Fairbanks: Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour – A Detailed Look for Curious Travelers
Planning a trip to Alaska and eager to catch the elusive Northern Lights? If so, this Fairbanks tour offering a combination of hot springs, an ice museum, and a good chance to see the aurora might be just what you’re after. We’ve been digging into the details, reading reviews, and weighing the pros and cons to help you decide if this experience is a good fit.
One thing we love about this tour is how it balances different activities—an ice museum visit, relaxing in warm mineral waters, and the hunt for the aurora. Plus, it’s designed to keep things moving smoothly, with a knowledgeable guide making sure you get the most out of every moment. On the flip side, it’s quite a long outing—around 10 hours—so it’s not ideal if you’re after a quick glimpse or are tight on time.
This tour works well for travelers looking for a full, immersive experience of Alaska’s winter wonders. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy a mix of cultural sights and nature, and don’t mind a late night returning to your hotel. However, keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon—you can’t guarantee seeing them, even with a good guide.
Key Points
- Comprehensive experience: Combines ice museum, hot springs, and aurora viewing in one day.
- Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and effort to find the best viewing spots.
- Long day but worth it: Expect around 10 hours from pickup to return, with a late-night finish.
- Value for money: For $215, you get admission to the ice museum and hot springs, plus a guided tour—be mindful food and drinks aren’t included.
- Weather and aurora dependability: Viewing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed, since it’s weather and nature-based.
- Group size: Small groups (limited to 14) enhance the experience and allow for personal attention.
An Honest Breakdown of the Experience
Starting the Journey: From Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs
Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is smooth and convenient. The drive out to Chena Hot Springs covers about 60 miles (roughly 97 km), a scenic ride where you might even spot local wildlife—moose, beavers, or foxes—adding a dash of excitement to the trip. The bus or van ride is comfortable, and with a smaller group (up to 14), you’re not just another face in a crowd, making for a more personable experience.
Exploring the Aurora Ice Museum
Once you arrive, the highlight for many is the guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum. This place is a genuine marvel—constructed with over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, it’s like stepping into a winter wonderland that never melts. We love how guides give insights into the artistry behind the sculptures, often created by world-renowned ice carvers.
One traveler raved, “walking through the ice sculptures felt like entering another world,” which captures how surreal and beautiful it is. You can sit at the ice bar on a caribou-hide covered stool or—if you’re feeling adventurous—indulge in an appletini served in a hand-carved ice glass (note that drinks aren’t included). Plus, the ice museum is a great space for photos, with incredible detail in every sculpture.
Relaxing at Chena Hot Springs
After the chilly wonderland, it’s time to unwind. The hot springs are a major draw—warm mineral waters at a cozy 106°F (41°C), all year round. We think the best part is soaking under the stars in the outdoor hot tub or relaxing inside in the heated pool, especially after a cold day. The mineral waters are touted for their healing qualities, and many reviews mention how soothing and revitalizing they are.
It’s worth noting that children under 18 aren’t permitted outdoors, but they can still enjoy the indoor pool—so if you’re traveling with family, it’s good to plan accordingly. Towel rentals are $5, and lockers are available for $0.50—small costs for convenience.
More Great Tours NearbyNighttime Aurora Watching
The main event is arguably waiting for the Northern Lights. Guides will take you to vantage points with the best chances of visibility. Many reviewers mention how guides like Gina, Greg, or Evan go above and beyond, trying to find the clearest, darkest spots where the aurora can dance across the sky. “We saw the northern lights,” one traveler shares, “despite already viewing them from the hot springs, the guide drove us further north for less light pollution and a spectacular display.”
If the aurora is active, you can view from outside the hot springs or inside the Aurora Café with a warm drink in hand. Be aware that the lights are unpredictable; some nights are cloudy or inactive, meaning no show. One reviewer noted, “we didn’t see the lights, but the guide made it fun anyway,” which emphasizes the importance of enjoying the entire experience, not just the aurora.
Returning to Fairbanks
After midnight, you’ll hop back on the vehicle for the return trip. Expect to arrive at your hotel between 2 and 3 am, depending on where you’re staying. The late hour isn’t for everyone, but many consider it part of the adventure—the chance to chase that incredible sky display.
Pricing and Value
At $215 per person, this tour is priced in line with similar experiences—admission to the ice museum and hot springs is included, which adds value. Food and drinks, however, are not included, so if you’re planning to eat or sip during the evening, budget accordingly. Towels are available for a small fee, and lockers are cheap to use, making the overall experience quite manageable.
Many reviewers find this price fair for what’s included—a full day of sightseeing, relaxation, and potential aurora sightings. The guides’ knowledge, enthusiasm, and effort to find the best viewing spots really stand out, which can make the experience more memorable.
What the Reviews Say
The most glowing reviews praise the guides—Gina, Christopher, Evan, and others—for their friendliness, expertise, and dedication. One review states, “Gina made our trip unforgettable,” highlighting how much a good guide can elevate the experience. Many travelers appreciated the ice museum’s beauty, calling it “magical,” and enjoyed the hot springs as a relaxing, rejuvenating highlight.
A recurring point is that even if the Northern Lights don’t make an appearance, many still find the tour worthwhile. “The hot springs were amazing,” says one, “and even though we didn’t see the aurora, the guide tried multiple vantage points, so we felt like we gave it a real shot.”
However, some found the dinner at the resort to be mediocre and slow, which cuts into the time for hot springs and viewing. If you’re expecting a gourmet meal, this might be a downside, but most seem to see it as a minor issue compared to the overall experience.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a full evening of activities, combining sights and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those interested in Alaska’s cultural and natural highlights, with a good chance to see the Northern Lights, weather permitting. If you’re comfortable with late nights, this tour provides a wonderful way to maximize your time in Fairbanks.
If you’re traveling with children over 18, they can enjoy all aspects, but younger kids might be limited to indoor pools. Those with a keen interest in ice sculptures, hot springs, and the aurora will find plenty to love here.
Fairbanks: Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour
FAQ
Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, the aurora’s appearance depends on weather and solar activity, so it’s not guaranteed even with a knowledgeable guide. But guides will do their best to find the best viewing spots.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, swimwear, towel, water, and cash for extras like towels or lockers. Warm clothing is essential for outdoor aurora viewing.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, with pickups arranged from your hotel and a late return around 2-3 am.
Can children join the outdoor hot springs?
No, children under 18 aren’t permitted outdoors at the hot springs, but they can use the indoor pool.
What activities are included?
The tour includes a visit to the ice museum, admission to the hot springs, guided aurora viewing, and transportation. Food and drinks are optional and not included.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it easy to meet others, and the guides are friendly and accommodating.
What if I don’t want to do the hot springs?
The hot springs are a central part of the experience, but if you prefer not to soak, you can still enjoy the museum and aurora viewing.
How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $215 per person, which covers admissions and guided transportation. Food, drinks, towels, and lockers are additional.
Are there other similar tours?
Yes, there are other options for aurora and hot springs tours, which you can find linked in the provider’s listing, but this one is noted for its excellent guides and well-rounded itinerary.
In essence, this Fairbanks tour offers a balanced, memorable way to experience Alaska’s winter magic—if the weather cooperates. The mix of ice artistry, relaxing mineral waters, and potential Northern Lights makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a full night of adventure, relaxation, and awe. It’s particularly valuable for travelers who want guides to enhance their experience and are comfortable with a late night out.
So, if chasing the aurora and soaking in hot springs sounds like your kind of bucket list moment, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.
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