Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs: A Frozen Wonderland

Is the Aurora Ice Museum worth visiting? Absolutely! In this article, we’ll explore why this frozen wonderland at Chena Hot Springs is a must-see when you’re in Fairbanks. Chris and I have visited several times, and each visit leaves us amazed by the stunning ice sculptures and unique experiences. We’ll share everything you need to know—from the museum’s fascinating history to what you can expect during your tour.

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Aurora Ice Museum: Our Experiences

Chris and I always make it a point to visit the Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs during our trips to Fairbanks.

This frozen wonderland never fails to amaze us with its stunning ice sculptures and the magical atmosphere that truly captures the essence of Alaska. Whether it’s your first time in Fairbanks or a return visit, the Aurora Ice Museum is like a fairy-tale place to explore. It’s also one of the best places to stay in the Fairbanks area to see the Northern Lights.

When planning your Fairbanks itinerary, add the Aurora Ice Museum to your list. It perfectly complements other iconic Fairbanks museums, such as the Museum of the North, the Morris Thompson Cultural Center, and the Antique Auto Museum.

Each offers a distinct glimpse into Alaskan culture. Still, the Aurora Ice Museum provides something exceptional—a journey into a world where ice and art meet in a spectacular display.

Agnes’ Advice: If you’re visiting during aurora season, explore my complete Fairbanks travel guide for Northern Lights planning advice, tours, and winter itinerary ideas.

The World’s Largest Year-Round Ice Environment

The Aurora Ice Museum is not only a showcase of stunning ice sculptures but also a marvel of engineering and artistry. Built in 2005, it is the world’s largest year-round ice environment, making it a truly unique destination.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this Ice Museum is its ability to maintain a constant temperature of 25 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. This allows visitors to experience a winter wonderland no matter when they visit.

The museum is entirely constructed from ice, including the walls, sculptures, and chandeliers, designed to mimic the mesmerizing Northern Lights. This commitment to preserving the icy beauty of Alaska makes the Aurora Ice Museum a significant and unforgettable stop on your Fairbanks itinerary.

How To Get To Aurora Ice Museum?

Getting to the Aurora Ice Museum is easy and offers a few options. The museum is located at Chena Hot Springs Resort, about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks.

Driving from Fairbanks

If you’re renting a car, we highly recommend using Alaska Auto Rental, which is based in Fairbanks. The drive to Chena Hot Springs takes about 1.5 hours and has scenic views. The road is paved, so you don’t need a 4WD for this trip. On your way, you can stop by the Santa Claus House in North Pole, which makes for a fun addition to your trip.

Opening Hours and Entrance Fee

The Aurora Ice Museum is open year-round, but you can only explore it with a guided tour. Tours are offered daily at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m.

Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 6 to 17. Kids under 5 can join for free with a paying adult. If you plan to enjoy the Appletini cocktail at the Aurora Ice Bar, don’t forget to bring your ID. The cocktail costs an additional US$20 for an ice-carved martini glass.

Staying at the Resort or Campground

For the whole experience, consider staying overnight at Chena Hot Springs Resort. We’ve stayed at the resort and the campground several times, and it’s a perfect way to extend your visit. After exploring the museum, you can relax in the hot springs, making it a memorable trip. Moreover, it is one of the best places near Fairbanks to experience Northern Lights.

Remember that Northern Lights season in Fairbanks is from mid-August to mid-April, so the end of August or September is a great time to go.

Guided Tour from Fairbanks

Another option is to join a guided tour from Fairbanks. These tours typically include both the Chena Hot Springs and the Aurora Ice Museum. The price is affordable, allowing you to enjoy the experience without worrying about the drive. Plus, you can treat yourself to a delicious cocktail at the Aurora Ice Bar without the concern of driving back.

History and Creation of the Aurora Ice Museum

The Aurora Ice Museum opened in January 2005, bringing a unique vision to life. Steve and Heather Brice, both world-renowned ice sculptors, created it. They aimed to build a year-round ice environment showcasing Alaskan ice art’s beauty. The museum uses over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, all sourced from the Chena Hot Springs area.

The Vision Behind the Museum

Steve and Heather Brice wanted to create a place where visitors could enjoy ice art any time of year. They used the geothermal energy from Chena Hot Springs to power a special system. This system keeps the museum at a constant 25 degrees Fahrenheit, or about -3.9 degrees Celsius. Their vision was to blend traditional ice sculpting with modern technology to make something lasting.

Construction and Design

Building the museum was a huge effort. The Brices spent months planning and shaping the ice. They crafted everything with care, from the walls to the intricate sculptures. The museum’s ice chandeliers, inspired by the Northern Lights, are a highlight. They cast a colorful glow that adds to the magical atmosphere.

The Aurora Ice Museum continues to evolve. The sculptures are regularly updated to keep them looking fresh. The museum stands as a symbol of creativity and innovation, offering a unique glimpse into the world of ice art.

What to Expect During Your Visit At Aurora Ice Museum?

Visiting the Aurora Ice Museum is a unique and unforgettable experience. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be immersed in a world of ice and light.

Guided Tour Experience

Your visit begins with a guided tour, the only way to explore the museum. The tour lasts about 45 minutes and is led by a knowledgeable guide. They will explain the museum’s history, the creation of ice sculptures, and how the museum is maintained year-round. You’ll have time to ask questions and learn interesting facts about the art and design.

Stunning Ice Sculptures

As you walk through the museum, you’ll see a variety of intricate ice sculptures. These are regularly updated to keep them looking fresh and detailed. The sculptures range from life-sized figures to delicate flowers frozen in ice. Each piece is lit by colored lights, creating a magical glow that adds to the enchanting atmosphere.

The Aurora Ice Bar

One of the highlights of your visit is the Aurora Ice Bar, where you can enjoy a drink served in a glass made entirely of ice. The most popular choice is the Appletini, a chilled cocktail that perfectly complements the icy surroundings. Drinking at the ice bar is a unique experience you won’t want to miss.

Cold, But Comfortable

To preserve the ice, the museum is kept at a chilly 25 degrees Fahrenheit (about -3.9 degrees Celsius). You’ll be provided with a heavy parka to keep you warm during your visit. Even though it’s cold, the beauty of the ice and the artistry on display make it a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Wear long pants, long sleeves, a warm hoodie or jacket, a hat, and boots with good traction. Check out our detailed packing list for Alaska with a PDF checklist.

Pro Tip: Warm Up After the Tour

Chris and I have an excellent tip for you: first, enjoy the Aurora Ice Museum, and after the tour, soak in the geothermal hot springs. It’s a fantastic experience to warm up in the hot pool after exploring this frozen wonderland. The contrast between the museum’s cold and the springs’ warmth makes for an unforgettable day.

Expect to leave the Aurora Ice Museum with wonder and some incredible photos. It’s a place where art, nature, and innovation come together to create something extraordinary.

Final Thoughts: Is the Aurora Ice Museum Worth the Visit?

The Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs is a must-see when visiting Fairbanks. It offers a rare opportunity to experience ice’s beauty and artistry in a way unlike anything else. Every moment spent in this frozen wonderland is memorable, from the stunning ice sculptures to the unique experience of sipping a cocktail in an Aurora Ice Bar.

Adding the Aurora Ice Museum to your Fairbanks itinerary is a decision you won’t regret. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the combination of art, nature, and a touch of adventure makes this experience truly special. And don’t forget our tip: warm up in the geothermal hot springs after your tour. It’s the perfect way to cap off your visit and create lasting memories of your time in Alaska.

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