Drive into the Alaskan night for a guided visit to the Aurora Ice Museum and a soak in 106°F mineral pools before waiting for the Aurora Borealis. This six-hour evening tour from Fairbanks pairs easy access with expert local guidance to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold, clear night on the Alaskan interior opens like a stage: conifers sliced by moonlight, a highway that hums toward a remote resort, and the promise of the aurora waiting beyond the pines.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, flat walks between vehicle, museum and hot springs
Wildlife
History
Chena Hot Springs evolved from early mineral prospecting and later became a public resort; the Ice Museum was built to celebrate northern ice-art traditions and attracts international carvers.
Conservation
The resort and guides emphasize low-impact viewing—stay on cleared paths, minimize vehicle idling, and avoid light pollution to preserve dark-sky conditions.
Reserve your spot on the Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in warm layers
Temperatures at night drop sharply—bring an insulated jacket, warm hat, gloves, and a windproof outer layer for viewing stops.
Bring a bathing suit & towel
Lockers require two quarters; bring ID if you plan to purchase alcohol at the resort bar.
Charge your camera and phone
Long-exposure photos and cold drains batteries fast—carry spares and a small tripod for aurora shots.
Plan for late return
Pickup occurs late afternoon with return after midnight; arrange childcare or next-day plans accordingly.
Insulated jacket and hat
Keeps you warm during outdoor viewing and roadside stops at night.
winter
Bathing suit & towel
Needed for access to the outdoor rock pool and indoor pool areas.
Headlamp or small flashlight
Useful for moving around the resort at night without disturbing other guests or camera setups.
Tripod and extra batteries
Stabilizes long-exposure aurora photos; cold depletes batteries quickly.