Alaska’s interior hub and one of the world’s most reliable spots to see the Northern Lights.

Why Visit Fairbanks

Fairbanks sits far enough north and inland to offer clear, dark skies that make it one of the most accessible places on Earth to view the Aurora Borealis, with a season running from late August through April. Beyond the lights, the city is a jumping off point for dog sledding, hot springs, and summer’s near constant daylight under the midnight sun.

Top Experiences

  • Aurora Borealis viewing: Guided tours head outside the city lights to open areas with high odds of Northern Lights sightings on clear nights.
  • Chena Hot Springs: Natural hot springs an hour from town, with an ice museum and aurora viewing on site in winter.
  • Dog sledding tours: Rides and demonstrations with working Alaskan huskies, a core part of interior Alaska culture.
  • Museum of the North: University of Alaska museum covering the state’s Indigenous cultures, wildlife, and geology.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Fairbanks.

1 Hour Fairbanks Guided, Double Rider, Snowmobile Adventure

1 Hour Fairbanks Guided, Double Rider, Snowmobile Adventure

★ 5.0 (37)
From USD 260
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Private Fall Foliage Mushing Cart Ride in Fairbanks

Private Fall Foliage Mushing Cart Ride in Fairbanks

★ 5.0 (32)
From USD 155
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Aurora Sleighers Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks

Aurora Sleighers Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks

★ 5.0 (24)
From USD 495
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Arctic Circle & Northern Lights - Dalton Highway Tour

Arctic Circle & Northern Lights - Dalton Highway Tour

★ 5.0 (24)
From USD 379
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Extreme Cold Clothing Pkg - (Parka Snowpant Bibs Boots) No Tour

Extreme Cold Clothing Pkg - (Parka Snowpant Bibs Boots) No Tour

★ 5.0 (22)
From USD 65
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Private Northern Lights Photography Tour in Fairbanks, Alaska

Private Northern Lights Photography Tour in Fairbanks, Alaska

★ 5.0 (14)
From USD 360
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Practical Tips

  • Visit between late August and April for Aurora viewing, with September and March offering milder cold.
  • Dress in layers, interior Alaska winters regularly drop below negative twenty Fahrenheit.
  • Summer visitors get near 24 hour daylight, useful for extending sightseeing hours.

FAQ

Is Fairbanks a good place to see the Northern Lights?
Yes, it is considered one of the most reliable Aurora viewing locations in the world due to its northern latitude and dark skies.

When is Aurora season in Fairbanks?
Late August through late April, with the darkest, longest nights in December offering the most viewing hours.

What else is there to do in Fairbanks besides Aurora viewing?
Chena Hot Springs, dog sledding tours, and the University of Alaska Museum of the North.