Cleary Summit Aurora Glass House Luxury Northern Lights Tour

This newly introduced tour in 2025 offers a unique way to witness the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska, without sacrificing comfort. Instead of braving the cold outdoors, you’ll settle into a modern, glass-walled cabin perched on Cleary Summit, with panoramic views that make it feel as if the sky is unfolding right in front of you. This experience combines the thrill of Aurora viewing with the luxury of a cozy, well-designed space — a true highlight for those who want a more relaxed, scenic encounter with the northern lights.

What we love about this tour: First, the floor-to-ceiling windows providing over 270° of panoramic sky views make it hard to miss a moment of the aurora’s dance. Second, the comfy lounge chairs and hot drinks turn what can be a chilly spectacle into a warm, inviting atmosphere. On the downside, the price of $149 per person might seem steep for some, especially if you’re used to more budget-friendly options, but the comfort and exclusivity may well justify it. This tour suits couples seeking romance, families wanting a memorable outing, or photographers eager to capture stunning aurora shots from a prime vantage point.

Key Points

• Prime Location: Situated atop Cleary Summit with panoramic views, offering a perfect setting for aurora viewing.
• Comfort & Convenience: Plush seating and hot drinks keep you warm and comfortable during the show.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, hot drinks, and an aurora photography service are included.
• Limited Group Size: Max of 30 travelers, ensuring a more personal and less crowded experience.
• Booking & Timing: Most travelers book 117 days in advance; the tour starts at 9:30 pm and lasts about 4-5 hours.
• Potential Drawback: Price might seem high but accounts for exclusivity, comfort, and the premium viewing environment.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Pickup and Journey to Cleary Summit

We appreciate how straightforward this experience begins with hotel pickup within Fairbanks. This door-to-door service removes the hassle of organizing transportation late at night, which is especially valuable in cold weather. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride, and it’s a good chance to chat with your guide or fellow travelers before the main event.

The drive itself is about 30 minutes, giving you a relaxed lead-up to the highlight. Depending on the group size, you might share the vehicle with a handful of others, but the cap at 30 travelers helps keep it intimate.

The Aurora Glass House: A Modern Marvel

Once atop Cleary Summit, you’ll find the brand-new Aurora Glass House—a sleek, contemporary cabin designed specifically for aurora viewing. The large, floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the space, offering over 270° of panoramic sky views. We loved the way this design maximizes your chances of catching the Northern Lights from almost any seat inside.

The interior is cozy and inviting, with plush lounge chairs that make it easy to sit back and relax. During the tour, your host or guide will share stories about the aurora and Alaska’s winter skies, adding an educational touch to the experience. Many reviews praise the welcoming atmosphere, noting that it feels more like visiting a friend’s stylish mountain cabin than a typical tour bus.

Hot Drinks and Snacks to Keep Warm

Northern Lights are unpredictable—they dance across the sky unpredictably, sometimes for just minutes. That’s why the complimentary hot drinks—coffee, tea, hot water—are such a thoughtful inclusion. They help keep your hands warm and your spirits high, especially when the sky remains dark for an extended period.

Snacks are also provided, meaning you won’t go hungry during the viewing session. This is particularly appreciated on a tour that lasts several hours and occurs late into the night.

Aurora Photography Service

For those eager to capture the moment, the tour includes an aurora photography service. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned shutterbug, having a guide assist with camera settings or take photos for you enhances the experience. As one reviewer noted, “They helped me get a shot I never could have taken on my own,” emphasizing the value of this feature.

The Return Trip

After the aurora has danced its dance, the journey back to Fairbanks is equally smooth. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel, ending an evening that was both comfortable and memorable. The 30-minute return drive allows you to unwind and perhaps review your photos or share the experience with fellow travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

An Exclusive Setting with Unmatched Views

Being situated on the summit atop Cleary ensures minimal light pollution and an unobstructed view of the sky. This elevated position means you’re more likely to see the aurora in all its glory, away from the city lights that can hinder visibility elsewhere.

A Cozy, Modern Cabin Designed for Comfort

The Aurora Glass House’s floor-to-ceiling windows not only look stunning but also protect you from the cold, wind, and snow. You stay warm in plush chairs, sip hot drinks, and focus on the sky—no need to bundle up in layers or brave the outdoors for long periods.

Flexible and Thoughtful Amenities

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, hot drinks, and an aurora photography service provides excellent value for $149. It turns what might be an ordinary outdoor tour into a holistic, comfort-focused experience.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $149 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it offers a high level of comfort, convenience, and exclusivity. For travelers seeking a stress-free, luxurious way to see the Northern Lights, this experience justifies the cost. The all-inclusive nature means fewer worries about logistics, and the panoramic glass cabin maximizes your chances of seeing the aurora without the distraction of cold or wind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits couples, families, or photographers who prefer a relaxed setting over outdoor cold-weather chasing. It’s perfect if you’re willing to pay a premium for comfort, stunning views, and a chance to learn from guides who can enhance your photography.

Final Thoughts

The Cleary Summit Aurora Glass House tour offers a refreshing take on aurora viewing—combining sleek modern design with practical comfort. The panoramic windows, hot drinks, and guided photography make it ideal for those who want a stress-free night of Northern Lights without sacrificing quality or style.

While the price may be a consideration for budget travelers, the experience’s level of comfort and the chance to witness the aurora from a sophisticated setting make it a worthwhile investment for many. It provides a memorable, authentic experience in Fairbanks, especially suited for those who value a cozy, scenic environment over more rustic outdoor options.

Who is this tour best for?

It’s perfect for those who want a guaranteed, comfortable viewing experience with excellent photo opportunities. If you’re traveling with loved ones who prefer not to endure harsh weather but still want to see the lights, this is an excellent choice. Photographers and romantics alike will find this experience a highlight of their Alaska trip.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within the Fairbanks city area, making it easy and convenient to start and end the evening.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 to 5 hours, starting at 9:30 pm with pickup, aurora viewing, and return.

What should I wear?
While the cabin keeps you warm, it’s still advisable to wear warm clothing, layers, and good boots since you might step outside briefly to view the sky or take photos.

Can anyone join?
Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 30, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, hot drinks such as coffee, tea, and hot water are provided along with snacks, enhancing your comfort during the wait.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

This tour stands out for its blend of modern comfort, panoramic views, and thoughtful amenities, offering a distinct and memorable way to experience the Northern Lights in Fairbanks. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned aurora chaser, it promises a cozy, scenic night under Alaska’s magical skies.