Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Night Tour from Fairbanks

If you’re dreaming of catching the northern lights while relaxing in a natural hot spring, this tour from Fairbanks might catch your eye. It promises a mix of alpine scenery, cultural highlights, and the elusive aurora borealis—all packed into a single night. Having looked into the experience, we can tell you it’s a solid choice for those who want a balanced, well-organized trip with knowledgeable guides and memorable sights.

What draws us in? First, the chance to see the northern lights in one of the best locations around. Second, the opportunity to unwind in Chena Hot Springs’ mineral waters after a chilly evening of aurora hunting. But, like any experience, it’s worth considering some potential pitfalls—mainly weather dependency and the overall organization of the activities. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Great for aurora enthusiasts wanting a chance to spot the northern lights in a prime location.
• Includes a visit to the Fairbanks Ice Museum, adding a cultural and artistic touch.
• Hot springs experience is relaxing, especially after a cold night outdoors.
• Guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Weather can be unpredictable, and sightings aren’t guaranteed.
• Tour duration is approximately 10.5 hours, making it a full but worthwhile night out.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Let’s start with the basics. This tour is priced at $245 per person—not exactly budget-friendly, but considering it combines multiple experiences, it can offer good value for those who want a complete night adventure. The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off (at selected hotels), transportation, admission to the Ice Museum, and a guided experience.

What’s not included? Alcoholic beverages (you can buy drinks on-site), and dinner isn’t part of the package either. So, plan to eat before or bring snacks if you’re hungry during the night. The tour also doesn’t guarantee you’ll see the aurora, as it’s dependent on weather and solar activity, but guides often do their best to find clear skies and catch the lights when they’re active.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Departure from Fairbanks at 5:00 pm

You’ll be picked up from your hotel (if booked at a participating location) and driven about 60 miles north to Chena Hot Springs Resort. The ride itself, lasting roughly 2 hours, is a scenic start. Many reviews mention how enjoyable the drive is, with some guides providing interesting commentary on the area.

Tour of the Fairbanks Ice Museum

Around 6:45 pm, you’ll visit the Ice Museum. This spot is often a highlight—showcasing hand-sculpted ice art, chandeliers, and a uniquely cool atmosphere. Reviewers like Mary describe it as fun, with some saying it added a nice cultural touch to the evening. Keep in mind that, in winter, this museum tends to be open, but it’s always good to verify if it’s operational that day.

Relaxing in the Hot Springs

From 8:00 pm, the focus shifts to unwinding in the hot springs. The resort offers both outdoor mineral pools and an indoor pool, which is ideal if the weather’s not cooperating. The outdoor pools are especially popular, with guests commenting on how soothing the warm water feels against the cold Alaska night. If you’re 18 or older, you can enjoy soaking in Rock Lake, which offers a stunning starry sky view.

Some reviews mention the pools’ size or cleanliness, with Lena_M noting that while the driver was lovely, “the pool area was disappointing,” and others find it a perfect way to relax after the evening’s activities. Remember, taking off your shoes in the lobby is required before entering the pools, so bringing flip-flops or water shoes makes sense.

Waiting for the Northern Lights

Around midnight, the real highlight begins. Guides are constantly monitoring the aurora forecast and will drive to spots with the best chance of clear skies. Several reviewers, including Lisa_P and Jayne_S, praise guides like Zack and Ed for their attentiveness, helpfulness, and enthusiasm. They stop multiple times, increasing your chances of catching the dancing lights, which can be mesmerizing.

However, weather is unpredictable. Some guests, like Todd_H and David_R, mention that cloudy skies prevented them from seeing the aurora, which is a common issue in aurora tours. Still, you’ll be in the capable hands of seasoned guides who do their best with the conditions.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up around 4 am, with drop-offs back at your hotel by approximately 6 am. It’s a long night, but many say it’s worth it, especially if you’re eager to experience Alaska’s natural wonders in one go.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews paint a mostly positive picture. Many travelers rave about the guides—such as Paul, Colleen, Ed, and Zack—highlighting their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to go the extra mile. Rujuta_K calls it a “breathtaking” experience, emphasizing her view of the northern lights, even under cloudy skies, thanks to the guide’s efforts.

Food and facilities get mixed reviews. The ice museum is generally enjoyed, with some noting it’s fun to see the sculptures and ice art. The hot springs are also a favorite for their warmth and the starry sky view. Yet, Lena_M points out that “the pool area was smaller than expected,” and others mention long waits for food in the restaurant, so don’t expect gourmet dining at the resort.

A few reviews mention organizational hiccups—guides disappearing or the resort feeling somewhat lackluster. Jess_C found the overall planning lacking, feeling left to figure things out at times. If smooth logistics are crucial for you, keep this in mind.

The Price and Value

At $245, this tour isn’t cheap, but it covers a lot of ground: transportation, entry to the ice museum, and the hot springs experience. Many reviews reflect satisfaction with the value, especially considering the exclusive nature of aurora viewing in Alaska. The included hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, which can be tricky in winter conditions.

However, remember that the aurora is a natural phenomenon, and sightings aren’t guaranteed. If you’re mainly after the lights, some travelers suggest going independently for potentially lower cost, but you’d miss out on the guided insights and the convenience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions, relaxation, and natural beauty. It’s suitable for those comfortable with long nights outdoors and the cold, as well as people who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a structured itinerary.

Travelers with kids over 5 might find it manageable, but note that the hot springs are only for 18+. If you’re traveling as a family or with friends looking for a fun night with some guaranteed comfort, this could be a memorable pick.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Night Tour offers a well-rounded evening of cultural stops, relaxation, and aurora chasing—if Mother Nature cooperates. The guides are often praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience more enjoyable even if the skies stay cloudy. The chance to soak in mineral waters under a starry sky, combined with a visit to the ice museum, makes for a memorable adventure.

It’s best suited for travelers who are okay with the uncertainties of Aurora viewing, value added experiences, and want the convenience of a guided trip. If you’re looking for an authentic, hassle-free way to enjoy Alaska’s winter wonders, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included at selected hotels, making it convenient to start and end your night comfortably.

Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
While guides do their best to find clear skies and active auroras, seeing the lights depends on weather and solar activity. Sightings are not guaranteed, but guides monitor forecasts to increase your chances.

What should I wear?
Dress very warmly—layers, insulated outerwear, hats, gloves, and warm footwear are essential. It gets very cold outdoors at night, especially while waiting for the aurora.

Is the ice museum open in winter?
Yes, the Ice Museum is typically open during the winter months, and many reviews mention it as a fun, artistic stop. However, it’s always good to verify beforehand.

Are the hot springs suitable for children?
The outdoor pools are only for guests 18 and older, so families with young children might want to plan accordingly or consider alternative activities.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather is overcast or snowy, aurora sightings are less likely. Guides may still take you for scenic drives and hot springs visits, but seeing the lights will depend on clear skies.

Whether you’re after a chance to see the aurora, relax in hot springs, or just experience a slice of Arctic life, this tour offers a solid, well-organized way to do it. Just keep your expectations in check regarding weather, and you’ll have an unforgettable night in Alaska.