Ice Museum Tour at Chena Hot Springs, Fairbanks, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required, accessible to most visitors
Overview
Discover the world’s largest year-round ice environment at the Aurora Ice Museum in Fairbanks. This 45-minute tour features stunning sculptures, ice artistry, and a frosty drink experience. A must-visit for winter enthusiasts heading to Alaska!
Aurora Ice Museum Tour
45 Minutes • Ages 6+ • Guided Tour of World's Largest Ice Environment!
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About This Adventure
Discover the breathtaking Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs Resort, the world's largest year-round ice environment. Marvel at stunning ice sculptures, learn fascinating facts, and enjoy an Appletini served in an ice glass. This unique 45-minute tour promises an unforgettable experience in a chillingly beautiful setting.
Experience the world's largest year-round ice environment!
Duration
45 minutes
Hightlights
- The Aurora Ice Museum is open every day, 365 days a year!
- 45 minute experience inside our Ice Museum
- Ice bar inside to enjoy an Appletini that is served in an ice glass
- Ice chapel where you can renew your vows or plan your wedding
- Check out our four hotel rooms inside our ice museum
- Picture perfect lights surrounding the museum
About
** Chena Hot Springs Resort** is home to the world’s largest year-round ice environment, the Aurora Ice Museum! It was created from over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, all harvested at the resort. The museum was completed in January 2005 and stays a cool 25° Fahrenheit (-7° Celsius) inside. Keeping the museum icy cold in the heat of summer comes from the patented absorption chiller, the first of its kind in the world used for this purpose!
Our Aurora Ice Museum Tour last for 45 minutes, starting at our activity center 5 minutes before your tour time. Your guide will take you to the Aurora Ice Museum building and give you instructions before entering. You will be able to pick up a parka before you enter free of charge. Your guide will go over some of the iconic ice sculptures and interesting facts about the museum before allowing you to free roam and take pictures! You can join us at our ice bar and enjoy your pre-purchased Appletini delicately served in our famous ice glass.
What to Bring
- Warm gloves and a warm hat.
- A valid ID if you purchased and Appletini served in an ice glass.
Adventure Tips
Dress warmly for the tour
Temperatures inside the ice museum are around 25°F, so layering is essential to stay comfortable.
Bring a camera
Photograph the intricate ice sculptures and vibrant lighting—low temperatures won’t harm your gear with proper protection.
Visit early in the day
Morning tours tend to be less crowded, giving you more time to admire the artistry and take photos.
Allow enough time for the experience
Set aside at least an hour to include travel, the tour, and some time to admire the sculptures after.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Moose
- Dall sheep
History
Chena Hot Springs has been a retreat for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure since the 1940s, blending natural hot springs with Alaska’s icy landscapes.
Conservation
The resort emphasizes sustainable tourism practices, including energy-efficient lighting and water conservation within the ice museum.
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Adventure Hotspots in Fairbanks
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm layered clothing
Layering helps you stay warm during the cold interior of the ice museum.
winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning ice carvings and lighting effects during your visit.
Insulated gloves
Protect your hands while holding a camera or just to comfortably enjoy the environment.
winter specific
Waterproof footwear
Wear shoes that keep your feet dry, especially if snow or slush is present outside.