Fairbanks 2013

I have posted about our yearly tag-along trip to Fairbanks here and here.  This year our glorious Alaskan summer continued and we had more adventures than ever.

Up bright and early we headed North for the 6 hour drive.  Met up with many "Pilot car, follow me" vehicles which delayed our arrival for an hour or so...no matter...we just ate tasty snacks and took in the scenery.

 

Once again we stayed at Pike's Landing, however we lucked out and stayed in one of their cabins....adorable and very quiet.  Amelia plopped herself into bed the minute we arrived and watched a bit of tv until we headed out to try the new bocce ball game, installed since last time we were there.  You can see the cabins in the 2nd pic.

The next morning dropped Rob off at work and Amelia and I enjoyed a bit more bocce and found the practicing green that she had so much fun at last year.  

Went to look for the ducks...uh oh...

not such a Lucky Duck Hotel.  She says she no longer likes foxes.

Next, went for our now routine trip to the Museum of the North at the University of Fairbanks campus.

Like I mentioned in previous years posts, it's rather small, but a must see if visiting Fairbanks.  Of course, Uni the Unicorn had to join us, even though I suggested he stay in the car. Overruled.

We loved last year's rotating children's exhibit was we stayed for a good hour.  This year they had a learning spot for kids.  While Amelia thoroughly enjoyed herself, it was much smaller than the exhibit a year ago.

Moving on... we went to see some of the sights outside.

Then we headed to Pioneer Park for some outdoor fun.

I really do enjoy this park as there are few people and quite a lot to do.  Historic buildings filled with shops, train rides and playgrounds, it really is a great place to enjoy a beautiful day. 

The Tanana Valley train ride around the park was up first.

Then a spin on the historic wooden merry go round. 

Then playing at the park.

I got a bit smarter this year and didn't mention Santa at all prior to arriving at Santa's House.  "Lets go see some reindeer!" is all I said...she figured it was a zoo.  Last year she had a melt down when we mentioned we were going to see Santa.  This year...much braver!  She might actually sit on his lap next year!  Greatest Santa ever.

I never had been to the pipeline viewing area in Fairbanks, so we did a quick stop to check it off my list :)

Amelia was transfixed watching a tourists climb onto the pipeline when it clearly stated to stay off.  Only breaking her gaze when he finally saw the sign and jumped off.  

On the way home a stop in Denali's Visitor Center for lunch and a view of "The High One" (Denali) at the North viewing point on a picture perfect day (Amelia was dozing in the car when I snuck out for a couple shots).

Til next year!