Entertainment in Gold Rush Town at Pioneer Park
The Alaska Purchase was completed in 1867 and one hundred years later the city of Fairbanks built its “Alaskaland” park as part of the Centennial Exposition in the city. In 2001 the city renamed the area “Pioneer Park“, because it is a community park as well as a tourist destination. Within its forty four acres are many separate neighborhoods and regions, each with a specific purpose.
One of the most frequently visited areas is the “Gold Rush Town” which is made up of thirty five, fully restored buildings from the city’s historic past. Within Gold Rush Town is the Palace Theatre. Here thousands of visitors travel each year to see a showing of the famous “Golden Heart Revue”.
The comical story of an early 1900s prospector, the musical show was composed by Fairbanks native, Jim Bell, and is a wonderful tribute to the people and many characters of the era.
Near to Gold Rush Town is the wildly popular Alaska Salmon Bake Restaurant, and most theater goers make a point of taking the brief stroll into “Mining Valley” to enjoy the hearty Alaskan fare specially prepared at the restaurant. In fact, the combination is so popular that plans to enjoy both the show and dinner is a “must” for those hoping to truly experience the best that Fairbanks has to offer.
