Planning a trip to Fairbanks and eager to catch the Northern Lights while relaxing in natural hot springs? This tour, operated by Heart of Alaska Tours, promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, fun, and comfort, making it a popular choice. With a consistently high rating and glowing reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this adventure both memorable and worthwhile.
What I love about this experience is how it combines several unique Alaskan highlights—from the Ice Museum’s intricate sculptures to the soothing waters of Chena Hot Springs, topped with a potential sky-show of the Aurora Borealis. Plus, the personal touch of knowledgeable guides makes all the difference.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that seeing the Northern Lights is weather-dependent. Cloud cover or poor conditions can mean no spectacular show, which might be a disappointment if that’s your main goal. But even without the lights, the hot springs and ice museum provide plenty of value.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxed soaking, cultural sights, and the chance to see Alaska’s iconic natural phenomenon, the Aurora. It’s perfect for those wanting a well-rounded, guided experience with local insights and comfort.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Experience: The tour covers transportation, ice museum entry, and hot springs access for $225, offering good value considering the variety.
- Flexible and Personal: Small-group size (up to 12 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, with guides who are knowledgeable and attentive.
- Weather Dependent: Aurora viewing hinges on clear skies, but the tour still offers memorable moments at the ice museum and hot springs.
- Authentic Alaskan Attractions: From ice sculptures to natural thermal waters, the stops showcase genuine local sights.
- Great for Relaxation and Sightseeing: The hot springs provide relaxing thermal waters, complemented by cultural and natural sights along the way.
- Highly Rated: With a perfect overall rating based on 29 reviews, it’s clearly a favorite among past travelers.
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Contents
- Key Points
- The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Northern Lights and Hot Springs Tour
- Pickup and Scenic Drive
- Visit to the Ice Museum
- Relaxing in Chena Hot Springs
- Aurora Hunting and Nighttime Magic
- Optional Extras and Food
- Transportation, Duration, and Group Size
- What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
- Value for Money
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Fairbanks
- More Spa & Hot Springs in Fairbanks
- More Tour Reviews in Fairbanks
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Fairbanks we have recnetly reviewed
The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Northern Lights and Hot Springs Tour
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Pickup and Scenic Drive
Starting at 5:00 PM, the tour begins with a pick-up from Fairbanks lodging—a big plus for convenience. The guides coordinate pickups from accessible hotels and lodges, with one calling upon arrival to confirm. The drive, just over an hour, takes you through stunning Alaskan scenery, where spotting a moose isn’t out of the question—a bonus for wildlife enthusiasts.
A common theme in reviews is how smoothly the transportation runs. As one reviewer put it, “Gavin was a great driver, giving extra time and making sure everyone felt safe, even under tricky conditions.” The small group size allows for personalized attention, which travelers appreciate.
Visit to the Ice Museum
Your first stop is the Ice Museum, claimed to be the world’s first ice museum. Here, you’ll marvel at intricately carved ice sculptures, which are beautiful, especially in the soft glow of the museum’s lighting. For an extra fee, you can indulge in an appetizer-style appletini served in an ice glass, which adds a fun, Instagram-worthy twist.
Reviews highlight how much guests enjoyed this part of the trip. One quip: “The ice museum was fabulous, and the guide even took pictures of us soaking in the hot springs,” indicating how memorable and engaging this stop can be.
Relaxing in Chena Hot Springs
Next, you’ll head to Chena Hot Springs Resort, famous for its natural rock pools and therapeutic waters. After a short walk or bus ride, you’ll find yourself in a warm, mineral-rich hot spring pool—a perfect place to relax after the drive.
Past travelers consistently praise the hot springs—“Great soaking experience,” says one. Others mention how the waters are both therapeutic and soothing, making it an ideal way to unwind while enjoying Alaska’s cool air.
Note that the resort’s restaurant may be busy, and long waits are common, so some choose to bring snacks or plan accordingly.
Aurora Hunting and Nighttime Magic
As night falls, the guide will attempt to find the best spot to view the Northern Lights. While weather can be unpredictable, guides are well-practiced at chasing clear skies and will often make stops for photo opportunities. Many reviews recount how guides like Kevin or Nate went above and beyond—stopping at remote locations, capturing photos, and sharing fascinating information about the Aurora.
