Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The city is located within the auroral oval, a region where the Earth’s magnetic field lines are strongest and the Northern Lights are most frequently visible. In Fairbanks, the Northern Lights can be seen from late August to early April, with the best viewing months being September and March.
There are several factors that contribute to Fairbanks’ excellent Northern Lights viewing conditions. First, the city is located at a high latitude, which means that it is closer to the North Pole and the auroral oval. Second, the area around Fairbanks is relatively flat and open, with few trees or other obstructions to block the view of the sky. Finally, the city has a very dry climate, which means that there is less cloud cover and more clear nights for Northern Lights viewing.
There are many great places to stay in Fairbanks for Northern Lights viewing. Here are seven of the best:
Aurora Winter Lodge
Aurora Winter Lodge is a small, family-run lodge that is located about 20 miles outside of Fairbanks. The lodge offers a variety of accommodations, including private cabins, shared rooms, and a yurt. The lodge also has a common area with a fireplace and a kitchen, where guests can relax and socialize.
Aurora Winter Lodge is a great place to stay for Northern Lights viewing because it is located in a remote area with minimal light pollution. The lodge also offers a variety of activities for guests, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding.
Borealis Basecamp
Borealis Basecamp is a unique hotel that is located in the heart of Fairbanks. The hotel is made up of a series of large, heated tents that are equipped with beds, linens, and heat. The hotel also has a common area with a fireplace and a kitchen, where guests can relax and socialize.
Borealis Basecamp is a great place to stay for Northern Lights viewing because it is located in a central location with easy access to restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The hotel also offers a variety of activities for guests, including aurora viewing tours, dog sledding, and snowshoeing.
Chena Hot Springs Resort
Chena Hot Springs Resort is a large resort that is located about 60 miles outside of Fairbanks. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including hotel rooms, cabins, and villas. The resort also has a variety of amenities, including hot springs, a spa, and a restaurant.
Chena Hot Springs Resort is a great place to stay for Northern Lights viewing because it is located in a remote area with minimal light pollution. The resort also offers a variety of activities for guests, including dog sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Fairbanks Princess Cruises
Fairbanks Princess Cruises offers a unique way to see the Northern Lights. The cruise line offers a variety of cruises that depart from Fairbanks and travel to different parts of Alaska. The cruises include stops at several ports, where guests can go ashore and explore the local area.
Fairbanks Princess Cruises is a great way to see the Northern Lights because it offers a comfortable and convenient way to travel. The cruises also include a variety of activities, such as wildlife viewing, glacier trekking, and whale watching.
Four Points by Sheraton Fairbanks
Four Points by Sheraton Fairbanks is a modern hotel that is located in the heart of Fairbanks. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Four Points by Sheraton Fairbanks is a great place to stay for Northern Lights viewing because it is located in a central location with easy access to restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The hotel also offers a comfortable and convenient way to see the Northern Lights.
The Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center
The Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center is a large hotel that is located in the heart of Fairbanks. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center is a great place to stay for Northern Lights viewing because it is located in a central location with easy access to restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The hotel also offers a comfortable and convenient way to see the Northern Lights.
Culture
The Fairbanks area is home to a diverse population of Alaska Natives, Europeans, and Asians. The city has a rich cultural history, and there are many opportunities to learn about the local culture. Visitors can visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North, which houses a collection of over one million artifacts from Alaska and the Arctic. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Fairbanks for Northern Lights viewing are September and March. These months offer the longest hours of darkness and the clearest skies. However, the Northern Lights can be seen from late August to early April.
Nearby Transportation
Fairbanks is served by the Fairbanks International Airport (FAI). The airport is located about 5 miles from the city center. There are several airlines that offer flights to Fairbanks, including Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines.
Local Food
Fairbanks has a variety of restaurants that offer a wide range of cuisines. Visitors can find everything from American classics to international fare. Some of the most popular local dishes include salmon, reindeer sausage, and Eskimo ice cream.
Conclusion
Fairbanks is a great place to visit for Northern Lights viewing. The city offers a variety of accommodations, activities, and attractions. Visitors can choose from a variety of places to stay, including hotels, lodges, and resorts. There are also a variety of activities available, such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Fairbanks is also a great place to learn about the local culture and history.
