Adventure brief
Midnight Sun Magic Chena Hot Springs Soak and Ice Museum Tour
Witness Alaska’s midnight sun on a memorable evening tour with Northern Lights Tours Fairbanks. Visit the Aurora Ice Museum and relax in natural hot springs at Chena Hot Springs, blending Arctic art and nature’s warm embrace.
Northern Lights Tours Fairbanks invites travelers to a uniquely Alaskan summer experience: the Midnight Sun Magic Chena Hot Springs Soak and Ice Museum Tour. Located northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, Chena Hot Springs is renowned for its natural geothermal pools and the dazzling natural light phenomena of the midnight sun. This tour combines the surreal beauty of Alaska’s extended summer daylight with an immersive visit to the world-famous Aurora Ice Museum and a soothing soak in steamy natural hot springs.
Fairbanks sits just below the Arctic Circle, where summer days stretch into endless light, creating a rare window to witness the midnight sun. The journey to Chena Hot Springs meanders through boreal forest and open tundra, landscapes that brim with native spruce, birch, and cottonwood, and wildlife such as moose and migratory birds. At the Aurora Ice Museum, guests encounter breathtaking ice sculptures crafted by world champion carvers.
The museum preserves ice year-round, transforming the space into an art gallery sculpted from frozen water—the intricate designs shimmer in the cool light, offering a sharp contrast to the warm summer air outside. Following this chilly art encounter, participants unwind in the natural hot springs. These mineral-rich pools have been a destination for over a century for their reputed healing qualities and tranquil setting.
Bathed in the glow of the midnight sun, soaking here offers a rare combination of relaxation and Alaska’s dramatic natural scenery. Northern Lights Tours Fairbanks stands out with its commitment to small group sizes and knowledgeable guides, providing personal insight into the region’s ecology, culture, and legends. This experience is not just a trip but a well-rounded immersion where art, nature, and wellness converge in the Alaskan wilderness.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring layered clothingessential
Even in summer, temperatures near the hot springs and ice museum can vary widely; layers help you stay comfortable indoors and outdoors.
- 02Wear sturdy shoesinfo
Expect some uneven terrain around the hot springs and museum areas, so closed-toe, supportive footwear is recommended.
- 03Stay hydratedessential
Carry water to stay refreshed during the 6–7 hour tour, especially after soaking in warm mineral pools.
- 04Protect your camera gearwarning
Condensation can form moving between warm springs and cold ice interiors—use waterproof bags or cases to protect electronics.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Layered clothing
Adjust layers to stay comfortable transitioning between warm pools and cool ice museum environments.
summerEssentialWaterproof camera case
Helps protect camera gear from condensation during temperature shifts.
summerReusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tour and soak experience.
EssentialComfortable walking shoes
Provide stable footing on mixed terrain around the hot springs and museum.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Murie Mountain hiking trails near Fairbanks, Fairbanks Community Garden with local flora
Local fauna
Moose, Migratory gray jays
Historic heritage
Chena Hot Springs has been a wellness destination since the early 1900s, valued by native Alaskans long before becoming a public resort.
Mindful exploration
The area prioritizes sustainable tourism practices to protect delicate boreal ecosystems and keep geothermal waters clean.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Outside Chena Hot Springs pools, Inside the Aurora Ice Museum, Along the scenic route from Fairbanks
- Subjects
- Ice sculptures, Sunlit hot springs, Alaskan boreal forest
- Best times
- Golden hour (early evening), Midnight sun peak hours, Dusk
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour welcomes all ages and offers a gentle pace suitable for families.
Are bathing suits provided for the hot springs?
No, guests should bring their own swimwear for the soak in the natural hot springs.
What is the best time to see the midnight sun?
Late May through mid-July offers the brightest and longest periods of midnight sun in Fairbanks.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the Fairbanks area is included in the tour price.
Can photography be done inside the Aurora Ice Museum?
Photography is allowed but flash is prohibited to protect the delicate ice sculptures.
Are snacks or meals provided during the tour?
Light snacks and bottled water are provided, but guests may want to bring additional refreshments.