As the night sky dances with ethereal hues, the ‘Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour From Fairbanks’ beckons travelers to witness nature’s celestial masterpiece. Imagine being surrounded by the tranquility of Alaska’s winter landscape while awaiting the captivating spectacle of the Aurora Borealis.
But this excursion offers more than just a visual feast of the Northern Lights; it invites guests to indulge in the serenity of Chena Hot Springs, creating a harmonious blend of relaxation and wonder. With an array of activities to engage in, this tour promises an experience that transcends the ordinary, leaving visitors eager to uncover the magic that awaits.
Key Points
- Guided tour to Chena Hot Springs Resort for Northern Lights viewing.
- Experience the Aurora Ice Museum and relax in hot mineral springs.
- Enjoy dinner options and various hot tubs at the resort.
- Accessible transportation, cold weather operation, and cancellation policy in place.
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Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable guided tour from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you can learn about the captivating beauty of the Northern Lights and unwind in soothing hot mineral springs.
Tour highlights include a scenic drive to the resort, a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum with optional appletini, and opportunities to relax in hot springs, outdoor hot tubs, or the heated indoor pool. Customers have praised the local cuisine available at the resort’s restaurant and shared mixed reviews on wildlife sightings.
With 829 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, guests appreciate informative guides, sightings of the Northern Lights, and the rejuvenating hot springs. This tour promises a magical experience blending nature’s wonders with relaxation and local delights.
Aurora Ice Museum Visit
Upon arriving at the Chena Hot Springs Resort, visitors are welcomed to explore the captivating Aurora Ice Museum, showcasing intricately carved sculptures and offering an optional appletini experience. The museum provides a unique experience with its frozen artistry and the chance to enjoy a delicious appletini. Visitors can also learn about the intricate process of creating ice sculptures and the history behind this remarkable form of art.
Here are five highlights of the Aurora Ice Museum visit:
- Witness stunning ice sculptures crafted with precision.
- Enjoy a refreshing appletini in a truly unique setting.
- Learn about the art of ice sculpting and its cultural significance.
- Marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship of the frozen masterpieces.
- Capture memorable photographs amidst the icy wonderland.
Hot Springs Experience
Guests at the Chena Hot Springs Resort can unwind and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs, offering a relaxing and therapeutic experience after a day of exploration. The resort features mineral pools that are rich in healing properties, providing visitors with various relaxation options.
Whether soaking in the outdoor hot tubs under the starlit sky or enjoying the heated indoor pool, guests can enjoy the soothing warmth of the mineral-infused waters. These mineral pools are known for their calming effects on both the mind and body, making them an ideal way to unwind and de-stress.
The hot springs experience at Chena Hot Springs Resort adds a luxurious touch to the overall adventure, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating stay.
Northern Lights Viewing
Visitors on the tour can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights at the Chena Hot Springs Resort, providing a stunning natural light show against the Alaskan night sky.
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Photography Tips
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Use a tripod for stability
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Longer exposure times for vibrant colors
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Adjust ISO settings for brightness
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Experiment with different lenses for unique shots
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Capture the surroundings for context
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Best Viewing Spots
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Open areas away from artificial lights
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The resort’s outdoor areas for unobstructed views
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Near the hot springs for a relaxing experience
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The Aurora Café for indoor comfort
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Ice Museum for a unique backdrop
Pickup and Transportation
As visitors prepare to witness the Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs Resort, seamless pickup and transportation services ensure a stress-free journey from Fairbanks to this prime viewing location. The tour offers accessibility options for wheelchair users, ensuring inclusivity. Here are the transportation logistics for the tour:
Transportation Logistics | Details |
---|---|
Pickup Locations | Fairbanks or North Pole hotels |
Pickup Time | Between 4pm-5pm |
Travel Distance | 60 miles east of Fairbanks |
Maximum Travelers | 14 |
Accessibility Options | Wheelchair accessible transportation |
With convenient pickup times and accessible transportation, visitors can focus on enjoying the captivating experience of the Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs Resort.
Tour Activities
Upon arriving at Chena Hot Springs Resort, guests can enjoy a guided tour of the enchanting Aurora Ice Museum, where intricately carved sculptures await discovery. The tour activities at Chena Hot Springs Resort offer a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation options, including:
- Guided exploration of the Aurora Ice Museum with optional appletini
- Dining options available at the on-site restaurant
- Relaxing in the hot mineral springs, outdoor hot tubs, or heated indoor pool
- Watching for the northern lights outside or from the cozy Aurora Café
- Enjoying the serene ambiance and natural beauty surrounding the resort
Visitors can unwind in the soothing hot springs while keeping an eye out for the mesmerizing northern lights dancing across the Arctic sky.
Additional Information
Enjoy the unique experience at Chena Hot Springs Resort by taking note of important additional information for your visit.
For those requiring accessibility options, the resort offers wheelchair-accessible transportation and facilities to ensure all guests can enjoy the experience.
As the tour operates in cold weather, it’s essential to dress appropriately with warm layers and winter gear. Remember to bring bathing suits, towels, quarters for lockers, and a photo ID for your visit.
Please note that there are restrictions for using the outside rock pool, and pregnant travelers should take precautions.
With a maximum of 14 travelers on the tour, it ensures a more intimate experience for all.
Make sure to follow these dress code suggestions and guidelines for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Cancellation Policy
The tour offers a full refund if travelers cancel 24 hours in advance, with no refunds granted for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled tour time. Understanding the refund policy and booking terms is crucial before making any reservations.
Here are some key points to note:
- Full refund available for cancellations made 24 hours before the tour
- No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled tour
- Changes to bookings aren’t accepted within 24 hours of the tour
- The tour requires a minimum number of travelers to operate
- Cancellation cut-off times are based on the local time zone
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Common questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Chena Hot Springs Tour?
Age requirements for the tour are generally family-friendly, but there may be restrictions for certain activities or facilities. Tour regulations ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, with specific guidelines in place.
Is There a Specific Time of Year When the Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights Are Higher?
In the best locations, under optimal conditions, the chances of seeing the northern lights are higher during the winter months in Fairbanks. Clear, dark nights between September and April offer prime opportunities for this natural spectacle.
Can Guests Bring Their Own Food or Drinks to the Chena Hot Springs Resort?
Guests cannot bring their own food to Chena Hot Springs Resort due to the various dining options available on-site. However, they may bring their own non-alcoholic beverages, as outside alcohol is not permitted on the premises.
Are There Any Wildlife Encounters to Be Aware of During the Tour?
While on the tour, travelers should be mindful of potential wildlife encounters. Safety precautions include staying in designated areas, not feeding animals, and following guide instructions. Enjoy the natural surroundings but respect the wildlife.
Are There Any Nearby Attractions or Activities That Guests Can Explore on Their Own During Their Visit to Chena Hot Springs Resort?
While visiting Chena Hot Springs Resort, guests can enjoy nearby activities like hiking trails, snowmobiling, and dog sledding for outdoor adventures. They can also explore local culture by visiting the Aurora Ice Museum or trying out ice fishing.
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Sum Up
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights and the relaxation of Chena Hot Springs on this unforgettable tour from Fairbanks.
With a visit to the enchanting Aurora Ice Museum, a dip in the soothing hot springs, and a chance to witness nature’s dazzling light show, this adventure promises a truly mesmerizing experience.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn about the beauty of Alaska’s Arctic sky.