Museum of the North at University of Alaska – Fairbanks

Museum of the NorthI remember enjoying the Museum of the North as a child.  I think it’s the best history and wildlife museum in Alaska.  There are Native American, World War II, Gemstone, Animal, Fossil, and Art displays.

Blue Babe

One display that really stands out to me is Blue Babe.  Blue Babe is a prehistoric Alaska steppe bison that was found in 1979.  It was named Blue Babe because of the bluish skin color.  Due to permafrost the bison was found in near perfect condition (besides it being dead for a lot of years).  I remember reading about it growing up and I don’t recall it being on display when I last visited.  Note:  The display is a reconstruction.

Reconstruction of Blue Babe

Please Touch

Something not allowed at many museums is displays that can be touched (like mammoth and mastodon teeth, crystals, and fossilized bones).

Mastadon and Mammoth Teeth

Photos

Here are some photos to give a feel for what can be seen.

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Additional Museum Information

  • The museum is located on the University of Alaska, Fairbanks campus.
  • General admission is $10 for adults, $9 for senior citizens, and $5 for children (7-17).  Free for University of Alaska students with ID.
  • They show a few movies in the museum and the cost for those is $5 (for all).
  • They also have an audio tour for $4.
  • For more information check out their website.

More about My Trip

To see all post about my Alaska/Canada Road Trip click here.

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