North Pole, Alaska (pop. 1600) One of Alaska’s most unique communities is North Pole, 14 miles/22.5 km southeast of Fairbanks.  It is best known as the home of Santa Claus’ House but has a large number of businesses that cater to the traveling public. Restaurants, motel, campgrounds, supermarket and a shopping center are conveniently located near the Richardson Highway.

History
This area was first homesteaded in 1944 by a farmer named Davis, but did not gain much recognition until 1953 when North Pole was incorporated as a town. An enterprising merchant named Con Miller moved his store from Fairbanks and began a tradition that is still going on today. Miller had already developed a reputation for playing Santa Claus to the Native children in the Alaskan Villages, and so he named his new trading post Santa Claus House.

Information/Emergency
North Pole Visitor Information Center, mile 348.7/km 561.2 (1505.5) Open June through August.

North Pole Library, 301 Snowman Lane, 907-488-6101. Internet access.

Emergency only 911: Troopers 452-2114, North Pole Police 488-6902, Fire 488-2232.

Tesoro 2Go - gas and oil products, 3392 Badger Rd., 907-488-4599.

Shopping
Santa Claus House features a great toy department as well as a traditional well-stocked gift shop. The Santa Claus House exterior, which includes a giant Santa, is a favorite photo subject. For many years, The Miller family, owners of Santa Claus House, devoted much of their time to creating a real Christmas for the less fortunate children in isolated areas of Alaska. By answering letters from children all over the world, they have made the “home of Santa Claus” a reality.

Camping
SantaLand RV Park Close to shopping, post office, and next door to Santa Claus House, North Pole's most famous attraction. City water, free private shower rooms, laundromat, pull-throughs, full-and partial-hook-ups, cable TV. Tent sites. Modem friendly. Vehicle wash. Shuttle bus, state wide tour reservations. Seniors discount, Good Sam Park. Make sure you see Santa's reindeer. 907 488-9123, PO Box 55317, 125 St. Nicholas Drive, North Pole, AK 99705; 907-488-9123 or toll free 1-888-488-9123.