5 Best Hotels in Fairbanks to see Northern Lights
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Fairbanks was my bucket list destination for witnessing the Northern Lights, and choosing one of the best Fairbanks hotels for Northern Lights viewing can make all the difference. There are plenty offering some of the best aurora viewing in the world. With its long winter nights and minimal light pollution, this Alaskan city gives families a front-row seat to one of nature’s most breathtaking shows.
But where you stay can make all the difference.
The right hotel provides not only prime viewing spots but also family-friendly comforts after a long day of adventure.
When I visited Fairbanks Alaska in the fall, I stayed at A Taste of Alaska Lodge, and it quickly became one of my all-time favorites. Based on my experience and research, here are the best hotels in Fairbanks to see Northern Lights with your family.
After exploring Fairbanks myself, I’ve rounded up the top family-friendly hotels that offer the best aurora views—so you don’t have to guess.
My Top 3 Picks: Hotels in Fairbanks to See Northern Lights
A Taste of Alaksa
Best for:
⭐️ Bed and Breakfast lovers
⭐️ Never missing the lights
⭐️ Space enough for big families
Borealis Basecamp
Best for:
⭐️ Luxury Experience
⭐️ Views from your room
⭐️ Unique Igloos
Chena Hot Springs
Best for:
⭐️ Zero light pollution
⭐️ See lights from the hot springs
⭐️ Disconnected adventure
I’ve been to or worked with Explore Fairbanks on this article, and poured my in-depth knowledge into the research so you don’t have to. All opinions are my own.
Let’s get to it.
1. Taste of Alaska
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 4531/4535 Badger Rd, Fairbanks, AK | ✅ Book it!
Why This Hotel?
A Taste of Alaska Lodge is a cozy, family-friendly spot perfect for Northern Lights viewing. I loved its welcoming vibe and close proximity to Fairbanks while still offering quiet, uninterrupted aurora sightings.
The check-in was smooth, and the staff was incredibly warm, setting the tone for a great stay.
However, the most noteworthy feature is the Northern Lights “alarms” in each room. Every night, at both the nearby Aurora Pointe and the Aurora Borealis viewing platform, the owners and visitors station themselves, ready for aurora viewing. If the lights are dancing in the sky, a doorbell at the viewing centers rings, alerting guests in each room that it’s time to step outside.
Since aurora viewing can occur in the wee hours, you might miss prime viewing. Additionally, if you’re an East Coast resident, 12 am is 4 am back home. The alarm ensures you don’t miss the stunning displays.
Location & Convenience
Located just outside Fairbanks, it’s a quick drive to attractions and restaurants, plus it’s far enough to avoid light pollution. Free parking is available, making it great for road-tripping families.
Room & Comfort
Rooms are spacious with plenty of storage, making them ideal for families. We stayed in a family suite, and it was quiet, comfortable, and well-equipped for our needs.
Amenities & Family-Friendliness
While there’s no pool, the free breakfast is a hit, and the lodge offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Wi-Fi is free but a bit spotty—enough for the basics.
Cleanliness & Safety
The rooms and public areas were clean and well-maintained, with good security measures like key-card access.
Cost & Value
Affordable compared to other Fairbanks hotels, with a great location and solid amenities. Booking directly is your best bet for avoiding extra fees.
Who This Hotel is Best For
Perfect for families wanting a quiet, intimate retreat with easy access to the Northern Lights and Fairbanks. I’d definitely stay here again!
2. Borealis Basecamp
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 2640 Himalaya Rd, Fairbanks, AK | ✅ Book it!
Why This Hotel?
Borealis Basecamp offers a unique Alaskan experience with its igloo-shaped accommodations designed for optimal Northern Lights viewing. The moment we arrived, the staff’s warmth and the cozy atmosphere made us feel right at home.
Location & Convenience
Situated about 45 minutes north of Fairbanks, the remote location ensures minimal light pollution, enhancing aurora visibility. While it’s a bit secluded, the provided transportation from Fairbanks makes access straightforward. Free parking is available for those driving.
Room & Comfort
The igloo-style rooms are spacious and comfortably accommodate families. The Family Suite Cube featured a queen bed, a pull-out couch, and a loft area, perfect for our teens. The large, curved windows offered breathtaking views of the night sky right from our beds.
