Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour in Fairbanks, United States
Fairbanks, United States

Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour

Outty Ranking 74 4.6 · 1,352 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom $275
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Outty Ranking

74/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.6/5

Based on 1,352 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour worth booking?

Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour is a 10-hour experience in Fairbanks, United States, from $275 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 1,352 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
74 / 100
Rating
4.6/5 (1,352)
Duration
10 hours
From
$275 per person

Embark on one of our most popular evening adventures to Chena Hot Springs Resort, a renowned Alaskan getaway just 60 miles from Fairbanks. Keep an eye out for moose, fox, or beavers as you travel through the scenic interior. Your night begins with a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, home to stunning ice sculptures and the famous ice bar, where you can optionally enjoy an Appletini in a hand-carved ice glass. Then relax with dinner or a drink in the cozy resort restaurant, featuring fresh, locally sourced produce (meal not included). Afterward, soak in the outdoor mineral hot springs, a rejuvenating experience under the stars, or explore the snowy grounds while waiting for a chance to witness the magical Aurora Borealis. Your guide will point out the best spots for viewing and provide tips to make the most of the night. PLEASE NOTE: You are eligible for a full refund up to 7 days before your tour.

What you get

    About this experience

    Embark on one of our most popular evening adventures to Chena Hot Springs Resort, a renowned Alaskan getaway just 60 miles from Fairbanks. Keep an eye out for moose, fox, or beavers as you travel through the scenic interior. Your night begins with a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, home to stunning ice sculptures and the famous ice bar, where you can optionally enjoy an Appletini in a hand-carved ice glass. Then relax with dinner or a drink in the cozy resort restaurant, featuring fresh, locally sourced produce (meal not included). Afterward, soak in the outdoor mineral hot springs, a rejuvenating experience under the stars, or explore the snowy grounds while waiting for a chance to witness the magical Aurora Borealis. Your guide will point out the best spots for viewing and provide tips to make the most of the night. PLEASE NOTE: You are eligible for a full refund up to 7 days before your tour.

    What's included

    Included

    • Admission to the Aurora Ice Museum
    • Resort Pool-Passes (outdoor hot springs, hot tubs & swimming areas)
    • Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off Services
    • Local Guide
    • Standing Dinner Reservation

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Resort Restaurant Meal Cost
    • Towels

    What you'll see and do

    1. Aurora Ice Museum

      After being picked up, sit back, relax and enjoy the 60 mile (97 kms) journey out to Chena Hot Springs Resort. Keep a lookout for wildlife that might include a moose, beaver or fox. Upon arrival, you’ll be given a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, constructed of over 1000 tons of ice and snow. Marvel at magnificent ice-sculptures created by world-renowned ice carvers, sit at the ice bar on a caribou-hide covered bar stool or indulge in an appletini served in a hand-carved ice glass (optional-not included in price). You will then be shown to our table in the restaurant where you can enjoy some dinner and hot or cold beverages (optional and not included in price). Rejoin your group a little after midnight and head back to Fairbanks. Your guide may make a few stops along the way for further aurora viewing if it is active. Please note the aurora is an act of nature and it's appearance cannot be guaranteed.

      45 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Chena Hot Springs Resort

      After arriving at the resort, you'll be taken to the restaurant where you can sample some home grown Alaskan fare (optional and not included in price). Enjoy a hot or cold beverage at the bar or don your bathing suit and head to the hot springs. The revitalizing mineral water soothes muscles with its warm temperatures of 106 degrees F (41 degrees C) year-round. You can soak under the stars in an outdoor hot tub, or indoors in the heated pool. When ready, join your expert guide for a small-group outing to view the Aurora Borealis. Your guide will lead you through one of the best places on earth to witness the green and purple illuminations loop across the night sky. Wait and witness the celestial wonder in the late evening, when viewing opportunities are the highest. The lights are also visible inside the cafe's Aurora Room, which serves as a comfortable and warm location for viewings. Note: We can never guarantee the Northern lights sighting.

