The Top 16 Fairbanks Spa & Hot Springs Experiences

The 16 Best Spa & Hot Springs Experiences in Fairbanks

Fairbanks isn’t just about chasing the Aurora Borealis; it’s also a prime spot for soothing hot springs and rejuvenating spa experiences. The area’s wild landscapes, coupled with geothermal wonders, make it a perfect destination to unwind, whether you’re soaking in mineral waters or marveling at icy sculptures. Among the many options, we especially like the Chena Hot Springs Tour for its full-day adventure and the chance to see the Aurora Ice Museum. The combination of natural relaxation and quirky art makes it a top pick for travelers wanting a genuine Alaskan soak.

Fairbanks offers everything from luxury day tours to private Northern Lights hot springs outings. Whether you’re after a quick soak, a scenic tour, or the thrill of chasing auroras, the following experiences showcase the best of what Alaska’s cold yet warm environment has to offer. We’ve ranked these based on reviews, uniqueness, and value, helping you find your ideal spa or hot springs escape.

1. Chena Hot Springs Tour

Discover Alaska’s famous Chena Hot Springs on a full-day trip from Fairbanks. This tour invites you to soak in mineral waters with a constant temperature of 106°F (41°C), perfect after a chilly day of exploring or just craving relaxation. The trip includes a 60-mile scenic drive through forested mountains, an optional geothermal energy tour, and a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum, where ice sculptures and art installations are carved from blocks of ice. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see local wildlife. Guests love the blend of outdoor soaking and quirky art.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of geothermal innovation and outdoor scenery. The hot springs are accessible year-round, and the museum offers a surprising art scene. Perfect for travelers seeking a classic hot springs experience with a twist of local ingenuity. The bottom line: a balanced mix of relaxation, learning, and local flavor in one memorable day.

2. Spectacular Hot Spring Experience with Northern Lights

This private, all-inclusive day at Chena Hot Springs combines hot springs relaxation with the chance to see the Northern Lights. Unlike larger group tours, this one keeps things intimate, with a personal guide who helps you photograph the aurora if it appears. Besides soaking in the thermal waters, you’ll explore the Ice Museum’s stunning sculptures and enjoy insider tips on aurora viewing spots. Guests especially appreciate the private, personalized service and the flexibility to enjoy the landscape at your pace.

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a luxurious, quiet day with insider access. The highlight: the chance to enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty and the Northern Lights without the crowds. It’s a pricier option, but the personalized nature and exclusive access make it worthwhile.

3. Chena Hot Springs Day Tour from Fairbanks

If a shorter but still immersive experience appeals, the Chena Hot Springs Day Tour offers a lively day of ice sculptures and hot springs in about 6.5 hours. Round-trip transportation from select hotels makes logistics simple, and the guided tour of the Ice Museum features impressive ice sculptures. Afterward, you can relax in the thermal pools, which soothe muscles and provide stunning views of the wilderness. Reviewers mention the “excellent tour” with a “relaxing day,” and fans love the surprise of seeing wildlife like moose during the drive.

This tour is highly suitable for those who want a shorter, active day with a mix of sightseeing and soaking. It’s a good value, especially considering the hotel pickup, and perfect for travelers with limited time but big expectations.

4. Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Night Tour from Fairbanks

For night owls, this Northern Lights and Hot Springs combo offers an evening of soothing thermal waters under the starry sky. As it’s a private experience, you won’t share the space with strangers, making it ideal for couples or small groups. The tour includes a guided visit to the Ice Museum, time in the hot springs, and a dedicated Northern Lights viewing session if nature cooperates. Guests rave about the attentive guides and the chance to see the aurora while soaking.

This trip is perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate winter night in Alaska, with the added thrill of aurora hunting. The inclusion of the Ice Museum adds a quirky touch, and the flexibility makes it a top choice for aurora chasers.

5. Midnight Sun Magic Chena Hot Springs Soak and Ice Museum Tour

This small, family-run tour offers a personalized experience of Chena Hot Springs. The guide Kevin makes this trip memorable, sharing stories and even going into the hot springs with you. It includes a visit to the Ice Museum, where glowing sculptures and frosty cocktails await. Guests comment on the “outstanding” guide and the “relaxing hot springs,” making it ideal for travelers seeking a warm, cozy night immersed in Alaska’s unique environment.

The bottom line: this tour is perfect if you want a friendly, intimate experience with local insight, especially during the cool summer or winter nights when the midnight sun or aurora adds magic to your soak.

6. Spectacular Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Experience

This guided tour is all about personal service and photography. The Spectacular Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Experience features a professional guide who will accompany you through the night, helping you capture the aurora with a professional portrait session. With small groups and flexible evenings, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a personal touch and expert tips. Guests enjoy the knowledgeable guide Kevin and the chance to get stunning photos of the Northern Lights while relaxing in the hot springs.

This tour is tailored for those who want to combine photography, relaxation, and Aurora viewing with a knowledgeable guide. It’s slightly more expensive but offers the best chance for incredible photos and an authentic experience.

7. Hot Springs Aurora Viewing Dream in Alaska

This Hot Springs Aurora Viewing Dream tour is designed for nighttime Aurora enthusiasts. Set 60 miles from Fairbanks, it takes you directly to Chena Hot Springs, where you soak and watch for the lights. The trip includes a visit to the Ice Museum and the option to dine at the on-site restaurant. The highlight is hassle-free transportation and the chance to combine hot springs relaxation with Aurora hunting in one evening.

