Curator’s statement
Fairbanks sits beneath the auroral oval, making it one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. If you’re hoping to see the aurora from the Americas, this is where to be. In winter, the long dark nights create the perfect stage for ribbons of green and purple light to dance across the sky. Seeing the Northern Lights had long been a bucket list dream of mine, so visiting Fairbanks felt a little surreal. Nature, of course, is unpredictable, and while the lights didn’t appear directly overhead during my visit, we were lucky enough to see them glow and move across the sky. And honestly, just being there, standing under that huge Alaskan night, made the trip completely worth it. One of the most memorable parts of the experience was our guide, who had been chasing the aurora for decades. Every time the lights appeared, he would start shouting and running around like an excited kid, completely thrilled by the sky. Watching someone love their work and the natural world that much made the moment even more magical and absolutely entertaining on long frozen nights.
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Where to stay in Fairbanks
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Things to do in Fairbanks
Running Reindeer Ranch
Running Reindeer Ranch offers a unique chance to walk through the forest alongside a small herd of reindeer. The experience feels surprisingly peaceful and personal, and visitors learn about the animals and how they’re raised in Alaska. It’s a memorable and distinctly Alaskan activity.
Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park is a small historical park that highlights Fairbanks’ gold rush era. It includes preserved buildings, museums, and exhibits that showcase early frontier life in Alaska. In summer there are shops and restaurants open, but even outside peak season it’s an interesting place to walk and learn about the town’s origins.
Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
Creamer’s Field is a peaceful nature preserve just outside the city that offers walking trails through wetlands and forest. In the fall and spring it’s especially popular for birdwatching, but even in the colder months it’s a quiet place to stretch your legs and enjoy the surrounding landscape. It’s also a great spot for photography and spotting local wildlife.
Chena Hot Springs Resort
About an hour outside Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs is one of the most popular day trips in the area. Visitors can soak in the outdoor hot springs surrounded by snowy landscapes and crisp air, which feels especially incredible after a cold day outside. The resort also has an ice museum and offers activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling in the winter.
Chase the Northern Lights
Fairbanks is one of the most reliable places in the world to see the Northern Lights thanks to its location under the auroral oval. Guided tours often take visitors outside the city to darker viewing areas where the skies are clearer and light pollution is minimal. Guides also know where conditions are most promising on a given night and can help visitors photograph the aurora if they’re unsure of camera settings, making the experience much easier for first-time viewers.
Even your hotels will help you see the lights. When you check in, many locations will offer a “light wakeup call” This means if the lights appear within sight of the hotel, they will call your room. I took advantage of this and after my late arrival I told them to absolutely call me if they appeared. I wasn’t in my room for more than 30 minutes before they called to let me know I should go down to the main deck. It was absolutely worth it!
Places to eat & drink in Fairbanks
The Pump House Restaurant
Set in a historic gold-rush era building along the Chena River, The Pump House serves hearty meals and Alaskan specialties. It’s a cozy place to warm up after a cold evening outdoors.
Lavelle’s Bistro
A longtime local favorite known for comfort food and welcoming service. It’s a great stop for dinner after a night of chasing the Northern Lights.
Pike’s Landing Restaurant
Alaska is known for its seafood, and even in interior Alaska you’ll find excellent fish and chips. After a long, cold night outside, a plate of crispy fish with fries is a simple meal that really hits the spot. I stopped at Pike’s Landing for fish and chips, and a beer after several nights of chasing the Northern Lights, and it was incredible. Maybe I was just exhausted and frozen after long nights outside, but those fish and chips were so good I still think about them. The staff were also incredibly friendly, which made it an even better place to warm up and relax.
The Crepery
Located downtown, The Crepery is a favorite for breakfast or brunch. The restaurant serves both sweet and savory crepes filled with ingredients like brie, salmon, fruit, or chocolate. The casual atmosphere and creative menu make it a fun and slightly unexpected food stop in the middle of Alaska.
Big Daddy’s BarB-Q & Banquet Hall
If you’ve had your fill of fish, stop by Big Daddy’s serving Southern-style barbecue in the middle of Alaska, which makes for a fun and unexpected meal. The menu includes brisket, ribs, and smoked meats along with classic sides like baked beans and cornbread. It’s a lively and casual spot that feels very different from the seafood-focused restaurants in town.
Need to know
Winter temperatures in Fairbanks can drop well below 0°F (-18°C), so proper winter clothing is essential. Most aurora tour companies provide guidance on how to dress for the extreme cold. I ventured into the Arctic Circle and even before winter truly hits, it is bitter, bone-chilling cold even if you go in the fall.
Because the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings are never guaranteed. Staying at least three nights during the late fall into winter seasons, and remaining flexible gives you the best chance of seeing them.
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