Title: Large house on 3 acres on the chena river - Latest Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025 - Expedia.ca [See all properties](http://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire home # Large house on 3 acres on the chena river ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/92000000/91750000/91749700/91749675/0c1c48df.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/92000000/91750000/91749700/91749675/6324843a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Smart TV, fireplace, offices](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/92000000/91750000/91749700/91749675/c58de91d.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/92000000/91750000/91749700/91749675/7a8afa96.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![3 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, travel crib](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/92000000/91750000/91749700/91749675/33ec8454.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Amenities - Policies - Location Experience the warmth of this Fairbanks home, nestled on 3 park-like acres along the Chena River. Unwind in your private hot tub or explore the outdoors from your own little gravel beach where you can put kayaks into the water. Inside, enjoy a large living area with plenty of seating and a beautiful kitchen. 10 Exceptional ### Entire home 3 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 123300 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Parking available - Gym - Hot tub - Dryer - Pool - Washer ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### Large house on 3 acres on the chena river Stay at this Fairbanks home lived in by Governor Frank Murkowski and enjoy the river right out the back door.This home was part of the original 165 acre dairy farm from 1930. It is located on 3 park like acres on the Chena River with your own private hot tub. It has a large living area with plenty of seating, beautiful kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, 2 half baths, dining room, a small bar and office area. In the basement is an additional sleeping area and a full gym. We are local so if you have any questions or need anything please reach out but all our properties are self check in and check out. The house is located right off a busy street so there might be some road noise. But it is located on 3 acres directly on the chena river with its own little gravel beach to put your kayaks into the water. You have sole access to the whole house except for the garage and the supply closets. The yard is shared with the train car vacation rental. It has a large living area with plenty of seating, beautiful kitchen with a commercial sized range with 2 ovens and a wine fridge. The house has 3 bedrooms upstairs. The main bedroom has a king bed with a private seating area and on suite bathroom. The other 2 bedrooms have a queen bed each and the larger bedroom has a twin sized bed too. There is also a hall bathroom with a shower and tub combo on the 3rd floor. The main floor has a large living room, big kitchen, stylish dinning area, 2 half bathrooms and a room that has a small bar and built in desk. Both the dining room and room with a bar open up on to a massive cedar deck. There is a full sized futon in the living room on the main level. Down stairs is another sleeping area with a bunk bed that has a full sized bed on the bottom and a twin sized bed on top. The other part of the basement has a full gym that includes; a stationary bike, treadmill, dumbbells, free weights and a weight bench with a bar. We recommend renting a 4 wheel drive or AWD car during your stay as the area's attractions are spread out. The homestead and dairy originally consisted of approximately 165 acres. It was farmed for winter wheat and pea vines as that was the basic food source for the dairy cows. The anecdotal history of the house begins back in the 1930’s. The cabin was built first, and later the barn. You can still see the original logs under the crawl space in the garage and the front entry of the cabin was where the walk in pantry is now. The barn was built specifically to milk the cows and hay was stored in the hayloft above. If you look in the back of the barn there used to be two openings . Three of the boxcars were situated in a row so that the cows would enter one door to be milked and they would exit out the other door into the boxcars where they sheltered in the winter. The cement structure in the front area of the barn still holds the original water trough and the back part of the barn was called, “the milking parlor”. At some point radiant heat was installed under the concrete to warm the barn. There were also two silos on the property, but those deteriorated many years ago. We believe the rail cars originated from the Tanana Valley River Railroad (or Tanana Mines Railroad) which was part of the rail service for the old city of Chena. Chena was the original townsite for Fairbanks and was settled in the early 1900’s. The original cabin was what is now the living room—that’s why the ceiling is so low. Over time, someone jacked up the cabin and dug out a basement. Someone else tacked on four bedrooms upstairs. In the 1960s, contractor George McClanahan and his family lived in the house. He used his heavy equipment to dig out the pool area, framed it in, and lined it with a rubbery material that he had tested at UAF… supposedly it could get to temperatures as cold as -80 without getting brittle. The pool deck was added in the early 80’s using cedar planks brought up from southeastern Alaska. The Murkowski family arrived in the summer of 1971. Over the years, they had horses, numerous dogs, cats, ducks, and chickens. In the late ‘70s, they extended the living room area to the south, and