North Pole, Alaska (pop. 1900) 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. Restaurants, motel, 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 561.2 907-488-8118 Open June through August.

North Pole Library, 601 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., 907-488-4329

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.