Where to Stay in Fairbanks for Northern Lights 2026
Fairbanks is North America's best northern lights destination (aurora score: 9/10). The key accommodation decision: stay in town for convenience, or drive out to a lodge for darker skies.
Best Options
Chena Hot Springs Resort (60 miles from Fairbanks)
Price: $200–350/night | Aurora Score: 9/10 The #1 choice for aurora in Fairbanks. Natural hot springs + northern lights = soaking in steaming water while aurora dances overhead. Dark skies, dedicated aurora viewing area, ice museum. Book 2–3 months ahead.A Taste of Alaska Lodge (20 miles from Fairbanks)
Price: $180–280/night | Aurora Score: 9/10 Hillside lodge with panoramic views of the Alaska Range. Aurora wake-up calls. Breakfast included. One of TripAdvisor's top-rated Fairbanks properties.Borealis Basecamp (20 miles from Fairbanks)
Price: $250–400/night | Aurora Score: 9/10 Glass-roofed cubes in the wilderness — Alaska's answer to Finnish glass igloos. Heated, with clear views of the aurora from bed. Sells out fast.Downtown Fairbanks Hotels
SpringHill Suites / Hampton Inn — Standard chain hotels, $120–180/night. Convenient for restaurants and supplies. Join a guided aurora tour that drives out of town.Pike's Waterfront Lodge — Riverfront rooms, $150–220/night. More character than chains. Restaurant on-site.
Tips
- Chena Hot Springs is the must-do experience — even as a day trip if not staying overnight
- Borealis Basecamp is Alaska's best glass igloo experience — book months ahead
- Car rental is essential ($50–70/day) — Fairbanks is spread out
- Extreme cold: January averages -22°C — ensure your car has an engine block heater (standard in Alaska rentals)