Fairbanks: Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour

A comprehensive look at the Fairbanks: Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour offers an adventurous mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and relaxing hot springs. For about 10 hours, you’ll explore some of Alaska’s most iconic winter attractions — all with the help of knowledgeable guides who know how to find the Northern Lights if Mother Nature cooperates. Priced at a moderate level, it’s a well-rounded experience for those seeking a taste of Alaska’s outdoor magic without the hassle of planning. Two features we love are the guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum — which feels like walking through a frozen fairy tale — and the chance to soak in the outdoor hot springs beneath the starry sky. Both are memorable highlights that add value beyond just chasing the Aurora.

A potential consideration is that, despite efforts, sightings of the Northern Lights are never guaranteed. Overcast skies, weather changes, or simply bad luck can mean a cloudy night might limit your chances. The tour is best suited for travelers who are flexible, eager to experience multiple activities in one day, and prepared for a winter adventure. It’s ideal for anyone interested in wildlife spotting, photography, or just enjoying Alaska’s unique blend of rugged outdoor life and cozy comfort.

Key Points

• Versatile itinerary: Combines museum, hot springs, and Aurora chasing with dinner options.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and dedicated to maximizing Aurora viewing chances.
• Authentic experiences: Enjoy ice sculptures, local cuisine, and rejuvenating mineral waters.
• Weather-dependent: Aurora sightings can vary; cloudy nights might limit visibility.
• Value for money: Includes multiple activities, transportation, and expert guidance.
• Group size: Small groups (up to 14) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Fairbanks Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour

If you’re visiting Fairbanks and want to experience the Arctic in a way that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insight, this tour hits many marks. It’s a 10-hour journey that takes you through some of Alaska’s most celebrated sights — from the icy artistry of the Aurora Ice Museum to the natural healing waters of Chena Hot Springs, all wrapped up with the hope of witnessing the Aurora Borealis dance across the winter sky.

What the Tour Entails: A Day of Discovery and Relaxation

The experience is designed to be both fun and informative. It begins with a scenic drive through Alaska’s interior, which is as much about the views as it is about the wildlife sightings. Guides often spot moose, foxes, or beavers along the way, making the trip visually engaging even before you reach your destination. The small group size (limited to 14 participants) ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and guides are eager to share their knowledge about Alaskan wildlife and local culture.

The first stop is the Aurora Ice Museum, a true Arctic showcase featuring spectacular ice sculptures and an ice bar. You’ll get a guided tour that feels like stepping into an icy wonderland. Many reviewers rave about the ice bar experience — sipping an Appletini in a carved ice glass is a quirky, memorable moment, especially for those over 21. One guest summed it up: “The drink at the ice museum is a must-do, the ice sculptures are beautiful, and it truly feels like stepping into another world.” The museum’s creative displays and the artistry behind the sculptures are a definite highlight, showing off some serious craftsmanship.

Next, you’ll relax with a meal or drinks at the resort restaurant — note that food isn’t included, but reviews indicate the restaurant offers fresh, locally sourced produce. While some travelers found the food mediocre and slow, others appreciated the cozy atmosphere and hearty options. It’s a good chance for a warm-up and to fuel up before the outdoor activities.

Soaking in the Hot Springs: Relaxing Beneath the Stars

The true star of the tour for many is the outdoor hot springs experience. Surrounded by snow and under a sky that might just showcase the Northern Lights, soaking in mineral waters is both soothing and invigorating. Reviewers consistently mention how relaxing the springs are, with some emphasizing the importance of bringing flip-flops or slides to avoid slipping, as locker room floors can be icy and slippery. One guest said, “The hot springs are a treat, especially under the open sky — pure bliss.” Even if the Aurora isn’t visible, the warm waters provide a chance to unwind after a day of exploration.

For children, indoor pools are available, but outdoor access is off-limits for those under 18. So, if you’re traveling with family, this is an important consideration.