Even if the light show doesn’t materialize, the experience of being out in the crisp Alaskan night, with a cozy fire and sometimes reindeer sausages, makes for an unforgettable evening. One traveler shared, “Kevin made the evening cozy, with a campfire and s’mores, even when the skies stayed cloudy.”
Optional Extras and Food
While dinner isn’t included, the tour offers opportunities to purchase food at the resort or enjoy a casual cookout near the fire. Some guests have appreciated the chance to roast reindeer sausage and enjoy hot cocoa, especially when the Aurora is elusive.
Transportation, Duration, and Group Size
This 9-hour tour starts early evening, allowing you to experience the best of night and early morning sights. Pickup is from all accessible Fairbanks lodging, with guides calling upon arrival—adding convenience to your evening.
The small group size (max 12 guests) allows for a more tailored experience. Many reviews note how guides like Kevin or Gavin offered personalized attention, shared insightful stories, and responded to individual interests.
The cost, $225 per person, covers transportation, ice museum entry, hot springs access, and locker use, which collectively offers good value. The tour often gets booked 55 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
From the glowing reviews, what really shines is the knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing Alaska’s wonders. Many guests praise Kevin’s expertise, friendliness, and willingness to go the extra mile—whether that’s capturing photos or seeking out the best Aurora viewing spots.
The combination of cultural highlights (ice sculptures), natural relaxation (hot springs), and potential sky-stunning Aurora Borealis makes for a well-rounded experience. Even if the Northern Lights don’t appear, travelers report feeling satisfied due to the relaxing hot springs and fascinating ice museum.
Plus, the small group size and flexible, responsive guide service ensure you don’t feel like just another number. This personal touch makes the experience stand out against larger, more commercial tours.
Value for Money
At $225, this tour offers a lot: entertainment, relaxation, cultural insights, and the chance to see one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays. Many reviews call it a “great value” and appreciate the personalized service. The inclusion of transportation, ice museum, hot springs, and locker use in the price makes it straightforward—no hidden fees.
While the Aurora viewing is weather-dependent, the tour’s design ensures that even on cloudy nights, you get a memorable experience with plenty of sights and stories. Plus, the opportunity to soak in mineral waters and see ice carvings makes it more than just a “lights tour.”
The Sum Up
This Spectacular Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Experience is a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated adventure for travelers seeking relaxation, cultural sights, and the chance to glimpse Alaska’s iconic Aurora. It balances guided expertise with freedom to enjoy the natural and man-made wonders of Fairbanks.
Ideal for those who appreciate small groups, authentic experiences, and scenic comfort, it’s a tour that offers genuine value for the price. Even if the Northern Lights decide to play hide and seek, the hot springs and ice museum ensure a rewarding visit.
For travelers eager to combine cultural curiosity, natural beauty, and a touch of Arctic magic, this tour delivers an authentic, memorable journey that captures the spirit of Alaska.
Spectacular Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Experience
“Hot springs are great! The guide took pictures us soaking in the hot springs! But it was cloudy and no spectacular auroras could be seen.”
FAQ
How early do pickups start?
Pickups begin as early as 4:30 PM from accessible lodgings in Fairbanks, ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy all the stops.
What is included in the tour price?
The $225 fee covers transportation, admission to the Ice Museum, access to hot springs, and use of a locker for your belongings.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
The guide will do their best to find clear skies, but Aurora viewing depends on weather conditions. There’s no guarantee, but many guests still find the night enjoyable.
How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a full evening adventure that starts with pickup and ends late at night.
Is dinner included?
No, dinner isn’t included, but options are available at the resort or nearby. Some guests enjoy a fire-side cookout with reindeer sausages and hot cocoa.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially for the Aurora hunt and night-time outdoor stops. Layers, insulated boots, hats, and gloves are recommended.
Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour size is limited to 12 guests, making it comfortable and personalized. Service animals are allowed.
This tour offers a genuine taste of Alaska’s natural and cultural riches, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and awe. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or soaking in mineral waters, it’s a memorable way to experience the north’s magic.
