Fairbanks, Alaska, is an Aurora City boasting epic Aurora Borealis season that needs to be seen to be believed.
Witnessing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is a captivating adventure combining the auroras’ magic with the unique Alaskan backdrop. It’s an opportunity to marvel at one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays. All in a setting that enhances the experience, making it an unforgettable choice for travellers and nature enthusiasts alike.
People travel from all over the world to chase the spectacle of the aurora in the fairytale town of Fairbanks, Alaska. Spanning all four seasons and over nine months of the year, the Aurora Season runs from August 21 through April 21.
Fairbanks is a world-famous aurora-viewing city because of its location directly under the Auroral Oval. This is a ring-shaped region hovering over the far north where northern light activity is concentrated. Fairbanks’ distance from coastal weather and minimal light pollution (due to low population density) consistently contribute to clear, dark skies and optimum aurora viewing. Why go to Europe when North America is just on your doorstep?

Fairbanks is synonymous with the northern lights
In what other city can you find subdivisions, power plants, construction companies, veterinary clinics, publications, restaurants, street names, lodges, and tours all named for the aurora borealis? It’s not a coincidence that the Geophysical Institute, one of the world’s foremost aurora research centres, is located at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
No wonder the Poker Flats rocket range, where scientists launch rockets into active auroras to collect data, is just 27 miles north of the city’s centre. Just as it isn’t a surprise that the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reports current aurora forecasts on their front page. Or that the Explore Fairbanks website has a one-of-a-kind real-time Aurora Tracker.
The vibrant colours dancing across the night sky. With shades of green, pink, and purple, create an enchanting, awe-inspiring, and ethereal spectacle. The crisp Alaskan air and pristine landscapes enhance the experience. As the tranquillity of the Arctic wilderness hosts this celestial performance.
Ultimate accommodation in Alaska
Dwellings in the Fairbanks area have been built with the express purpose of aurora viewing. These include picturesque lodges and log cabins, remote yurts, and posh igloos. Many Fairbanks accommodations will give patrons a “wake-up” call when the aurora appears. Also, local entrepreneurs have crafted many exciting ways travellers can simultaneously see the lights and enjoy quintessentially Alaskan activities. In this charmed Aurora City, you can combine late-night dog mushing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, flight seeing and more with aurora viewing.
Witnessing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska, is an extraordinary experience combining natural wonder and a unique location. Renowned for being one of the best places on Earth to observe this mesmerising display.
Learn more about Aurora Season and plan a trip to Fairbanks, Alaska, now.
Read more
Save up to 25% on the ultimate Alaska adventure
The Scandinavian myths and legends behind the Northern Lights
Under the Northern Lights