Aurora Viewing and Dinner

Experience the Northern Lights with a Touch of Fine Dining in Fairbanks

If you’re eyeing a chance to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska, the Aurora Viewing and Dinner tour offered by Basecamp Adventures might be on your radar. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but we’ve looked closely at what it promises—and who it might suit. It’s a self-drive activity, so you’ll need to handle your own transportation, which is worth considering if you prefer guided transport. What we like? First, the combination of a delicious 3-course meal at Latitude 65 and the opportunity to relax before the lights appear. Second, the informative presentation about Aurora science and folklore adds a thoughtful touch to the evening.

That said, it’s important to keep in mind that this activity hinges on clear weather; if the skies stay cloudy, your chances of seeing the Aurora diminish, and the experience could be less magical. It’s definitely best suited for travelers comfortable with self-driving and those who enjoy a blend of good food, educational content, and natural wonder. Families with older kids might find it appealing, but younger children should be prepared for a late night and the drive.

Key Points

• Self-drive setup means you’ll need your own transportation to the meeting point.
• Dinner starts at 8:00pm in a fine dining setting, with a focus on quality food and optional alcohol.
• Relax in the lounge or attend a free 20-minute presentation about the Aurora’s science and folklore.
• Additional photography sessions are available for a fee if you want professional shots.
• The tour runs approximately 6 hours, ending around 2:00am, so be prepared for a late night.
• Weather dependency is key—cloud cover can cancel or limit your chances of seeing the Aurora.

A Closer Look at the Aurora Viewing and Dinner Experience

This tour in Fairbanks offers a blend of culinary delight, educational content, and nature’s ultimate light show. It’s designed for those who prefer a more relaxed, less guided approach—since it’s self-drive, you’re in the driver’s seat, quite literally. You’ll arrive at the meeting point, a location on Himalaya Road, and start your evening with a 2-hour dinner reservation at Latitude 65. The restaurant promises a 3-course meal, with options for vegan or vegetarian diets, though with a note that extra charges may apply depending on ingredient availability.

The meal includes a starter (soup or salad), a choice of steak or chicken for the main course, and a dessert. While alcohol isn’t included, drinks are available for purchase, but only to those 21 and older. We appreciate that the menu appears to be well-thought-out, offering a chance to enjoy a nice meal before heading outside to wait for the sky to light up.

The Lounge and Aurora Presentation

After dinner, you can settle into a comfortable lounge space where free Wi-Fi is available. This is a good spot to relax, chat with other travelers, or just unwind while waiting for the stars to twinkle. At around 10:00pm, a free 20-minute presentation kicks off, explaining the science behind the Aurora and sharing some of the folklore. We think this is a great addition because it turns a simple sky-watching night into something educational—adding context and stories to what you’re about to see.

Aurora Watching and Photography

Once the Aurora appears, staff will guide you on where to look, enhancing your chances of capturing the moment. For those wanting to elevate their photos, an additional photography session costs $60 per person. Given the Aurora can be elusive, this option might be worthwhile if you’re keen on getting good shots.

Final Hours and Logistics

The yurt and viewing area close at 2:00am, so plan to stay until then if you can. Since this is a self-drive activity, you’ll be responsible for your return trip, which is an important factor if you’re not comfortable driving late at night or in snowy conditions.

What Travelers Might Expect and What’s Important to Know

Group size is capped at 14 people, so it’s not a giant tour—more personal than big bus trips. The price of $120 per person seems fair considering the included dinner, presentation, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. However, some might find the cost for photography a bit steep, especially if they’re just looking for a quick snap.

The weather dependency is a big factor; if clouds roll in, your Aurora experience could be compromised. The provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if the weather cancels the tour. It’s worth noting that most travelers can participate, making it accessible for many, but those with mobility issues should check the venue’s facilities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy combining good food with natural scenery. If you’re comfortable with self-driving in winter conditions, you’ll appreciate the flexibility and independence it offers. It’s also a smart pick for travelers who want to learn more about the Northern Lights through the included presentation. Families with teenagers or older children might enjoy the late-night adventure, but younger kids may find the late hours a challenge.

If you’re someone who prefers guided transportation or is worried about the weather, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re okay with a little planning and want a relaxed, intimate evening with the possibility of seeing the Aurora, this tour fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

This Aurora Viewing and Dinner tour provides a balanced mix of good food, educational content, and the thrill of watching the sky light up. The self-drive element offers independence, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your comfort level with winter driving. The dinner at Latitude 65 adds a layer of sophistication to the evening, making it more than just a sky-gazing experience.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the chance to enjoy a three-course meal and relax before the lights appear makes this a comfortable way to spend an evening in Fairbanks. Plus, the informative presentation adds a meaningful touch that helps you connect with the science and stories behind the Aurora Borealis.

In the end, this tour is well-suited for independent travelers who value good food and education, and are prepared for the late night. It’s a practical choice if you’re after a more personalized experience, willing to take the risks of weather dependency, and eager to combine a culinary treat with nature’s most spectacular light show.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
Not exactly. It’s a self-drive activity, so you handle your own transportation to the meeting point. Staff guide you on where to look for the Aurora after it appears.

What time does dinner start?
Dinner reservations begin at 8:00pm, giving you time to settle in and enjoy your meal before the Aurora shows up.

Can I buy alcohol during the tour?
Yes, alcohol is available for purchase at the restaurant, but only for guests 21 and older. It’s not included in the tour price.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 6 hours, ending around 2:00am, so be ready for a late night. The main activities happen after dinner and the Aurora presentation.

Are children allowed?
Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. The late hours and self-drive nature suggest it’s better suited for older kids and adults.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to clouds or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much is the additional photography session?
$60 per person. It could be worth it if you’re eager to get high-quality photos of the Aurora.

What’s included in the tour?
A 3-course dinner, access to the lounge, a free presentation about the Aurora, and guidance on viewing the lights.

What’s not included?
Alcoholic beverages and any additional extras or appetizers beyond the standard menu.

This tour offers a comfortable, flexible way to experience the Northern Lights while enjoying good food and educational insights. It’s a solid pick if you’re comfortable with the logistics and weather risks, and if a relaxed evening with a focus on quality over quantity appeals to you.