Commemorating early Alaskan history with multiple museums and historic displays, Pioneer Park has become one of the top attractions in Fairbanks, Alaska. Embracing the legacy of the people and region, the park has literal pieces of history alongside features that resonate with audiences on multiple levels. It showcases how the various elements that define a community can be pulled together to create engagement across the eras.
Celebrating the Centennial of the Alaska Purchase
Opened in 1967 as part of the Alaska ‘67 Centennial Exposition, the park originally featured a zoo and a few rides. Meant to be a celebration of the 100th anniversary of Alaska’s purchase from Russia, it would come to be known as “Alaska 67.” In short order it was renamed by a Fairbanks mayor as “Alaskaland.” In 2001 the name was changed again to “Pioneer Park” to reflect how the space is a collection of culture and history rather than an amusement park.
Featuring original buildings moved from early Fairbanks, Pioneer Park has numerous pieces of local history. These buildings have markers that call out their history, ranging from the first church to a house owned by a famous judge. Most have been restored to house gift shops and other stores.
In addition to these buildings, the park also contains the Denali Observation car (or “Harding Railroad Car”) and the SS Nenana. Additionally, the Pioneer Museum, the Pioneer Air Museum and Tanana Valley Railroad Museum all feature distinct pieces of Alaskan history and culture. A mini-train takes people for a ride around the park, complete with a guide sharing information about all of these features.
The Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts was built in 1967 to resemble a southeast Alaska tribal hall. It features a gallery, theater and Exhibit Hall that allows it to host a variety of activities. However, that’s not the only place audiences can take part in an event or engage with their surroundings at Pioneer Park.
Pieces of History and Contemporary Culture
While there is no admission fee to enter Pioneer Park, many of the museums and attractions have a suggested or set admission price. Concessions are open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day and visitors can have distinct experiences in the summer and the winter, with different shops and stores open throughout the year.
Numerous events take place at Pioneer Park all year long, ranging from a Mush for Kids event to a Military Appreciation Day to the Pioneer Park Holiday Bazaar. Pioneer Park also offers four picnic shelters for rent in various locations within the Park. Various activities like the Alaska Salmon Bake take place on a regular basis in the park as well.
A 3-hole disc golf course, playground, and carousel are interspersed amidst the pieces of Alaska culture and history, providing audiences with a variety of things to do. An assortment of shops and restaurants provide even more options, highlighting what it can mean for a legacy to shape the experiences of audiences in the present and future.
Legacy and History
Referred to as an old-fashioned theme park, Pioneer Park is a collection of history and legacy that might have otherwise been lost or discarded. Pulling these elements together in such a thoughtful manner has allowed that history and legacy to be both celebrated and to grow, highlighting the incredible economic and cultural impact that can be enabled when such elements are pulled together.
