Riverboat Discovery & Gold Dredge 8
Riverboat Discovery & Gold Dredge 8 Overview
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About Riverboat Discovery & Gold Dredge 8
Riverboat Discovery & Gold Dredge 8 is a family-owned tour company based in Fairbanks, Alaska. It offers immersive experiences that delve into the region's rich history and culture.
The company operates two distinct attractions: the Riverboat Discovery and Gold Dredge 8, each providing unique insights into Alaska's heritage.
Riverboat Discovery
Established in 1950 by Captain Jim and Mary Binkley, the Riverboat Discovery offers a 3-hour tour along the Chena and Tanana rivers aboard authentic sternwheeler riverboats.
Guests embark on a journey showcasing the area's history, wildlife, and indigenous cultures. Highlights include a live bush pilot demonstration and a visit to the Trail Breaker Kennel to meet sled dogs.
Visitors also stop at Chena Village, a replica of an Athabascan Indian village, where they learn about traditional lifestyles. The tour provides an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.
Gold Dredge 8
Gold Dredge 8 offers a 2-hour tour immersing visitors in Alaska's gold mining history. The experience starts with a ride on a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad, transporting guests to the historic gold dredge.
Visitors can observe a live demonstration of gold panning and try it themselves, with the chance to keep any gold found. The tour includes a mining museum visit and a close look at Dredge 8.
Dredge 8 is a National Engineering Landmark that extracted millions of ounces of gold from the Alaskan ground, offering a hands-on understanding of gold mining and its importance to Alaska's history.
Locations
Both attractions are located in Fairbanks, Alaska. The specific addresses are:
- Riverboat Discovery: 1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709
- Gold Dredge 8: 1803 Old Steese Highway N, Fairbanks, AK 99712
- Fairbanks, AK, USA (general location)
These locations serve as starting points for their respective tours, offering convenient access to explore Alaska's rich history and culture.
Riverboat Discovery & Gold Dredge 8 remains a cherished family business dedicated to providing authentic and engaging experiences that highlight Alaska's unique heritage.