Spectacular Hot Spring Experience with Northern Lights

A Hot Spring and Northern Lights Adventure: Fairbanks’s Best Kept Secret

Imagine soaking in natural hot springs while watching the Northern Lights dance overhead. That’s exactly what this private tour offers—visiting the Chena Hot Springs Resort just outside Fairbanks, Alaska, with a full-day itinerary that combines relaxation, stunning scenery, and the chance to see one of nature’s most elusive spectacles. For $235 per person, you get about nine hours of personalized service, including hotel pickup and drop-off, which means no stressing over driving in icy conditions.

What we love about this experience is how it balances soothing hot springs with unique cultural stops like the Ice Museum, all wrapped in the chance to glimpse the Aurora borealis. Plus, the intimate setting and knowledgeable guides, especially Tony, make the trip feel more like visiting a friend than being part of a big tour group. The only thing to consider? The weather can be unpredictable, and Aurora viewing depends heavily on clear skies—so patience and a little luck are part of the package.

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave a blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor wanting a taste of authentic Alaskan experiences or someone eager to chase the Northern Lights without the hassle of driving, this private tour offers a comfortable, well-curated day.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures you’re not sharing the adventure with strangers.
• Multiple attractions including hot springs, ice sculptures, and Aurora viewing.
• Knowledgeable guides like Tony enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexible, all-in-one package for relaxation, photography, and cultural exploration.
• Good value for the quality of personalized service and diverse activities.
• Weather-dependent Aurora sightings may require patience but add to the thrill.

The Ultimate Fairbanks Winter Escape

When most travelers think of Alaska, images of snow, ice, and majestic landscapes come to mind. But what truly elevates a trip here is experiencing the thermal waters of Chena Hot Springs and the chance to see the Northern Lights—a combo that makes for an unforgettable day.

This tour is set up as a private experience, meaning your group gets undivided attention from guides like Tony, who many reviews praise for his friendly demeanor and wealth of local knowledge. The cost of $235 covers a lot: hotel pick-up, transportation, admission tickets to the Ice Museum and hot springs, and the warmth of knowing your trip is tailored just for you.

The Journey to Chena Hot Springs

The day begins with a scenic one-hour drive from Fairbanks, giving you a peek at the snowy wilderness that makes Alaska so special. Guides often share stories about local history or tips for photographing the Northern Lights, which is a nice touch that adds value beyond just the stops.

Once at the resort, the experience kicks off with a relaxing soak in the hot springs. The water, naturally heated, is famed for its therapeutic properties, and many reviews highlight how soothing it is after a day out in the cold. Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor tubs, the setting offers peaceful views, especially if the skies clear and the Aurora appears.

Exploring the Ice Museum

A key highlight is the Ice Museum, included in your ticket. Curated by master ice sculptors, it’s a gallery full of intricately carved sculptures that dazzle visitors. You might find yourself captivated by the artistry, perfect for photos or just marveling at the craftsmanship.

Reviews mention the Ice Museum’s stunning sculptures, though some note it can feel crowded towards the end of the day. Still, it’s a must-see, especially since it’s included in the tour. Don’t forget to visit the Ice Bar—a fun spot to enjoy a drink in a glass made of ice, adding a playful touch to your visit.

Soaking in the Hot Springs

After the museum, it’s time to dive into the hot springs themselves. The resort offers indoor and outdoor tubs and even a swimming pool, all filled with naturally heated mineral water. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with reviews emphasizing how relaxing and calming the experience is. Be sure to bring a towel, swimsuit, and shower shoes—though rental options are available if you forget.

Pro tip: Bring quarters for the lockers—some reviews mention that paying a small fee makes changing easier. Many visitors appreciate the combination of indoor warmth and outdoor scenery, especially if the weather is clear enough to see the Northern Lights while soaking.

Aurora Hunting and Photography

The highlight for many is seeing the Northern Lights. Guides like Tony often take you to vantage points for the best photo opportunities or to areas with clear views of the night sky. While Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, most reviews mention at least a glimpse of the lights on their trip, whether directly from the hot springs or during the drive back.

