Fairbanks: Electric Moose Studios Aurora Adventure W/Pizza!!

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights in the Alaskan winter, this tour from Fairbanks might just be what you’re looking for. It promises not only the chance to see the Aurora borealis but also the opportunity to learn how to photograph it with the help of a professional photographer. Plus, the promise of gourmet pizza and hot drinks in a heated shelter makes this a comforting, well-rounded experience.

Two things we particularly like about this tour: First, the expert guidance from Nathan, a seasoned photographer with years of experience who makes the science and art of Aurora photography accessible to all levels. Second, the heated shelter with delicious pizza—a rare luxury in such cold weather that keeps you warm and cozy while waiting for the lights to dance overhead.

A potential consideration? The success of the tour relies heavily on cloud cover and solar activity, meaning there’s no guarantee of seeing the Aurora. However, the Aurora Guarantee—a second tour free if the lights don’t appear on your first trip—adds confidence and great value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a small-group, personalized experience with a focus on photography, comfort, and local expertise. If you’re after a laid-back yet immersive Alaskan adventure with plenty of chances to learn and connect, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Professional guidance from a seasoned photographer enhances your chances of capturing stunning Aurora photos.
• The heated shelter with gourmet pizza and hot drinks makes waiting for the lights comfortable and fun.
• The tour’s Aurora Guarantee offers a second shot at viewing without extra cost.
• Small-group sizes ensure personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• You’ll visit multiple carefully selected viewing locations, sometimes driving 15-40 miles out of Fairbanks.
• The inclusion of timelapse videos and professional landscape portraits creates lasting memories.
• Dress warmly and bring your own camera and tripod for best results.
• The tour’s success depends on weather and atmospheric conditions, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Out: Pickup and Scenic Drive

The adventure begins with a pickup in a recognizable tan van, marked with Electric Moose Studios decals, making it easy to spot. The 1-hour drive out of Fairbanks offers a chance to relax and enjoy the Alaskan wilderness scenery. Our guide Nathan, with his 25 years of outdoor experience, points out interesting sights along the way — from moose sightings to snow-covered landscapes — setting an authentic tone from the start.

First Stop: Scenic and Strategic

We then stop at a scenic spot in the North Star area, a 30-minute drive from Fairbanks. This location is chosen for its minimal light pollution and good sky visibility, vital for Aurora viewing. The reviews consistently mention that the locations selected are “remote with no other tours,” offering a peaceful, private experience. That said, locations can vary based on cloud cover, which means each night might offer a different perspective.

Warm Up and Pizza in the Heated Shelter

One of the unique selling points of this tour is the heated shelter—which can reach up to 85°F despite outdoor temperatures dropping to -20°F. It’s a cozy refuge where everyone can relax, chat, and enjoy gourmet pizzas baked in a 930-degree stone oven. Reviewers rave about the quality and variety of the pizzas, with one mentioning that Nathan made five different kinds during their tour.

Along With pizza, there’s a selection of hot cocoa, coffee, cider, and chai tea, providing comfort and warmth as you wait for the sky to light up. The shelter is equipped with heaters, lighting, and space for photography, making it more than just a pit stop — it’s a core part of the experience.

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Aurora Photography & Professional Guidance

Nathan’s background as a wedding and portrait photographer really shines here. He offers hands-on instruction on how to photograph the Northern Lights — from camera settings to composition — which is invaluable for those new to night photography.

Participants receive professional landscape photos, portraits, and even timelapse videos of the Aurora, creating lasting mementos of the night. Several reviews mention how Nathan’s tips helped them get great shots, even if they initially felt unsure about their camera gear or settings.

Multiple Viewing Spots & Extended Waits

The tour includes driving to a few different viewing locations, some up to 40 miles from Fairbanks. This variety improves your chances of seeing the Aurora, especially if cloud coverage varies across sites. You might spend up to three hours at the main viewing spot, giving plenty of time to scan the sky and wait for the Aurora to emerge.

During this time, you can relax in the shelter, take photos, or simply marvel at the starry winter night. The timelapse video of the whole sky included in the package is a particularly fun souvenir, capturing the entire night’s sky in motion.