added a small extension to the east for the dining room and office area. When Pope John Paul II and President Ronald Reagan met in Fairbanks in 1984, Reagan’s security detail stayed at the house while Ronald and Nancy Reagan overnighted at the house across the pasture to the north. Around 1992, the Murkowski’s sold the house to daughter, Eileen Van Wyhe and husband Leon. However, her parents still wanted somewhere to stay in Fairbanks. They discussed refitting the barn, and joked about moving into one of the old boxcars. That created an inspiration: Leon worked with Bernie Karl at the time, and there was a retired Alaska Railroad car in Bernie’s salvage yard. It was hauled to the property on a big flatbed, and restored to its original design as a military troop carrier. It was wider than a standard car and had its own hot water heater. Perfect! In early 2000’s, the Van Wyhes remodeled the top floor to create a master suite, and added a wine cellar and a home gym in the basement. Notes of Interest: The house was built on a knoll and did not suffer damage in the great flood of 1967. It is one of very few homes on the lower Chena River that does not sit on the flood plain. There is a seam of natural gravel that runs through the middle of the south yard to the river. It results in a gravel beach as opposed to most properties along the Chena River that have a mud beach. The assumption is that at one time a creek ran through the property. The flagpole is anchored by an old Volkswagon Beetle engine. There is a large raspberry patch between the Senate car and the other box cars. These are Siberian raspberries which ripen about a week after the wild raspberries. They are twice as big as a wild raspberry and delicious. There is now a private hot tub. ## Property amenities ### Pool/Spa - Hot tub - Pool ### Internet - Available in the house: Free WiFi ### Parking and transportation - Onsite parking options include a garage ### Kitchen - Coffee/tea maker - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Dishwasher - Microwave - Oven - Refrigerator - Stovetop - Toaster ### Dining - Dining table ### Bedrooms - 3 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided - Sofa bed ### Bathroom - 4 bathrooms - Hair dryer - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Dining table - Fireplace ### Entertainment - Games - Smart TV ### Outdoor areas - Barbecue grill - Garden - Patio ### Laundry - Laundry facilities - Washing machine ### Work spaces - Desk - Desk chair - Office ### Comfort - Heating ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - Smoking not allowed ### Services and conveniences - Iron/ironing board ### Location highlights - On a river - On the waterfront ### Things to do - Gym ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) - First aid kit - Fire extinguisher - Deadbolt lock ### General - Garden - Unit size: 3,300 square feet ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM Contactless check-in available Minimum check-in age: 21 ### Check-out Check-out before 11:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions ### Pets Pets not allowed ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation ### Property is also known as 29c97c38-f4fb-493c-972a-47c4b464bcff ## About the area Located in Fairbanks, this vacation home is on the waterfront. University of Alaska Museum of the North and Pioneer Air Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Big Dipper Ice Arena and Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary. Traveling with kids? Consider Fairbanks Ice Museum, or check out an event or a game at Carlson Center Event Arena. [Visit our Fairbanks travel guide](https://www.expedia.ca/Fairbanks.dx1190) [View more Vacation homes in Fairbanks](https://www.expedia.ca/Fairbanks-Private-Vacation-Homes.d1190-aaPrivateVacationHomes.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C64.82212%2C-147.89641&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=wTRktecmRgBkAqJMuSDH91EBmb0=) Fairbanks, AK ### What's nearby - University of Alaska-Fairbanks - 5 min drive - 4.8 km - University of Alaska Museum of the North - 7 min drive - 6.9 km - Pioneer Park - 8 min drive - 8.2 km - Fairbanks Ice Museum - 12 min drive - 12.9 km - Fort Wainwright - 12 min drive - 12.9 km ### Getting around - Fairbanks Intl. Airport (FAI) - 8 min drive ### Restaurants - ‪Starbucks - ‬6 min drive - Fred Meyer Fuel Center - ‪The Pump House - ‬15 min walk - Taco Bell - ‪Starbucks - ‬7 min drive ## Frequently asked questions ### Does Large house on 3 acres on the chena river have a pool? > Yes, this property has a pool. ### Is Large house on 3 acres on the chena river pet-friendly? > No, pets are not allowed at this property. ### What time is check-in at Large house on 3 acres on the chena river? > Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. ### What time is check-out at Large house on 3 acres on the chena river? > Check-out is at 11:00 AM. ### Where is Large house on 3 acres on the chena river located? > This family-friendly Fairbanks vacation home is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Chena River, University of Alaska-Fairbanks and Georgeson Botanical Garden. University of Alaska Museum of the North and Pioneer Park are also within 6 mi (10 km). ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Large house on 3 acres on the chena river Reviews 10 ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.[More information](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 6 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 9.4/10 Cleanliness ### 10/10 Excellent #### Kevin O. Mar 24, 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Great location, viewed northern lights from backyard Very comfortable setting, enjoyed the visit. Easy check in and check out, good communications with the owner. ##### Kevin O. Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jacquelyn M. Jul 5, 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Fairbanks and beyond Nice place to stay as we did day trips around interior Alaska ##### Jacquelyn M. Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Shellie S. Mar 4, 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Wonderful family staycation The home was truly enjoyed by Grandparents to great grandchildren. We enjoyed beautiful family dinners, some local activities and evening shenanigans in the hot tub!! The house gave great vibes. 100% would stay again. ##### Shellie S. Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Angela V. Dec 31, 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Wonderful We had an amazing time with our family. The home was perfect for all of us. Enjoyed the hot tub in -17 weather! ##### Angela V. Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Donna G. Sep 6, 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Fairbanks ease House is big , beds great & plenty of linens/towels, hot tub nice, location perfect, everything needed in the kitchen including awesome spice drawer. Issues with wi-fi but Devin responded quickly & weather/rain/clouds were the main problem. The house is old but has lots of history The river is not really visible from the back deck which was disappointing but. Overall a great stay ! ##### Donna G. Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023 ## Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > [Silver Reef Casino Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Bellingham-Hotels-Silver-Reef-Casino-Resort.h16231932.Hotel-Information) > > [Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Denali-Hotels-Talkeetna-Alaskan-Lodge.h9738650.Hotel-Information) > > [Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Marathon-Hotels-Isla-Bella-Beach-Resort-Spa.h24101706.Hotel-Information) > > [Seward Windsong Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Seward-Hotels-Seward-Windsong-Lodge.h97708.Hotel-Information) > > [Caribou Cabins](https://www.expedia.ca/Tok-Hotels-Caribou-Cabins.h21074204.Hotel-Information) > > [Darien Lake Lodge on the Lake](https://www.expedia.ca/Corfu-Hotels-Darien-Lake-Lodge-On-The-Lake.h13279584.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikoloa](https://www.expedia.ca/Waikoloa-Hotels-Kings-Land-By-Hilton-Grand-Vacations.h2303745.Hotel-Information) > > [Land's End Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Homer-Hotels-Lands-End-Resort.h860785.Hotel-Information) > > [Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth](https://www.expedia.ca/Saginaw-Hotels-Bavarian-Inn-Of-Frankenmuth.h9809515.Hotel-Information) > > [The Trail in Adams - Berkshires’ Art Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Adams-Hotels-Topia-Inn-An-Organic-Oasis.h12259511.Hotel-Information) > > [The Breakers Palm Beach](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Beach-Hotels-The-Breakers-Palm-Beach.h8479.Hotel-Information) > > [The Westin Desert Willow Villas, Palm Desert](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-The-Westin-Desert-Willow-Villas.h3304313.Hotel-Information) > > [Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark](https://www.expedia.ca/Lake-George-Hotels-Six-Flags-Lodge-Indoor-Waterpark.h1385446.Hotel-Information) > > [Riviera Resort Palm Springs](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-Margaritaville-Resort-Palm-Springs.h26011.Hotel-Information) > > [Harrah’s Laughlin - A Caesars Rewards Destination](https://www.expedia.ca/Laughlin-Hotels-Harrahs-Laughlin-Hotel-Casino.h43310.Hotel-Information) > > [The Brook at Turning Stone Resort Casino](https://www.expedia.ca/Utica-Hotels-Turning-Stone-Resort-And-Casino.h1684407.Hotel-Information) > > [Fairmont Orchid](https://www.expedia.ca/Kamuela-Hotels-Fairmont-Orchid.h25190.Hotel-Information) > > [Tulalip Resort Casino](https://www.expedia.ca/Everett-Hotels-Tulalip-Resort-Casino.h2161524.Hotel-Information) > > [JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-JW-Marriott-Desert-Springs-Resort-Spa.h17123.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton Waikoloa Village](https://www.expedia.ca/Waikoloa-Hotels-Hilton-Waikoloa-Village.h19640.Hotel-Information) > > [Hyatt Vacation Club at Desert Oasis](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-Welk-Resorts-Palm-Springs.h1140793.Hotel-Information) > > [Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort and Players Inn](https://www.expedia.ca/Hogansburg-Hotels-Akwesasne-Mohawk-Casino-Resort.h6009138.Hotel-Information) > > [Aspen Suites Hotel Haines](https://www.expedia.ca/Haines-Hotels-Aspen-Suites-Hotel-Haines.h10002872.Hotel-Information) > > [Shooting Star Casino & Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Thief-River-Falls-Hotels-Shooting-Star-Casino-Hotel.h28874246.Hotel-Information) > > [Canad Inns Destination Center Grand Forks](https://www.expedia.ca/Grand-Forks-Hotels-Canad-Inns-Destination-Center-Grand-Forks.h1713856.Hotel-Information) > > [C'mon Inn Hotel & Suites](https://www.expedia.ca/Grand-Forks-Hotels-Cmon-Inn-Hotel-Suites.h1510580.Hotel-Information) > > [Summit Lake Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Moose-Pass-Hotels-Summit-Lake-Lodge.h10240678.Hotel-Information) > > [Angel Of The Winds Casino Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Everett-Hotels-Angel-Of-The-Winds-Casino-Resort.h9689970.Hotel-Information) > > [Marriott's Shadow Ridge](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-Marriotts-Shadow-Ridge.h853695.Hotel-Information) > > [Semiahmoo Resort Golf & Spa, Trademark Collection by Wyndham](https://www.expedia.ca/Bellingham-Hotels-Semiahmoo-Resort-Golf-Spa.h13986.Hotel-Information)