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Highlights
- Begin a relaxing escape from Fairbanks by spending an evening at Chena Hot Springs Resort, which includes round-trip transfers between hotels.
- Relax in Alaska's renowned natural hot springs and visit the Aurora Ice Museum, open all year.
- Savor your dinner at the resort restaurant during reserved dining hours before continuing with your Arctic journey (meal is not included).
- Travel alongside an experienced aurora guide who keeps a close watch on weather and sky conditions throughout the evening.
- Conclude your tour by searching for the Northern Lights in areas free from city lights, then return to Fairbanks.
Your Experience
Spend an memorable 10-hour night exploring Chena Hot Springs Resort's natural hot springs and Aurora Ice Museum before embarking on a guided tour in search of northern lights.
Getting started
Your journey begins with pickup from your Fairbanks hotel, where you'll board a climate-controlled vehicle for the drive to Chena Hot Springs. A professional guide specializing in northern lights will introduce the evening's itinerary, including time at the hot springs, entry into the Aurora Ice Museum, and your standing dinner reservation at the resort restaurant.
Chena Hot Springs Resort
You'll arrive at Chena Hot Springs Resort late afternoon to enjoy several hours of relaxation before nightfall. Your evening will be split between soaking in the hot springs, exploring the Aurora Ice Museum, and enjoying your pre-arranged dinner slot.
- Access bathing facilities using resort pool passes for both outdoor hot springs pools at Chena Hot Springs and indoor swimming areas. Note that adults may enter the outdoor rock pool while all ages are welcome indoors, adhering to age restrictions set by the resort.
- The naturally heated mineral water of the outdoor hot springs offers a stark contrast to Alaskan air temperatures, with icy steps and pool edges in winter; waterproof sandals or water shoes are recommended for safety.
- Your standing dinner reservation at the resort restaurant ensures you have a dining slot during this busy evening. Please note that meals are not included—bring cash or card to order directly from the menu.
- Swimsuits are required for pool use, and towel rental is available at an additional fee if needed. The tour is minimally physically demanding but may present challenges due to steps around the pools for guests with limited mobility.
Aurora Ice Museum
Your time at Chena Hot Springs includes a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum, constructed from ice and snow as a signature feature of the resort. Your entry is timed so you can explore before heading out on your late-night aurora search.
- Admission allows you to walk through this unique frozen environment, focusing on exploration rather than an art tour.
- Your visit timing at the Aurora Ice Museum aligns with other evening activities like hot springs soaking and dinner reservations. Note that ice glass apple martinis available onsite are not included in your tour price.
Northern lights tour and return drive
After visiting the resort, you'll join your group for a late-night drive back toward Fairbanks with stops dedicated to aurora viewing.
- Your round-trip transfer from Fairbanks hotels is in a climate-controlled vehicle that includes several aurora viewing opportunities. Your guide will select locations offering clearer skies when possible.
- Benefit from your professional guide's expertise on northern lights forecasts and typical conditions, though sightings are not guaranteed due to their natural variability.
- The return drive offers chances for outdoor aurora hunting at selected stops; dress warmly in layers suitable for temperatures between -20°F and -40°F. The tour runs approximately 10 hours from about 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM, so plan accordingly for energy levels.
At the end of your northern lights adventure, you'll be returned to Fairbanks and dropped off at your hotel. You can choose to rest after this late-night experience or enjoy a leisurely morning afterward.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Northern Lights viewing experience
- Access to Chena Hot Springs
- Admission to the Aurora Ice Museum
- Round-trip transport from Fairbanks city hotels
- Exploration of geothermal energy sources
- Daytime guided visit at both Chena Hot Springs and Aurora Ice Museum
- Dinner at the Chena Hot Springs restaurant
- Rental of a towel
- A swimsuit is required
- Ice glass apple martini available at Aurora Ice Museum
- Geothermal renewable energy tour as an optional activity
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Must Know
- Bring a swimsuit for Chena Hot Springs and consider purchasing one at the resort shop if needed.
- Carry your own towel to avoid renting one at the resort.
- Wear waterproof sandals or water shoes when walking around the pools, and dress in warm winter clothing with layers suitable for temperatures from -20°F to -40°F for aurora viewing.
- Cash or a card is needed for dinner and any optional activities during your visit.
Ticket Delivery
- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 168 hours before the experience starts.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.