Amenities & Family-Friendliness
On-site dining at Latitude 65 provided delicious meals, though a bit pricey. Activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and reindeer encounters keep teens engaged. Wi-Fi was available but occasionally spotty due to the remote location.
Cost & Value
While on the higher end, the unique experience and prime aurora viewing makes it worth the cost. Booking packages directly through their website often includes activities and meals, providing better value.
Who This Hotel is Best For
Ideal for families seeking a distinctive Alaskan adventure with a focus on Northern Lights viewing. The blend of comfort, activities, and natural beauty makes it a top choice for creating lasting family memories.
3. Chena Hot Springs Resort
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 56.5 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK | ✅ Book it!
Why This Hotel?
Chena Hot Springs Resort is a one-of-a-kind destination where you can soak in natural geothermal hot springs while watching the Northern Lights. The resort’s rustic charm, paired with its world-famous hot springs, makes it an unforgettable stay.
Location & Convenience
Located about 60 miles from Fairbanks, the resort’s remote setting provides minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot for aurora viewing. Driving in winter can be tricky, but shuttle services are available. Free parking is offered for road-tripping families.
Room & Comfort
Rooms are basic but comfortable, with simple furnishings and a cozy cabin-like feel. The family suites provide enough space, but if you’re looking for luxury, this isn’t the place. However, you’ll likely be spending most of your time outside soaking in the springs or chasing the aurora.
Amenities & Family-Friendliness
The hot springs are the highlight—steaming geothermal pools where you can relax under the Northern Lights. The pool house is olpen utnil 11:45 pm. There’s also an indoor pool for families with younger kids.
Other activities include dog sledding, snowmobile tours, and a fascinating ice museum. The on-site restaurant serves hearty meals.
Service & Hospitality
Staff are friendly, though service can be hit or miss during peak season. Booking tours in advance is recommended, as they fill up quickly.
Cleanliness & Safety
The hot springs are well-maintained, and the property feels safe.
Cost & Value
Rooms are fairly priced, especially considering the hot springs access. Booking directly with the resort often includes discounts on activities.
Who This Hotel is Best For
Perfect for families looking for a truly Alaskan experience—soaking in steaming hot springs while the aurora dances above is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. If you don’t mind a more rustic stay, this is one of the most unique ways to see the Northern Lights.
4. Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 1850 Hoselton Rd, Fairbanks, AK | ✅ Book it!
Why This Hotel?
Pike’s Waterfront Lodge offers a cozy yet convenient stay along the Chena River, combining easy access to Fairbanks with fantastic Northern Lights viewing. It’s family-friendly, with a welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful touches that make it stand out.
Location & Convenience
Just minutes from Fairbanks International Airport, Pike’s is ideal for families wanting both comfort and adventure. It’s a short drive to downtown Fairbanks, Pioneer Park, and University of Alaska’s Museum of the North. Free parking is a bonus for road-trippers.
Room & Comfort
Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with options for families, including cabins and suites. The décor is rustic but charming, and many rooms offer river views. The beds are comfortable, though noise levels can vary depending on the room location.
Amenities & Family-Friendliness
Families will love the Aurorium, a dedicated viewing lounge for the Northern Lights. There’s also an outdoor fire pit, mini-golf course, sauna, and on-site restaurant. Free hot breakfast is a perk, and the lobby offers fresh cookies—always a hit with kids and teens!
Service & Hospitality
Staff are friendly and accommodating, with helpful tips on aurora viewing. They even offer Northern Lights wake-up calls so you don’t miss a sighting.
Cleanliness & Safety
The property is well-maintained with secure keycard access. Rooms are clean, though some areas could use minor updates.
Cost & Value
Great value for Fairbanks, with free breakfast, parking, and airport shuttle. Booking direct often includes package deals on tours.
Who This Hotel is Best For
A great choice for families wanting a comfortable, affordable stay with aurora viewing perks. The blend of convenience, charm, and thoughtful amenities makes it a top pick for Northern Lights chasers.
5. Wedgewood Resort
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK | ✅ Book it!
Why This Hotel?
Wedgewood Resort offers spacious suites and a quiet, scenic setting, making it a fantastic base for families chasing the Northern Lights. Its location near Wedgewood Wildlife Sanctuary ensures a peaceful escape while still being close to Fairbanks attractions.
Location & Convenience
Nestled in a 120-acre nature preserve, the resort is just a few minutes from downtown Fairbanks. Families will love the proximity to the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, a hidden gem with rare vintage cars and historical exhibits. It was one of our favorite things to do in Fairbanks.
Room & Comfort
The apartment-style suites are perfect for families, featuring full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and large living areas. Rooms are comfortable, though the décor is a bit dated. The quiet setting ensures a good night’s sleep.
Amenities & Family-Friendliness
Guests can step outside for aurora viewing without city light pollution. The resort also offers walking trails, fitness facilities, and free shuttles to nearby attractions.
Service & Hospitality
The friendly staff provide great local tips, and check-in is smooth and efficient.
Cleanliness & Safety
The resort is well-maintained and secure, with keycard access and well-lit pathways.
Cost & Value
Mid-range pricing with spacious suites, free parking, and shuttle services makes this a great value for families needing space and convenience.
Who This Hotel is Best For
Ideal for families who want roomy accommodations, easy aurora viewing, and access to unique attractions like the Fountainhead Auto Museum.
Home Rentals
There are a number of Fairbanks home rentals that would be perfect for watching the Aurora. Many VRBOs are away from the city lights, and have wonderful viewing of dark skies needed.
Best Way to Watch the Northern Lights.
Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, but catching them requires a bit of planning. Here’s what you need to know:
Best Time to See the Northern Lights
- Peak Season: Late August through mid-April
- Best Hours: 10 PM – 3 AM (though activity can happen outside this window)
- Best Conditions: Clear, dark skies away from city lights
Tracking the Aurora: Best Apps & Websites
To increase your chances of seeing the aurora, use these tracking tools:
- My Aurora Forecast (App) – Shows KP index (aurora activity level) and cloud cover
- Aurora Alerts (App) – Sends push notifications when aurora activity spikes
- NOAA Aurora Forecast (Website) – Offers short-term and long-term predictions
- Aurora Forecast (UAF Geophysical Institute) – Localized Fairbanks forecasts
How to Read Aurora Forecasts
- KP Index (0-9): A higher number means a stronger aurora. In Fairbanks, a KP 2-3 is often enough for a good display.
- Cloud Cover: Even if the aurora is strong, you won’t see it if clouds block the sky. Look for clear or partly cloudy conditions.
- Solar Wind Data: If the Bz value is negative, auroras are more likely to be visible.
Best Viewing Locations
- Hotel Viewing Areas – Many Fairbanks hotels, like Wedgewood Resort, offer dark-sky locations right on-site.
- Aurora Pointe – A dedicated viewing lodge with indoor and outdoor viewing spaces.
- Murphy Dome – One of the highest points near Fairbanks for unobstructed views.
- Chena Hot Springs – Watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of a natural hot spring!
Extra Tips for Aurora Hunting
Use red light flashlights. This helps your eyes adjust to the dark without ruining your night vision.
Dress warmly! Layer up with insulated gear and bring hand warmers.
Be patient. Auroras can appear suddenly after hours of waiting.
Bring a tripod. If you want great photos, a tripod and a camera with manual settings are essential.
FAQ: Watching the Northern Lights in Fairbanks
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?
The aurora is visible from late August to mid-April, with peak activity occurring between 10 PM and 3 AM. Clear, dark skies are essential for a good viewing experience.
Do I need to leave Fairbanks to see the Northern Lights?
Not necessarily! Many hotels, like Borealis Basecamp and A Taste of Alaska, offer on-site viewing areas away from city lights. However, for the best experience, consider driving 20-30 minutes outside of town to reduce light pollution.
How cold does it get when viewing the Northern Lights?
Fairbanks winters can be extremely cold, often -20°F to -40°F (-29°C to -40°C). Wear layers, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat. If you’re staying at Chena Hot Springs, you can even watch from the warm water!
Can I take pictures of the Northern Lights with my phone?
Yes, but you’ll get better results with a DSLR or mirrorless camera on a tripod. If using a phone, enable night mode or use an aurora photography app.
Is there a guarantee I’ll see the Northern Lights?
No, since the aurora is a natural phenomenon. However, staying in Fairbanks for at least 3-4 nights improves your chances. Keep an eye on aurora forecasts and choose accommodations with good viewing access.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Fairbanks, you can’t go wrong with any of these. Add in that they have phenomenal opportunities to watch the Northern Lights, and it puts these over the top.
If I were to do it again, I’d stay at Chena Hot Springs and A Taste of Alaska again.
