery. 1 Map Website. $89.95 3 hrs. Climb on board an authen­tic Alaskan stern­wheel­er, the River­boat Dis­cov­ery, and take a jour­ney back in time along the Chena and Tanana rivers. Stern­wheel­er boats trans­port you out into the Alaskan wilder­ness, and also back to a time when Gold Rush fever was sweep­ing across ...

  17. 2024 (Fairbanks) Riverboat Discovery Tour

    Itinerary. You'll start at. 1975 Discovery Dr. 1975 Discovery Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA. See address & details. 1. Riverboat Discovery. Stop: 3 hours - Admission included. Your three-hour cruise will take you into the heart of Alaska and introduce you to a family who has made the rivers of Alaska a way of life for five generations.

  18. RIVERBOAT DISCOVERY

    Riverboat Discovery. SEASONAL BUSINESS open May 10, 2024 to September 21, 2024. Two tours daily departing at 8:45AM & 2:00PM. Please call ahead if visiting in May or September. This is more than just a boat ride! Board the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery for one of the most unique Alaskan experiences available!

  19. Riverboat Discovery

    The Riverboat Discovery business was founded in 1950 by Jim and Mary Binkley. [1] The Binkleys were approached in 1950 by Alaska tourism entrepreneur Chuck West, who expressed interest in a local river tour in Fairbanks, Alaska, and asked if they could provide such a service. [2] Mary and Jim initially operated a small converted missionary boat, the Godspeed, on tours of the rivers near Fairbanks.

  20. Sternwheeler Riverboat Cruise in Fairbanks

    May 27 - August 31, 2024. Child rate: $66. Child age: 3 to 12 years old. Tour overview: The perfect Fairbanks day tour combines river views and Alaska Native history and traditions! Climb aboard the Riverboat Discovery III for an unforgettable 3-hour cruise into Alaska's history. Travel the Chena and Tanana Rivers on Alaska's only authentic ...

  21. Riverboat Discovery

    Riverboat Discovery, Fairbanks, Alaska. 4,117 likes · 61 talking about this · 20,134 were here. 2024 Dates of Operation: May 10th-September 21st Tour Times: 8:45AM & 2:00PM Duration: Three hours Riverboat Discovery | Fairbanks AK

  22. Fairbanks River Cruise & Gold Dredge 8 Tour

    Approximately 7 1/2 hours. Price From. $169.95 Per Person. Easy Activity Level. Meal Provided. Shopping Opportunities. Wheelchair Accessible. Board the only remaining authentic Alaska sternwheeler for a cruise along the Chena and Tanana rivers in Chena River State Recreation Area. During this narrated cruise, you will witness the unique line ...

  23. 2024 (Fairbanks) Riverboat Discovery Tour

    The Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks is a quaint look back to how some travel was done in early Alaska. There are well choregraphed bush pilot, dog sledding, native fishing village stops along the journey. We found them interesting, full of history, new-to-us facts and humor injected into the presentations.