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Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights Tour

Excursion Overview

Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs: Aurora Borealis Adventure

Experience one of the most popular tours in the Fairbanks area with a visit to the world-famous Chena Hot Springs Resort, where guests can relax in naturally heated mineral pools year-round. The resort features two options: an indoor hot tub open to all ages and an adult-only outdoor soaking pool, both offering a unique way to enjoy Interior Alaska’s freezing temperatures while wearing a bathing suit. This tour also includes a guided visit to the Aurora Ice Museum, home to over 1,000 tons of ice and snow sculpted into intricate works of art, kept at a chilly 25°F (parkas provided).

The Chena Hot Springs Aurora Tour combines relaxation with adventure, offering one of the best locations in Alaska for viewing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Guests travel approximately 60 miles from Fairbanks via round-trip scenic transportation and can optionally enjoy a meal at the resort’s restaurant featuring locally grown vegetables and Alaskan seafood (dinner not included). While the Aurora cannot be guaranteed, the tour runs during peak viewing season, giving travelers the best chance to witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon in all its glory.

This tour is typically available from August through April. Our excursions were designed for cruise ship passengers but are available to everyone.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Round-trip transportation from Fairbanks-area hotels
  • Admission to the Aurora Ice Museum
  • Access to Chena Hot Springs Resort's outdoor hot springs pools
  • Knowledgeable guide with expertise in northern lights viewing and forecasting
  • Northern lights hunting and aurora viewing opportunities during the return journey
  • Comfortable, climate-controlled transportation with scenic stops

Requirements:

  • Bathing suit, bath towel, shower slippers (if needed), and 50 cents for the locker (2 quarters)
  • Valid photo ID is required if you plan to purchase alcohol
  • Any meals purchased at the resort’s restaurant are not included in the tour price
  • Children under 18 and pregnant guests are not allowed in the outdoor hot springs but may use the indoor pool
  • The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon; their presence cannot be guaranteed, and refunds will not be issued if they are not visible

Duration: Approximately 10 hours (Roundtrip from Fairbanks area hotel or Airbnb.)

  • 30 minutes - guests are picked up from Fairbanks-area hotels and the guide provides an overview of the evening's activities, aurora forecast, and viewing conditions
  • 1 hour - scenic drive to Chena Hot Springs
  • 1.5 hours - arrive at Chena Hot Springs Resort and enjoy a 30-minute visit to the Aurora Ice Museum, showcasing hand-carved ice sculptures kept at 25°F year-round. Optional ice glass apple martini available for purchase.
  • 2 hours - dinner is available for purchase at the resort restaurant, featuring hearty Alaska cuisine and local options (guests may also bring their own snacks if preferred)
  • 2.5 hours - guests enjoy up to 4 hours at Chena Hot Springs, soaking in outdoor mineral pools (90°F–110°F) surrounded by snow, with optional time for the greenhouse, gift shop, or other resort activities. Northern lights may be visible from the pools during high activity nights.
  • 1 hour - depart for Northern Lights hunting
  • 1 hour - scenic stops along the drive back to Fairbanks for Aurora viewing
  • 30 minutes - guests are dropped off at Fairbanks hotels. The total tour duration is approximately 10 hours. Northern lights timing may adjust the schedule, with extended viewing possible during strong aurora activity while maintaining safe return times.

Meeting Instructions:

  • Hotel or Airbnb pick-up from within Fairbanks or North Pole city limits. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

  • This tour is limited mobility accessible. Only folding wheelchairs are allowed due to the size of the van/bus. Please advise us in advance if you have any special requirements in relation to mobility issues.

    • Fully Wheelchair Accessible: No
    • Limited Mobility Accessible: Yes
    • Stroller Accessible: Yes
    • Collapsible Wheelchair & Stroller Storage Available: Yes

Refund Policy:

  • You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, and its presence cannot be guaranteed on any specific date. Refunds will not be issued if the Northern Lights are not visible. On average, the Aurora is visible in the Fairbanks area four out of five nights during the viewing season.

Yes, bring your own swimsuit. Swimsuits are available for purchase at the resort. Towels can be rented on-site for $5, or bring your own. We recommend bringing your own towel for convenience.

No, dinner at Chena Hot Springs restaurant is not included but is available for purchase. Alternatively, bring snacks if you prefer not to purchase dinner.

Often times you can. During strong aurora activity, northern lights are visible directly from the outdoor hot springs pools at Chena Hot Springs. This creates a unique experience of watching aurora borealis displays while soaking in 100°F natural mineral water surrounded by snow.

You will spend approximately 4-5 hours at Chena Hot Springs Resort, including time for Aurora Ice Museum tour, dinner, and hot springs soaking.

No, guests are not required to visit the Ice Museum or join the group for the dinner reservation. You are welcome to explore Chena Hot Springs at your leisure.

Layered clothing is always recommended for Alaskan weather.  We recommend you wear closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate attire. For more detailed packing tips for your Alaskan vacation, check out our What to Pack for Your Alaskan Cruise guide.

 

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$275.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$275.00

Duration: 10 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 10 hours



Adult (18+): $275.00

Child (0-17): $240.00

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