FAIRBANKS WINTER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE

Steam, Ice, and Santa: A Full‑Day Circuit from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs

A full-day, hotel-transported tour from Fairbanks that pairs a scenic 60-mile (95-km) drive with a soak in Chena’s natural hot springs, a geothermal-energy demonstration, and a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum.

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Steam, Ice, and Santa: A Full‑Day Circuit from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs.

Duration

8 Hours

Location

Fairbanks

Operator

Aurora Camp

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

A 60‑mile scenic run out of Fairbanks

The tour covers a roughly 60‑mile (95‑km) drive from Fairbanks to the resort, an essential stretch that sets the rhythm for the day and delivers the remote feeling that makes the hot-springs arrival feel earned.

THE RELAXATION

Soak in Chena’s large outdoor pool

At Chena Hot Springs you can soak in the resort’s large outdoor pool—an opportunity to relax in natural hot water and contrast warm immersion with the surrounding Alaskan landscape.

THE WONDER

Ice sculptures and the Aurora Ice Museum

The Aurora Ice Museum showcases intricately carved ice sculptures and themed exhibits—one of the primary draws that makes the day both visually striking and singular to this part of Alaska.

What the day feels like

The day unfolds as a deliberate, full‑day circuit: a morning departure from Fairbanks, a steady scenic drive, a stop at Santa Claus House and arrival at Chena Hot Springs for time in the water, a tour explaining the resort’s geothermal energy use, and a visit through the Aurora Ice Museum’s sculpted chambers.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this day trip suits—and who should check details before booking.

Day‑trip RelaxersGood for travelers seeking a relaxed, single‑day excursion that includes pool time and relatively little strenuous activity, provided they can be on an 8‑hour outing.

Nature and Science CuriousIdeal for travelers interested in geothermal energy and engineered use of hot springs alongside natural scenery and unique attractions like the ice museum.

FamiliesAppropriate for families who can handle a full day away from town; verify age- or health-related restrictions with the operator before booking.

Travelers with limited mobilityThose with mobility concerns should check specific accessibility details and any health limitations with the operator ahead of time, since itinerary elements and access may vary.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

This is an approximately 8‑hour, full‑day tour.

Meeting & Pickup

Meeting point is at 2710 McCall St, Fairbanks, AK 99709; the tour also offers hotel transport.

Logistics

The route includes a scenic drive from Fairbanks to Santa Claus House and onward to Chena Hot Springs, with time at the resort and a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum.

What to Bring

Confirm recommended clothing and any swimwear or towel needs with the operator, Aurora Camp, before departure.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Santa Claus House Chena Hot Springs Tour?

The tour is approximately 8 hours in duration.

Where do I meet for the tour?

The meeting location is 2710 McCall St, Fairbanks, AK 99709.

What activities are included on the tour?

The day includes a scenic drive from Fairbanks, a stop at Santa Claus House, time to soak at Chena Hot Springs including its large outdoor pool, a tour highlighting geothermal energy use, and a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum.

Is hotel transport provided?

The tour is offered with hotel transport from Fairbanks.

What time does the drive typically depart?

The description notes a 10:30 AM drive from Fairbanks hotel toward Santa Claus House and Chena Hot Springs.

Will there be time to visit the Aurora Ice Museum?

Yes—the itinerary includes a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum to view ice sculptures as part of the full-day program.