Where to See The Northern Lights This Season

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Imagine standing beneath a star-filled sky as the Northern Lights dance above you, painting the night with waves of green, purple, and pink. The Aurora Borealis is one of the most awe-inspiring natural displays on Earth, and scientists predict the Solar Maximum in 2024-25 will result in the most frequent and impressive Northern Lights displays in more than a decade. The Northern Lights are most visible in high-latitude regions near the Arctic Circle, making destinations like Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Canada prime locations for viewing. Here’s some spots to stay during this bucket list experience.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finnish Lapland

This resort is famous for its glass igloos, offering unobstructed views of the Northern Lights from the warmth of your bed. Located Saariselka Fell region of Finnish Lapland, the resort provides a magical Arctic experience with cozy accommodations and easy access to winter activities like husky safaris and reindeer sledding.

ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The world-renowned ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, is rebuilt every winter from ice and snow. Guests can sleep in intricately carved ice rooms and enjoy the unique experience of watching the Northern Lights in a stunning, remote location. The hotel also offers various winter activities, making it an unforgettable Arctic adventure.

Aboard a Hurtigruten Cruise

Hurtigruten’s ships sail the Norwegian coast, above the Arctic Circle at 66°N, and directly beneath the Auroral Oval. The advantage of being at sea is the mobility you have, increasing your chances of seeing the aurora not just once but multiple times.

Pike’s Waterfront Lodge, Fairbanks, Alaska

Nestled along the banks of the Chena River, Pike’s Waterfront Lodge offers a blend of modern amenities and Alaskan charm. The lodge features cozy rooms and offers easy access to the heart of Fairbanks. You can view the auroras from the lodge’s outdoor viewing areas or in their heated observatory. The lodge also provides a Northern Lights wake-up call service, ensuring you won’t miss a chance to witness the auroras.

Inn on the Lake, Whitehorse, Canada

This boutique lodge on the shores of Marsh Lake offers a peaceful retreat with minimal light pollution for prime Northern Lights viewing. Guests can enjoy views from their rooms or the outdoor decks, with aurora wake-up calls available. The lodge also offers daytime activities like snowshoeing and ice fishing, combined with gourmet dining and cozy common areas.

Ready to plan your bucket list trip to see the Northern Lights?