Gold Rush days of Alaska happened in the early 1900’s when prospectors and fortune seekers from all over the world rushed to one tiny outpost in the West to another, chasing gold dust and dreams of a better future. From that time forward, the newly arrived residents of Alaska’s interior carved a life, and a town, out of the often inhospitable wilderness. The Alaskans who braved the conditions long before the cushy latte huts and high-speed internet of today are referred as the pioneers.
To celebrate the pioneers, an amazing community park was constructed for the 1967 celebration of the 100th year anniversary of Alaska being purchased from Russia. The Park opened on May 27, 1967 for the Alaska ‘67 Centennial Exposition and has been a focal point for community gathering and recreation, tourism and industry ever since. Explore history or simply play in the sunshine at Pioneer Park right in the middle of Fairbanks, the golden heart of the interior.
The entrance of Pioneer Park is bright and welcoming. The vibrant flower beds are well maintained all across the park.
The Pioneer Museum is set up to look like a building from 1900. It's filled with artifacts from early residents and historical information about what life was really like over 100 years ago.
Pieces of mining equipment and explanations for how they were used are on display. There's even a tunnel that shows what it was like underground in a real gold mine of the past.
The Palace Theater has a show nightly in the summer months about the history of Fairbanks. The building used to be the town's main store: Golden's Grocery.
The Harding Car is a passenger railroad car that President Warren G. Harding rode in this car when he came to Alaska in 1923 to drive the Golden Spike for the Alaska Railroad. It is a peaceful spot for reflection and occasionally holds small events.
The Riverboat Nenana was is a sternwheeler, refered to as the "Queen of the Yukon." This sternwheeler is the second largest wooden hull vessel in the world, and was named a National Historical Landmark in 1989.
What community park is complete without miniature golf? Playgrounds for kids, a 1920's carousel and comfortable lawns cover the park for family friendly fun for all ages.
This mask is displayed on the side of the Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts. Inside, you'll also find the Bear Gallery, a place to see monthly art exhibitions.
No trip to Pioneer Park is complete without a ride on the train! The Tanana Valley Railroad Museum is also the depot for a short train ride around the edge of the park.
