Fairbanks is one of Alaska’s best locations to gaze upon the magical Northern Lights. To enjoy the experience, we’ve identified some hotels where you can potentially see this phenomenon. We’ll show you luxury resorts, cozy lodges, and modern villas. There are rooms for couples, families, and even pets. While some places have floor-to-ceiling windows, suites with private balconies offer better views. Before we review the top-rated Fairbanks hotels, here are our tips to see the Northern Lights.
Fairbanks Hotels with Best Views
- A Taste Of Alaska Lodge – Set outside the city, this cozy lodge offers a one-of-a-kind alternative to Fairbanks hotels. You’ll enjoy a first-hand look at Alaska’s natural beauty, including views of the Alaska Range and Mt. Denali. Since it’s further out from the city lights, offers clear views of the night skies and the Northern Lights.
- Northern Sky Lodge – This timber lodge sits in a remote location 50 kilometers outside of Fairbanks. But this isolated location is worth the trip, offering unspoiled views of Alaska’s night skies. The furnished observation deck is the best place to watch the Northern Lights when they appear.
Fairbanks Hotels in the Best Location
- Pikes Waterfront Lodge – This waterfront lodge sits right on the banks of Fairbank’s scenic Chena River. It’s within a 5-minute drive of Fairbanks International Airport and it’s next to the popular Pike’s Landing restaurant. It’s the ideal spot to view the Northern Lights, either from the enclosed glass conservatory or the riverside deck.
- Sophie Station Suites – Sophie Station Suites is a 4-star hotel in West Fairbanks, close to shops, restaurants, and the University of Alaska. They’re close to Fairbanks International Airport and Alaska Train Depot. Shuttle services are available to both locations too. They also offer great views of the Northern Lights and a wake-up call if they appear late at night.
Most Affordable Fairbanks Hotels
- Pikes Waterfront Lodge – If you book your stay at Pike’s Waterfront Lodge in November or December you’ll enjoy their best rates, starting at $135 USD per night. It’s a great time to visit, as the best viewing times for the Northern Lights are late fall and winter.
- Northern Sky Lodge – This remote lodge outside Fairbanks is one of the more popular places to see the Northern Lights. For the best sightings, you’ll want to book your stay between October and February. Depending on availability, rooms may be as low as $149 USD per night.
Best Time To See Northern Lights in Fairbanks
Located near the Artic Circle, Fairbanks is the ideal destination to see the Northern Lights. It’s far from the city lights, with a better chance for clear skies. The best times for viewing are the winter months, especially late November to early March. This period offers the longest, darkest nights, and the cold dry air enhances the visibility. Keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings are never guaranteed. But if you’re patient and willing to brave the cold, you have the best chance of a successful viewing in Fairbanks.
1. A Taste of Alaska Lodge
At A Taste of Alaska, you can spend your vacation in a charming timber lodge. Away from the center, this boutique hotel is excellent for Northern Lights viewing. You’ll love the cozy cabins surrounded by pine forests on this huge property. During winter, the lodge organizes fun adventure activities like dog sled rides and snowshoeing in the woods. There are private cabins designed for couples and families, all fitted with full-size kitchens and living spaces. Although you won’t have to cook in the morning. A continental breakfast is included in the price which includes bread, cereals, fresh fruits, juices, and pastries.
- Guest Reviews: The room was clean and comfortable. Great breakfast and the views were fantastic.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: Superior quadruple room
- Address: 551 Eberhardt Road, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States
2. Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
Sandwiched between Fairbanks International Airport and the Chena River sits Pike’s Waterfront Lodge. They have an Aurora Conservatory enclosed in 3 glass walls so you can enjoy the Northern Lights indoors. If you prefer fresh air, there’s the Riverfront Deck with a firepit to keep everyone warm. Inside, there are a number of cozy rooms to choose from. But if you want something extra comfy, pick a room with jetted hot tubs or a private fireplace. In the morning, enjoy a continental buffet breakfast to start the day off properly. Other facilities onsite include a gift shop, a 24-hour gym, and a coin-operated laundrette. You can also request a free airport pick-up or drop-off.
- Guest Reviews: Our cabin was very comfortable, and the wake-up call to view the Northern Lights was a nice touch.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: King rooms
- Address: 1850 Hoselton Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
3. Sophie Station Suites
This 4-star resort is based in West Fairbanks, conveniently close to its international airport. You’ll find a range of suites that all have a kitchen, lounge, and ensuite bathroom. For couples, the best room is the Jacuzzi suite which also has a private balcony for Northern Lights viewing. There’s even a wake-up service if Northern Lights are spotted in the middle of the night. Other arrangements can be organized from the 24-hour front desk, including excursions and free airport shuttles. For dining, the on-site Zach’s Restaurant serves classics like fried calamari, fish and chips, and pasta dishes.
- Guest Reviews: The suite was terrific, especially the living room and the kitchen. The views of the Northern Lights were awesome.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Jacuzzi suite
- Address: 1717 University Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
4. Candlewood Suites – Fairbanks
Candlewood Suites – Fairbank is located in the northern part of town. You can choose from 103 modern suites, but we would highly recommend the comfortable Queen Suite. It’s the biggest room available equipped with a kitchen, a large bathroom with a tub, and a separate lounge area. If you have pets, bring them along as well. While there are no restaurants onsite, you can cook your own barbecue outside while waiting for the northern lights. There’s also a gym onsite for active travelers. But if you just want to relax with your family, there are cards and board games available.
- Guest Reviews: The room was fantastic and so quiet. It was close to shops, restaurants, and a hot springs.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: One bedroom queen suite
- Address: 551 Harold Bentley Avenue, Fairbanks, 99701, United States
5. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks
Right in the heart of Fairbanks, SpringHill Suites is a 3-star hotel close to Chena River and Fairbank museums. Rooms are simple but have all the essentials for a comfortable stay. In the morning, they serve a buffet breakfast with fruits, eggs, bread, and even a waffle-making machine. The adjoining Lavelle’s Bistro is a superb eatery to go for a warming lunch or dinner. They have international classics like potstickers, risotto, and French onion soup on the menu. Other facilities onsite include a heated indoor pool, a hot whirlpool, and a 24-hour fitness facility. As a guest, you can benefit from free parking and a free airport shuttle to and from the hotel.
- Guest Reviews: Our suite was clean and spacious. Great breakfasts and the pool area was very nice.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: King suites
- Address: 575 1st Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
6. Northern Sky Lodge
To reach Northern Sky Lodge, you’ll have to drive nearly 50 kilometers from downtown Fairbanks, but it’s all worth it. This timber lodge is in a remote location, situated amidst grassland and forests. It provides guests with unspoiled views of the night skies. Head for the furnished observation deck when there’s solar activity at night. Inside the building, there are 6 simple yet rustic rooms fit for 2 to 4 guests. A large lounge, dining area, and shared kitchen are all available for guests. If you’re heading out into the snow, you can borrow winter gear such as thick jackets, boots, and snowshoes at no additional cost.
- Guest Reviews: It was a perfect experience. We had a wonderful view of the Northern Lights from the deck and glassed-in area.
- Star Rating: 2 stars
- Best Rooms: Upper level rooms
- Address: Milepost 329 Parks Highway, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
7. Wedgewood Resort
Wedgewood Resort is located at the edge of the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. Couples will like the luxurious King suites. While families can choose from 1 to 3-bedroom suites fitted with kitchens and separate living areas. Onsite, there’s a 24-hour reception and a 24-hour gym for guests. For Northern Lights viewing, you can arrange wake-up calls and even headlamps if you want to venture outside. This hotel has a restaurant and bar, where you can revel in delectable dishes, sharing platters, and Alaskan craft beers.
- Guest Reviews: Our suite was huge with a kitchen and a living room. It was the perfect spot to enjoy the Northern Lights.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: Deluxe three bedroom suites
- Address: 212 Wedgewood Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
8. Aurora Villa
Aurora Villa is a hypermodern property that lights up the night skies in Fairbanks’ winter scenery. Spacious living areas, designer furniture, and massive floor-to-ceiling windows make this one of the most luxurious stays in Fairbanks. You won’t have to get out of bed to see the Northern Lights at night. Couples will love the cozy Deluxe apartments. But if you’re traveling with a family, opt for a 3 bedroom apartment and you’ll have your own balcony. There’s also a full-size kitchen, dining table, and a seating area with a fireplace.
- Guest Reviews: The view from our room was simply amazing. We saw the Northern Lights on our first night.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: Three-bedroom apartment
- Address: 1110 John Kalinas Road, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States
9. Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks
The Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks is wedged between a shopping area and a waterfowl sanctuary in northern Fairbanks. Besides the great location, this resort has 101 delightful guest rooms and suites. The warm carpet tones, colorful artwork, and fashionable lampshades give it a homely vibe. Start the day at the sumptuous breakfast buffet line, where a spread of hot and cold items await. During the day, you’ll have access to the heated indoor pool, whirlpool, and gym. Or you can just chill in the lounge and use the WiFi. Essentially, this hotel gets all the small things right to make guests comfortable.
- Guest Reviews: Our room was spacious and quite comfortable. The breakfast was great and the pool was nice.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: King studio
- Address: 433 Harold Bentley Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States
10. Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge
As the name suggests, Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge sits close to the river. It’s also just a 6-minute drive from Fairbanks International Airport. Rooms are simple with bed configurations catering to up to 4 people. In certain rooms, pets are allowed, so you can bring your loyal four-legged friends on a winter trip as well. In the morning, there’s a free breakfast, consisting of fruits, eggs, yogurt, juice, cereals, and bread. When you’re ready to explore, the 24-hour front desk is open to help you with your travel requirements. Ask for a wake-up call in case the wondrous Northern Lights occur.
- Guest Reviews: The room was comfortable and had everything we needed. The breakfast was exceptional.
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Best Rooms: King rooms
- Address: 1255 TVSA Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States
Fairbanks Hotels Map
Also read:
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- 9 Best Luxury Iceland Camping Sites to See Northern Lights
- 17 Best Luxury Hotels in Reykjavik Iceland to see Northern Lights
- 23 Best Natural Wonders to See in Iceland
Find More Fairbanks Hotels to See Northern Lights
Best Fairbanks Rooms
| Fairbanks Hotels | Best Rooms |
| A Taste of Alaska Lodge | Superior quadruple room |
| Pike’s Waterfront Lodge | King rooms |
| Sophie Station Suites | Jacuzzi suite |
| Candlewood Suites – Fairbanks | One bedroom queen suite |
| SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks | King suites |
| Northern Sky Lodge | Upper level rooms |
| Wedgewood Resort | Deluxe three-bedroom suites |
| Aurora Villa | Three bedroom apartment |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks | King studio |
| Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge | King rooms |