A few travelers have shared that even when the Aurora doesn’t appear at the resort, their guides go the extra mile in chasing the lights by stopping along the route, making the experience feel spontaneous and personalized. This flexibility and dedication are what we love about this tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Chena Hot Springs Resort

The day starts with a pickup from your hotel, usually at 5:00 pm, and a scenic drive to the resort. The guides are friendly and attentive, often sharing local stories or tips for photography. The drive itself is a chance to get familiar with the Alaskan winter landscape, with many reviewers commenting on how beautiful and serene the surroundings are.

Once at the resort, your ticket grants access to the hot springs, the Ice Museum, and a chance to explore the grounds. Many travelers mention the excellent food options at the on-site restaurant, although meals are not included in the tour price. You might want to bring some cash or a card for snacks or a warm drink.

Ice Museum Exploration

The Ice Museum lasts about 45 minutes and features exquisite sculptures crafted from ice blocks. The sculptures are a testament to the skill of the artists and worth capturing in photos. The museum also has an Ice Bar—a fun spot for a unique drink experience.

Hot Springs Relaxation

After soaking in the sculptures, it’s time to enjoy the hot springs. Many reviewers highlight how peaceful and rejuvenating the experience is. You can choose between indoor and outdoor pools, both offering warm mineral water to soothe tired muscles. Remember to bring your essentials—rental options exist for towels and shower shoes.

Night Sky & Aurora Viewing

As night falls, guides like Tony often take you to the best spots for viewing the Northern Lights. If the aurora appears, you’ll be whisked away to a vantage point for photography and awe. Even if clouds block the sky, guides will often turn this into a chasing adventure, stopping at multiple locations and sharing tips on how to photograph the Aurora.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviewers give this tour a perfect 5-star rating, praising the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. Many mention Tony by name as going “above and beyond,” especially in helping capture photos or finding the best Aurora viewing spots.

Some share that the Ice Museum can get crowded, but this seems to be a minor issue compared to the overall experience. The hot springs consistently come up as the highlight, with visitors describing them as calming, warm, and incredibly scenic.

A few notes mention that Aurora sightings depend on the weather—cloud cover can obscure the sky, so don’t be disappointed if you don’t see the lights on your first try. Guides are praised for their flexibility, often making extra stops to maximize chances for a show.

Pricing and Value

At $235, this tour offers excellent value considering it includes hotel transportation, museum tickets, hot springs access, and personalized guiding. It’s more intimate than larger group tours, which often means more attention, better photos, and a more relaxed pace.

Given the added bonus of capturing memorable photos and the relaxing experience of soaking in hot springs, many travelers find this trip well worth the cost—especially when you consider how much it packs into a single evening.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for those who want a personalized, stress-free adventure combining nature, relaxation, and cultural exploration. It’s perfect if you’re seeking an authentic Alaskan experience with knowledgeable guides like Tony, who can enhance your trip with local insights and photo tips. If you’re eager to chase the Northern Lights but prefer not to drive or navigate icy roads, this is a smart choice.

Travelers looking for a relaxing soak amid stunning scenery, or those eager to see the Ice Museum, will find plenty to love here. Keep in mind that Aurora sightings are weather-dependent, so a bit of patience may be needed. Still, with the flexibility and dedication of guides, many visitors find this tour delivers breathtaking moments and genuine comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and eliminating the need for self-driving.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately nine hours, starting around 5:00 pm and ending with your return to the hotel.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers admission to the hot springs, Ice Museum, bottled water, and locker access (50 cents). Meals and snacks are not included but are available at the resort.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While not guaranteed, most reviews report seeing Aurora at some point during the evening, either from the hot springs or during the drive back.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is most suitable for most travelers but note that the resort is not wheelchair accessible. Bring appropriate clothing and accessories for winter conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, shower shoes, and quarters for lockers. Although rentals are available, these essentials enhance your comfort.

What happens if the weather is bad or the Aurora doesn’t appear?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions prevent Aurora viewing, guides often adjust the route and stops, or you may be offered a different date or full refund.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, providing a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Can I extend my hot springs visit?
While the tour includes about two hours at the hot springs, you can enjoy as much time as the resort allows within your schedule.

This tour offers a seamless blend of relaxation, cultural sights, and Aurora hunting—a true Alaskan experience without the hassle. Whether you’re after a peaceful soak, spectacular ice sculptures, or a glimpse of the Northern Lights, it’s a trip that leaves many travelers with stories to tell and memories to cherish.