Meet Santa’s reindeer at the Antler Academy of Flying & Reindeer Games in North Pole. (Photo by Kris Valencia)

Population: 2,138

North Pole is located on the Richardson Highway, approximately 14 miles southeast of Fairbanks.

Visitor information: Visitor Information Cabin, across the Richardson Highway from the Santa Claus House, at 2550 Mistletoe Dr.; P.O. Box 55071, North Pole, AK 99705.

North Pole had its beginnings in 1944, when Bon V. and Bernice Davis homesteaded this area. Dahl and Gaske Development Co. bought the Davis homestead, subdivided it and named it North Pole, hoping to attract a toy manufacturer who could advertise products as being made in North Pole. Although the toy industry did not materialize, the city incorporated in 1953 and developed as a theme city. Today, North Pole is the home of many Fairbanks commuters. Eielson AFB and Fort Wainwright military bases are nearby.

North Pole has all visitor services, including restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets, a pharmacy and other services. The post office is on Santa Claus Lane. Lodging at Hotel North Pole. Camping at Fairbanks / Chena River KOA on Badger Road.

Attractions:

  • Local landmark and long-time visitor attraction Santa Claus House was started by Con and Nellie Miller in 1952. The brightly decorated store is open  year-round and visitors can shop for Christmas ornaments in July while their children tell Santa what they want for Christmas.
  • The Antler Academy is next to the Santa Claus House. Stop in to meet Santa’s reindeer.
  • Radio station KJNP (King Jesus North Pole), operated by Calvary’s Northern Lights Mission, broadcasts music and religious programs on 1170 AM and 100.3 FM. Visitors are welcome to tour the mission, which includes sod-roofed homes and other buildings constructed of spruce logs.
  • The Visitor Information Cabin has Alaska-made crafts and gifts, souvenirs and travel information.