Best suited for travelers wanting convenience and a night of aurora and hot springs. The reviews mention the “wonderful springs,” although some note the ice museum may be outdated. Still, the experience of viewing the Northern Lights from the hot springs is truly special.

8. Chena Hot Spring Day Tour

Ideal for those who want a quick, guided immersion in Alaska’s hot springs and ice sculptures, this Chena Hot Springs Day Tour lasts about 6.5 hours. It includes round-trip hotel transport, a guided visit to the Ice Museum, and time to relax in the thermal pools. Reviewers praise the “excellent tour,” noting the hot springs and museum were both fantastic. The tour also offers wildlife sightings like moose along the way, adding to the authentic experience.

It’s best suited for travelers wanting a shorter day with a mix of sightseeing and soaking. The value is high with transport included, making it ideal for a quick escape from Fairbanks.

9. Fire & Ice: Chena Hot Springs, Ice Museum + Aurora Adventure

This experience combines a relaxing soak, Ice Museum exploration, and a Northern Lights hunt. The Fire & Ice tour provides a full evening of activity, with optional dinner and the chance to sip a frost-cooled cocktail from the ice bar. The highlight is the guide’s effort to find the Aurora Borealis if weather permits. Reviewers mention the “glowing ice sculptures” and the “frosty cocktails,” making it a fun, atmospheric night.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a combination of relaxation, fun, and aurora chasing with a vibrant atmosphere.

10. From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Day Tour

This recommended option offers a scenic day trip with guided visits to the Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs, including time to relax in thermal waters. The small group transportation emphasizes personalized service, and reviews highlight the “friendly driver,” “beautiful grounds,” and “fascinating ice house.” The tour runs about 8 hours, perfect for travelers who want a balanced day of sightseeing and soaking.

Ideal for those who want a comfortable, guided experience without the hassle of planning. It’s a smart choice for travelers looking for quality without extra frills.

11. Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Aurora Borealis From Fairbanks

For a nighttime adventure, this tour offers a blend of hot springs, Ice Museum, and Aurora Borealis viewing. The trip includes hotel pick-up, and reviews mention “outstanding experience” with Nate as a guide. The focus here is on maximizing Aurora viewing chances with a relaxed soak and a scenic drive, making it perfect for Aurora enthusiasts who want a guided, comfortable night.

It’s best for travelers seeking a trusted, relaxed night with multiple chances to see the lights and enjoy the springs.

12. Full Day Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs Tour

This full-day tour combines ice sculpture art and hot springs relaxation. Starting with the Ice Museum, you’ll see impressive sculptures before heading to soak in the thermal waters. The tour includes dining options at the resort, although guests say the experience is more about combining two iconic attractions rather than luxury. It’s suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day that includes both art and relaxation.

The value lies in visiting two major sights in one day, perfect if you’re brief on time but want a full experience.

13. From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour

This evening tour features hot springs, Ice Museum, and Aurora Borealis viewing, with hotel transfers included. It’s designed for Aurora lovers who want worry-free transportation and a chance to see the lights while relaxing in mineral waters. Reviews note the “fantastic experience,” especially for Aurora viewing and the “beautiful ice sculptures.” It’s best suited for night travelers who want a mix of relaxation and Aurora hunting without driving.

14. Chena Hot Springs Aurora Tour

This tour emphasizes personalized guidance and aurora photography. Your guide helps you capture the perfect shot while you enjoy the hot springs. The small group size and expert advice make it ideal for photography buffs and Aurora seekers. Guests mention the “breathtaking pictures” and “great guide” as key highlights.

Perfect for travelers who want a more intimate, photo-focused experience.

15. Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour

This full-day experience combines hot springs, Ice Museum, and an Aurora Chase. The trip starts at the hot springs, then takes you on a chase to find the best Aurora viewing spots. It’s a longer, more flexible day, ideal for Aurora enthusiasts who want a mix of soaking and chasing. Reviewers love the “timely pickup” and the chance to see wildlife along the way.

16. Chena Hot Springs Round Trip Tour

This private transfer offers the easiest way to reach Chena Hot Springs. Perfect for travelers who prefer a tailored experience, it includes a hot springs pass and the chance to see wildlife en route. It’s suitable for those wanting maximum flexibility and privacy, especially if you want to combine a relaxing soak with a scenic drive.

How to Choose the Best Spa & Hot Springs Experience in Fairbanks

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. If you want a full-day adventure with a chance to see the Aurora, tours like Chena Hot Springs Tour or Fire & Ice are excellent options. For those seeking personalized guide service or special photography, tours like Spectacular Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Experience are unbeatable.

If your schedule is tight, a half-day trip such as the Chena Hot Springs Day Tour offers great value. For nighttime aurora viewing, the guided Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Aurora Borealis is a top pick, especially if you want a hassle-free experience.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak Aurora season, to secure your preferred dates and tours. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking or outdoor activity—so choose accordingly.

Fairbanks offers a fantastic range of spa and hot springs experiences, whether you’re after a relaxing soak, a photo opportunity, or a Northern Lights adventure. From private, intimate tours to lively group experiences, there’s something for every traveler eager to enjoy Alaska’s unique thermal and icy wonders. Take your pick, plan ahead, and get ready for an unforgettable Arctic escape.