The Deal of the Aurora Guarantee

If the Aurora doesn’t make an appearance on your initial tour, you’re eligible for a second tour free within two years (subject to seat availability). This policy offers peace of mind and extra value, especially since Aurora viewing can be unpredictable. Many reviews highlight how guides are proactive in monitoring weather conditions, keeping guests optimistic and informed.

Return Journey

After several hours of Aurora hunting, the van returns to Fairbanks, typically around the six-hour mark. The timing and distance traveled depend on cloud coverage and Aurora activity, so flexibility is key.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This experience’s small group size (maximum 10 participants) creates an intimate atmosphere, ideal for those wanting personalized attention. Nathan’s extensive outdoor and photography experience assures you’re in capable hands, whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced photographer.

The heated shelter with gourmet pizza is a thoughtful touch, especially in Arctic winter conditions. It turns what could be an uncomfortable wait into a cozy, fun part of the adventure. Guests frequently mention the high-quality food and hot drinks as a highlight, adding a tasty, warming layer to the night.

Another major advantage is the professional photography included. Not all tours offer this, and having quality landscape shots, portraits, and timelapse videos of the Aurora elevates this tour from just another night of Aurora viewing to a curated, memorable experience.

The Practical Details

The tour lasts about six hours, starting with pickup in Fairbanks and returning in the evening. It involves a combination of driving, waiting, and active photography. Since the tour is dependent on weather and cloud cover, the exact locations and timing can vary, but the overall structure remains consistent.

Participants are advised to dress warmly in layers — temperatures can drop to -20°F — and to bring their own camera and tripod. The tour operates in cold weather, so preparedness is essential for comfort and success.

Booking is flexible; you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and “reserve now, pay later” options make planning easier. Small group sizes mean fewer crowds and more personalized guidance, which many reviewers appreciate.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for photographers of all levels eager to learn how to capture the Aurora, as well as travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized experience with expert guidance. If you enjoy small groups, personalized attention, and authentic local insights, this is a strong choice.

It’s also perfect if you prefer luxury touches like gourmet pizza and a heated shelter amid the cold Alaskan night. However, it’s important to remember that Aurora sightings are weather-dependent, so a flexible attitude is necessary.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a combination of stunning natural beauty, expert instruction, and an inviting atmosphere, this Aurora adventure from Electric Moose Studios hits the mark. The small-group setting ensures personalized guidance, while the heated shelter and gourmet pizza turn a potentially chilly waiting game into a cozy gathering. Nathan’s extensive photography experience and the included professional photos and videos add extra value for those eager to document their trip.

If you’re in Fairbanks during Aurora season and want a reliable, authentic experience with a high success rate and a backup plan, this tour is worth considering. It’s perfect for those who want to learn and photograph while staying warm and comfortable. Keep in mind the weather plays a big role, but with the Aurora Guarantee, you’ll have a second chance if the sky doesn’t cooperate the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring for this tour?
Bring warm clothing in layers, your own camera, and a tripod. The outdoor temperatures can reach -20°F, so dressing warmly is essential for comfort and safety.

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 6 hours, including pickup, driving, waiting, and returning to Fairbanks.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, Nathan provides guidance suitable for all levels, especially on how to photograph the Aurora with your own camera.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
The tour offers an Aurora Guarantee — if you don’t see the lights on your first trip, you can take a second tour free within two years, subject to availability.

Where do we go for viewing?
Locations are selected for their good sky visibility and minimal light pollution. The exact sites depend on weather conditions but typically involve driving 15-40 miles out of Fairbanks.

What is included in the package?
You get expert guidance, transportation, a heated shelter with hot drinks and gourmet pizza, professional landscape photos and portraits, plus a timelapse video of the night sky.

How do I know if I’ll see the Aurora?
While the tour maximizes your chances, Aurora sightings depend on solar activity and cloud conditions. The guide monitors sky cameras and weather forecasts to pick the best locations.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without paying upfront, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour from Electric Moose Studios offers a balanced mix of comfort, expertise, and chance, making it a compelling choice for anyone eager to see the Northern Lights with a bit of guidance and a lot of warmth.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby