ITINERARY FOR THE WEEKEND OF DECEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 29, 2024

New Year’s Eve in Fairbanks: Embrace the Arctic Chill with Cozy Indoor Activities

Experience the raw beauty of Fairbanks this New Year’s Eve with cozy indoor activities amidst the Arctic chill. Discover the allure of the Northern Lights and the warmth of Chena Hot Springs, making it a celebration to remember.

Embracing the Arctic Chill: A New Year’s Eve in Fairbanks

As the year draws to a close, Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a unique opportunity to embrace the Arctic chill with a blend of adventure and relaxation. The weather, with its biting cold and overcast skies, sets the stage for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. With temperatures plummeting to as low as -30.2°C, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting you to explore its icy beauty and cozy indoor activities.

The Chena Hot Springs and Ice Museum Tour is a must-do experience for those seeking to witness the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis. Available from 4:00 PM on December 28th to 2:00 AM on December 29th, this tour takes you on a 60-mile journey from Fairbanks to the Chena Hot Springs Resort. As you travel through the scenic Tanana State Forest, keep an eye out for wildlife such as moose and foxes. Upon arrival, you’ll be guided through the Aurora Ice Museum, where you can marvel at the impressive ice carvings and enjoy an appletini served in a hand-carved ice glass.

After the museum tour, indulge in a meal at the resort’s restaurant before taking a dip in the outdoor mineral rock pool. The warm waters, heated to 106°F, provide a soothing contrast to the frigid air, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind. As the night progresses, your guide will lead you to the best viewing locations for the Northern Lights, offering a chance to witness the multicolored display in the sky. Remember, the aurora is a natural phenomenon, and its appearance cannot be guaranteed, but the experience is sure to be memorable.

“This was the best experience of my life!” - Reviewed on 2024-11-06

Chena Hot Springs Tour

Cozy Retreats and Cultural Delights

For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the Chena Hot Springs and Aurora Viewing Tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration. Available from 5:00 PM on December 28th to 1:00 AM on December 29th, this tour combines the allure of Alaska’s finest hot springs resort with the captivating aurora viewing possibilities.

The journey begins with a scenic drive through the Tanana Valley State Forest, where the wilderness offers a glimpse of Alaska’s untamed beauty. Upon reaching the Chena Hot Springs Resort, you’ll embark on a short tour of the facilities, including the Ice Museum and Bar. The resort, powered by geothermal energy, is a testament to Alaska’s innovative spirit and commitment to sustainability.

After exploring the museum, immerse yourself in the world-famous hot springs, where the warm waters provide a welcome respite from the cold. As the evening unfolds, the tour shifts focus to the Northern Lights, with opportunities to view the auroras in and around the resort. The dark skies of the surrounding wilderness create the perfect backdrop for this celestial spectacle.

“Amazing experience!! So much better than the other ‘private tour’ that was twice the price.” - Reviewed on 2024-04-03

Aurora Viewing Tour

A New Year’s Eve to Remember

As the clock ticks towards midnight, Fairbanks offers a unique way to ring in the New Year. The combination of extreme cold and cozy indoor activities creates an atmosphere of warmth and wonder, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a different kind of celebration.

The Chena Hot Springs and Ice Museum Tour and the Chena Hot Springs and Aurora Viewing Tour provide a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, allowing you to experience the best of what Fairbanks has to offer. Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs, exploring the ice museum, or gazing at the Northern Lights, these tours promise an unforgettable New Year’s Eve.

As you embrace the Arctic chill and immerse yourself in the culture of Fairbanks, you’ll find that the city’s raw beauty and extreme climate offer a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience. So bundle up, venture out, and let Fairbanks captivate you with its winter magic.

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