      360 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Alaska Wild Lights

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Operates in cold weather conditions; please dress appropriately
    • Please don't forget to bring bathing suits, bath towels, at least 2 quarter for each locker and photo ID for purchases at the bar.
    • The outside rock pool is only allowed for adults 18 years and up. However, children are allowed in the inside pool.
    • Pregnant travelers are not allowed in the outside rock pool.
    • We have enough room for a foldable wheelchair. The hot springs are wheelchair accessible.
    • We can only pick up from inside the city limits of Fairbanks or North Pole. For other locations, you will need to go to an agreed location (eg Walmart), please contact our office to discuss if you are staying outside the city limits.
    • Water is not supplied for this tour. We recommending bringing a refillable water bottle.
    • Every guest must sign a waiver before any tour so they clearly acknowledge the inherent risks of wilderness travel, assume responsibility for their own safety, and confirm they are medically able to participate.

    Photos

    Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour in Fairbanks, photo 2Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour in Fairbanks, photo 3Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour in Fairbanks, photo 4Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour in Fairbanks, photo 5Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour in Fairbanks, photo 6Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour in Fairbanks, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,350 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Pace and timing

    2 mentions

    Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

    Traveler reviews

    1,350 verified traveler reviews for Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    1,080
    4 star
    134
    3 star
    56
    2 star
    35
    1 star
    45
    Sort
    ANDRA_D · October 2026

    Hot springs & phenomenal northern lights

    Hands down the 2 best tour guys we have ever had! The knowledge and joy they put into their work was above & beyond all night. Rachel was an excellent driver, that’s a compliment coming from me, Rich was riding along but together they were the perfect guides.

    via Viator

    365eleanorl · September 2026

    Took 3 of your tours a great experience

    The last tour to Chena Hot Springs and the Aurora Lights. Was amazing, I got to see the Northern Lights. Our tour guide was very professional The only problem was his microphone and speaker weren't working and we couldn't hear him on the back 2 rows. He may have a sore throat the next few days. Again, thank you for the lovely experience. Sincerely Eleanor Lalla

    via Tripadvisor

    Kate_M · September 2026

    Aurora Chena

    It is a rare & unpredictable event controlled by Mother Nature. Last night was special! The hot springs were small & crowded. Ripley was patient and helpful.

    via Viator

    monicarG3242EV · September 2026

    Chena Springs is a must do experience!

    Unfortunately our guide was inexperienced and should have had an experienced trainer with him. He did not effectively explain points of interest on the drive nor much explanation of the Aurora. The van was not optional for viewing while driving, many cracks in windshield. Although going in the Hot Springs was amazing! Ice Museum was cute to see too.

    via Tripadvisor

    Soner_D · September 2026

    Perfect experience about Ice Museum, I ca Bar, and hot springs.

    Perfect experience about Ice Museum, I ca Bar, and hot springs. Perfect dinner. Thank tou so much perfect friendly adventure.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    10 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    473
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Alaska Wild Lights, who run 8 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 68.3.

    See everything Alaska Wild Lights runs

    Why this scores 74

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)72
    Review evidence (18% weight)98
    Booking momentum (14% weight)98
    Value for money (12% weight)83
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)31
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Fairbanks.

    How much does Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $275 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Fairbanks usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Fairbanks is not rushed.

    Is Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 1,352 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Fairbanks, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour?

    +

    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour?

    +

    Around 473 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Fairbanks can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Fairbanks and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Fairbanks within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Fairbanks?

    +

    Fairbanks is the aurora capital of interior Alaska: heated viewing lodges, late-night chase tours, Arctic Circle day drives up the Dalton Highway, dog sledding and summer riverboat cruises. On Outty we rank every Fairbanks experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Northern Lights - Aurora with FREE Photos - Arctic Night Tours, Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience in North Pole, Fairbanks Ice Fishing Expedition in a Heated Cabin with Fish Cookout. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Fairbanks?

    +

    Late August to April for aurora, June to August for midnight-sun river trips. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Fairbanks?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour?

    +

    Included: Admission to the Aurora Ice Museum; Resort Pool-Passes (outdoor hot springs, hot tubs & swimming areas); Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off Services; Local Guide; and Standing Dinner Reservation. Not included: Gratuities; Resort Restaurant Meal Cost; and Towels. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 30 listed pickup locations in and around Fairbanks.

    What languages is Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; and Pregnant travelers are not allowed in the outside rock pool. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour?

    +

    Across 1,352 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.

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