Ice Art by Day, Aurora by Night: A Fairbanks Winter Combo

Late winter in Fairbanks offers a near-perfect one-two punch: monumental ice sculptures after dark, and the Northern Lights once the sky goes black. Here's how to do both.

Ice art by day (and dusk)

Spend the late afternoon at the Ice Park, then stay as the sun drops — the sculptures are illuminated and at their best in the evening.

Aurora by night

After the park, head to a dark spot outside town — Cleary Summit, Murphy Dome, or Chena Hot Springs — and watch for the aurora. February and March are prime, with long dark nights.

One trip, two bucket-list experiences

Both are within easy reach of Fairbanks, so a single late-winter trip can deliver both. Dress for serious cold and give the aurora a few nights.

Plan with our World Ice Art guide and Aurora Season guide, and read the best aurora spots near Fairbanks.