Tucked away in the heart of Fairbanks, the Full Day Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs Tour offers a captivating journey through Alaska’s natural wonders. This comprehensive excursion immerses visitors in the region’s remarkable geothermal energy, showcasing the renowned ice sculptures that have made the Ice Museum a must-see destination. From guided tours to relaxation in the soothing hot springs, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that tantalizes the senses and leaves travelers eager to uncover more of Fairbanks’ enchanting secrets.
Key Points
- Comprehensive tour exploring Fairbanks’ natural wonders, including the Ice Museum and Chena Geothermal Energy facility.
- Opportunity to relax in the Chena Hot Springs and indulge in local Alaskan cuisine.
- Convenient hotel transfers provided, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
- Tour not suitable for pregnant women and minors, with certain activities posing risks.
- Tour priced at $17,539 per person and likely to sell out, so early booking is recommended.
Tour Overview
The full-day Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs Tour takes visitors on an engaging exploration of Fairbanks’ natural wonders, showcasing the region’s captivating geothermal energy and renowned ice art displays.
This tour is a popular choice, and it’s no wonder – it includes hotel transfers, entrance fees, guided tours, and ample time to relax in the soothing Chena Hot Springs.
Guests will marvel at the intricate ice sculptures at the year-round Ice Museum, learn about the Chena Geothermal Energy facility, and indulge in local cuisine at their own expense.
With a duration of 7 hours, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience, making it a must-do for visitors to Fairbanks.
Inclusions and Highlights
This tour includes a hotel transfer in Fairbanks, admission to the Ice Museum and its pool, and guided tours of both the Ice Museum and the Chena Geothermal Energy facility.
Visitors can look forward to several hours of relaxation in the soothing waters of the Chena Hot Springs. The highlights of this experience include:
- Unwinding in the calming waters of Chena Hot Springs
- Learning about geothermal energy during the guided tour
- Exploring the year-round Ice Museum with its intricate ice sculptures
Guests can also indulge in local cuisine at the Chena Hot Springs restaurant, though this is at their own expense.
With its immersive activities and natural wonders, this tour promises an unforgettable day of discovery and rejuvenation.
Restrictions and Age Limits
Pregnant women are not permitted to partake in this tour, and only those aged 18 and above can soak in the outdoor rock lake pool at Chena Hot Springs. This is due to the nature of the activities and the potential risks involved. The tour involves various elements, including geothermal energy exploration and swimming in the hot springs, which may not be suitable for pregnant individuals or minors. To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, these restrictions are in place.
| Restrictions | Age Limits |
|---|---|
| Not suitable for pregnant women | Minimum age of 18 for hot springs access |
| Certain activities may pose risks | Minors are not permitted in the outdoor pool |
What to Bring
Visitors should pack a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel for their day at the Chena Hot Springs. These essential items will ensure participants can fully enjoy the relaxing soak in the outdoor rock lake pool.
Plus, guests may want to bring extra layers, as the temperature can be cooler at the geothermal facility.
While exploring the year-round Ice Museum, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Other useful items may include:
- A camera to capture the stunning ice sculptures and natural landscapes
- Sunscreen and lip balm to protect against the elements
- Snacks or water to stay energized throughout the day’s activities
Following this simple packing list will help ensure a comfortable and memorable Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs adventure.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour provides pick-up and drop-off services in Fairbanks, making it convenient for participants to enjoy the day’s activities without the hassle of transportation. Guests are picked up from their Fairbanks accommodations and transported to the Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs, and then returned to their starting point at the end of the tour. This allows visitors to fully enjoy the experience without the need to worry about navigation or parking. The tour’s reliable transportation ensures a seamless start and finish to the day, allowing guests to focus on creating lasting memories.
| Pick-up | Drop-off |
|---|---|
| Fairbanks accommodations | Fairbanks accommodations |
| Convenient for guests | Hassle-free travel |
| No need to drive | Relax and enjoy the tour |
| Included in tour package | Completes the experience |
Tour Duration
Throughout the day, the Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs Tour spans a duration of 7 hours, allowing ample time for participants to fully enjoy the captivating experiences.
During this comprehensive tour, guests will:
- Marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and displays within the year-round Ice Museum.
- Set out on a guided tour of the Chena Geothermal Energy facility, learning about the science behind this renewable power source.
- Indulge in the soothing, mineral-rich waters of the Chena Hot Springs, as they unwind and soak up the serene ambiance.
With the opportunity to explore both the frozen wonders of the Ice Museum and the natural thermal springs, this full-day excursion offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, education, and relaxation.
Local Cuisine
After exploring the Ice Museum and Chena Geothermal Energy facility, guests can sample the local culinary offerings at the Chena Hot Springs resort’s on-site restaurant. The menu features an array of dishes highlighting the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients, allowing visitors to savor the authentic flavors of the Alaskan wilderness. From hearty caribou stew to delectable wild berry desserts, the restaurant showcases the best of Alaskan cuisine. Guests can also indulge in locally-sourced seafood, such as smoked salmon and halibut. To complement the savory dishes, the restaurant offers a selection of Alaskan-brewed beers and wines, creating a truly immersive dining experience.
| Menu Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Caribou Stew | Tender chunks of caribou simmered with root vegetables and herbs |
| Wild Berry Cheesecake | Creamy cheesecake with a vibrant berry compote topping |
| Grilled Halibut | Fresh, flaky halibut fillet grilled to perfection |
Booking and Availability
Prospective travelers can check the availability of the Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs Tour online, with the option to reserve their spot and pay later.
The tour is popular and likely to sell out, so guests are encouraged to book in advance to secure their preferred date.
The tour is priced at £17,539 per person and includes various inclusions, such as hotel transfers, entrance fees, and guided tours of the Ice Museum and Chena Geothermal Energy facility.
The tour offers several highlights, including:
- Relaxing in the calming waters of Chena Hot Springs
- Learning about Geothermal Energy during the guided tour
- Visiting the year-round Ice Museum
Booking early ensures travelers don’t miss out on this unique Alaskan experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?
Guests can generally leave the tour group at any time, though doing so is not recommended. Leaving the group may result in missing key aspects of the tour or being unable to rejoin later. It’s best to stay with the group for the full experience.
Is There an Option to Visit the Ice Museum Separately?
The tour package does not provide an option to visit the Ice Museum separately. However, visitors can choose to explore the Ice Museum on their own before or after the guided tour if they wish to spend more time there.
Are the Hot Springs Suitable for Those With Disabilities?
The Chena Hot Springs have accommodations for visitors with disabilities, including an accessible pool and parking. However, the outdoor rock lake pool may not be suitable for all. Visitors should inquire about accessibility details prior to booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages to the Hot Springs?
Guests may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to the Chena Hot Springs. However, there’s a restaurant on-site that offers a variety of local cuisine for those who prefer not to pack their own meals.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
The tour provider offers group discounts for the Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs Tour, though the specifics may vary. Customers should inquire about group pricing when booking to see if they qualify for any savings.
Recap
The Full Day Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in Fairbanks’ natural wonders.
From the captivating ice art displays to the soothing Chena Hot Springs, this comprehensive tour delivers an unforgettable experience.
With hotel transfers, guided tours, and the chance to savor local Alaskan cuisine, it’s no wonder this tour is a popular choice among visitors seeking a well-rounded exploration of the region’s unique attractions.
