NORTH POLE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Beneath the Aurora: A Night of Ice, Steam and Sky at Chena Hot Springs
An evening guided excursion from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort that combines a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, hot‑spring soaks, and chances to view the Northern Lights.
Beneath the Aurora: A Night of Ice, Steam and Sky at Chena Hot Springs.
Embark on a popular evening adventure to Chena Hot Springs Resort, roughly 60 miles from Fairbanks. The outing pairs a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum with dinner or drinks at the resort, a soak in the outdoor mineral hot springs and guided Northern Lights viewing—an arresting blend of sculpted ice, geothermal warmth and the Arctic night sky.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Soak under the Arctic Stars
Relax in outdoor mineral hot springs set in snow‑covered terrain and linger beneath the open sky; the soak is a central, rejuvenating element of the evening at Chena.
Aurora Ice Museum: Sculptures and an Ice Bar
Begin the night with a guided tour of the world‑famous Aurora Ice Museum to see detailed ice sculptures and the ice bar—where guests 21+ may optionally enjoy an Appletini in a hand‑carved ice glass.
Northern Lights in a Prime Viewing Location
Travel away from city lights for guided aurora viewing at one of Alaska’s best spots; guides point out the best viewing locations and offer tips while you wait for the Northern Lights.
What the day feels like
What the Evening Feels Like
The rhythm of the night is deliberate: an early evening pickup and scenic drive through interior Alaska, an immersive guided stop at the Ice Museum, an optional dinner at the cozy resort restaurant, then open‑air time to soak or stroll before watching the sky for auroral displays. Guides keep the group moving and point out wildlife and prime viewing spots, returning participants to Fairbanks just after midnight.
THE LANDSCAPE
Soak under the Arctic Stars
Relax in outdoor mineral hot springs set in snow‑covered terrain and linger beneath the open sky; the soak is a central, rejuvenating element of the evening at Chena.
THE ATTRACTIONS
Aurora Ice Museum: Sculptures and an Ice Bar
Begin the night with a guided tour of the world‑famous Aurora Ice Museum to see detailed ice sculptures and the ice bar—where guests 21+ may optionally enjoy an Appletini in a hand‑carved ice glass.
THE NIGHT SKY
Northern Lights in a Prime Viewing Location
Travel away from city lights for guided aurora viewing at one of Alaska’s best spots; guides point out the best viewing locations and offer tips while you wait for the Northern Lights.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this evening is best for — and who should take note of the restrictions.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pack a swimsuit, shower shoes and a towel for use in the outdoor mineral hot springs.
Swimsuit, shower shoes and towel are required for the hot‑spring soak; guests should bring these items with them.
Bring a swimsuit, shower shoes and towel if you plan to soak in the outdoor mineral hot springs.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the experience?
The outing runs approximately 10 hours.
When are pickups and drop‑offs scheduled?
Pickups occur between 4:00pm–4:45pm and drop‑offs are scheduled between 2:00am–4:00am, weather permitting.
Are children allowed to use the outdoor hot springs?
Children under 18 years old are not permitted in the outdoor rock pool.
What can I expect at the Aurora Ice Museum?
A guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum showcases ice sculptures and an ice bar where guests 21+ may optionally enjoy an Appletini in a hand‑carved ice glass.
What should I bring for the soak?
Bring a swimsuit, shower shoes and a towel for the outdoor mineral hot springs.
Will I have time for dinner at the resort?
There is an optional standing dinner reservation at 8:00pm and guests can dine or have a drink in the resort restaurant (meals not included).