The Pump House occupies a converted gold-rush-era water pumping station on the banks of the Chena River, about four miles west of downtown. The building itself is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the interior is packed with mining-era artifacts, antique equipment, and historical photographs that give it the feel of a museum you can eat dinner in.
The menu leans heavily on Alaskan seafood — king crab legs, halibut, and wild salmon — along with steaks and prime rib. Prices are high (expect $40-60 for an entree), but the combination of the riverside setting, the historic building, and the quality of the food makes this the most memorable dinner in Fairbanks. In summer, request a table on the deck overlooking the river. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season.