Chasing the Aurora Borealis: Hope and Tips

The tour’s primary allure is the chance to see the Northern Lights. Guides are skilled at finding vantage points away from light pollution and will give tips on capturing photos and making the most of the evening. Several reviews praise guides like Gina, Jessica, or Evan for their enthusiasm and dedication to Aurora hunting — even when clouds obscure the view. As one traveler wrote, “Greg was very informative and did his best to find the lights, even driving to less light-polluted spots.” However, the unpredictability of the weather means a sighting is never guaranteed. Cloud cover, snow, or overcast skies can hide the Aurora, an aspect acknowledged by reviewers who despite the weather, appreciated the effort guides put in.

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Additional Activities and Flexibility

Throughout the trip, there’s plenty of opportunity for other activities — strolls around the grounds, photographs of ice sculptures, or simply waiting in cozy spots to catch the Aurora if conditions are right. Some guests mention the importance of bringing snacks and water, as the tour can run late and food options may be limited or slow at the resort. A few reviews pointed out that the tour could benefit from slightly better timing, such as doing the Aurora chase when skies are clearer or more favorable.

Price and Value Considerations

At its core, this tour offers a lot in a single package: transportation, guided tours, entry to the Ice Museum, hot springs, and Aurora chasing. While some thought the restaurant meal was mediocre or the ice museum underwhelming, most felt the overall experience was worth the price. The combination of outdoor hot springs, cultural sights, and the potential for Northern Lights creates a balanced, memorable trip. If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to Fairbanks’ winter attractions, it’s a solid investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation, and are okay with the element of chance involved in Aurora viewing. Nature lovers, photography buffs, and those who appreciate cultural stops like the Ice Museum will find plenty to enjoy. If you’re traveling with kids over 18 or want a straightforward Aurora chase with no frills, this tour offers a friendly, accessible way to get a taste of Alaska’s winter wonderland.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides an engaging and well-rounded way to experience the best of Fairbanks’ winter attractions — from icy artistry to natural thermal waters. Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip informative and fun. The outdoor hot springs, especially under a starry sky, are undeniably a highlight, and the chance to see the Aurora adds that special touch.

While Aurora sightings depend on luck and weather, the effort guides put into finding vantage points makes it worth trying. The tour balances multiple activities without feeling rushed, and the small group size ensures a personal touch.

Ultimately, this experience suits those who want a full day of outdoor adventure, cultural insights, and relaxation, all wrapped in the magic of an Alaskan winter night. Be prepared for some unpredictability, but embrace the chance to see this remarkable corner of the world in all its frosty glory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children under 18?
Children under 18 can enjoy the indoor pools but are not permitted in the outdoor hot springs. It’s best suited for older kids or adults eager for the outdoor experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 10 hours, generally starting in the morning or early afternoon and returning just after midnight, depending on availability and conditions.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, swimwear, towel, water, and cash. For comfort, especially in winter, pack warm layers, gloves, a hat, and sturdy footwear. Don’t forget flip-flops for the hot springs!

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Guides will do their best to find good vantage points, but cloudy skies may limit visibility.

Is the food at the resort included?
No, meals are not included. The resort restaurant offers locally sourced dishes, though some reviews mention the food can be slow or mediocre. It’s wise to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Adverse weather like heavy clouds or snowfall can obscure the Aurora or affect activities. Guides are experienced in adjusting plans, but the Aurora’s appearance remains outside their control.

How much does the tour cost?
While the exact price isn’t specified here, it’s considered a good value given the number of activities, guided expertise, and transportation included. It’s worth comparing to similar tours to ensure it aligns with your budget and expectations.

In summary, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to experience Fairbanks’ winter highlights — combining cultural stops, natural hot springs, and the elusive Northern Lights in one memorable package. Whether you get the perfect Aurora show or not, you’ll leave with stories, photos, and a deeper appreciation of Alaska’s winter magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby