Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs: Ice Museum & Hot Springs Day Trip

Summary

Chena Hot Springs day trip with ice sculptures soaking and wildlife

You’ll soak in natural hot springs beneath Alaskan sky, wander through glowing ice sculptures at the Aurora Ice Museum (maybe try an Appletini), and spot wildlife along forested roads from Fairbanks. With hotel pickup included and a local guide sharing stories along the way, this day trip leaves you warm long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway down that long stretch east from Fairbanks when our driver, Mike, slowed the van and pointed out a moose just off the road. I’d never seen one so close — its breath made little clouds in the cold air, and for a second nobody said anything. The windows started to fog up from us all leaning in. It’s funny, I came for the hot springs but that moment on the drive out stuck with me.

At Chena Hot Springs Resort, everything smelled faintly of wet stone and pine needles. Our guide Li handed out tickets for the Aurora Ice Museum first — she grinned when someone asked about the Appletini (apparently it’s a thing here, served in a glass made of ice). Inside, my fingers went numb just holding the cup but I tried it anyway. The sculptures glowed blue under the lights; there was this quiet echo when you walked past them, like being inside a frozen cathedral. I probably took too many photos but they never capture that cold-on-your-face feeling.

I changed into my swimsuit as fast as possible (the locker room is not heated like you’d hope) and nearly jogged to the outdoor pool. The water was so hot it almost stung at first, then my shoulders relaxed and I just floated there watching steam curl up into the sky. Some folks chatted quietly nearby; others just closed their eyes. I didn’t expect to feel so calm. Afterward, we wandered through some trails — didn’t see any foxes but did spot a beaver dam by one of the ponds.

Lunch was optional at the restaurant (I grabbed salmon chowder because when in Alaska…), and Li told us about how they grow their own greens year-round using geothermal energy. She offered a quick tour of their greenhouse; honestly, I only half-listened because my brain was still floating somewhere above those hot springs. On the way back to Fairbanks, everyone was quieter — tired in that good way you get after being outside all day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort

• Travel 60 miles east of Fairbanks
• Tour Aurora Ice Museum
• Try optional Appletini in ice glass
• Explore resort grounds and trails
• Optional lunch at resort restaurant
• Soak in natural hot springs
• Optional greenhouse and geothermal tour
• Return to Fairbanks, watch for wildlife

Top questions

How far is Chena Hot Springs from Fairbanks?

The resort is about 60 miles east of Fairbanks; transportation is included in your day trip.

Is admission to the Aurora Ice Museum included?

Yes, entry fees for both Chena Hot Springs and the Aurora Ice Museum are included.

Do I need to bring my own towel or swimsuit?

You’ll need your own swimsuit; towels can be rented on-site for $5 if you don’t bring one.

Are meals included on this tour?

No, meals are not included but you can purchase lunch at the on-site restaurant.

Can children use the outdoor hot springs pool?

Children under 18 and pregnant guests cannot use the outdoor rock pool but may use indoor pools.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Fairbanks are provided as part of your booking.

Is there an option to try an Appletini at the Ice Museum?

You can buy an Appletini served in an ice glass inside the museum if you’re over 21 with photo ID.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; minimal walking is required unless you choose to explore trails.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from your Fairbanks hotel with a local driver-guide, admission tickets to both Chena Hot Springs Resort and the Aurora Ice Museum, plus plenty of time to soak in mineral-rich waters or stroll scenic trails before heading back in comfort at sunset.