Aurora Viewing and Dinner

Aurora Viewing and Dinner Tour Review

When it comes to witnessing the spectacular dance of the Aurora Borealis, few experiences match the magic of a dedicated evening in Fairbanks. This Aurora Viewing and Dinner tour offered by Basecamp Adventures promises a blend of good food, intriguing science talks, and the chance to see the northern lights in a relaxed, self-guided setting. While we haven’t done this experience ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Arctic adventure.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility—self-driving means you get to set your own pace, the dinner at Latitude 65 offers a cozy, gourmet meal, and the free aurora presentation enriches the whole experience with fascinating facts and folklore. Plus, the option for professional photography sessions gives you a chance to capture those once-in-a-lifetime shots. One thing to consider is that this tour relies heavily on clear weather—if the skies stay cloudy, the Northern Lights might stay hidden, but the team is known for offering full refunds or alternative dates in such cases.

This experience seems ideal for independent travelers, food lovers, and aurora enthusiasts eager for a personalized and relaxed evening. It’s less suited for those looking for a guided bus tour or a group experience with a set schedule.

Good To Know

• Self-drive flexibility allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Gourmet 3-course dinner includes options for vegetarians and vegans, with potential upcharges.
• Educational presentation enhances your understanding of the Aurora Borealis.
• Optional photography sessions provide professional shots for $60 per person.
• Relaxed lounge environment with free Wi-Fi for waiting and socializing.
• Weather-dependent experience—good weather enhances the chance of seeing the lights.

How the Tour Works

The Aurora Viewing and Dinner experience kicks off at 8:00 pm with your reservation at Latitude 65, a fine dining restaurant in Fairbanks. As a self-drive activity, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at 2640 Himalaya Rd. This setup works well for those who prefer the freedom of exploring on their own or are already staying nearby.

The dinner menu features a three-course meal—soup or salad, a choice between steak or chicken, and dessert. For those with special diets, vegan or vegetarian options are available, but they may include an upcharge depending on ingredient availability. Alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price but can be purchased separately for those 21 and older during dinner.

After dinner, guests are encouraged to relax in the lounge space, which offers comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi—perfect for sharing photos or just unwinding. At 10 pm, the staff hosts a free presentation exploring the science behind the aurora and some of the folklore, adding an educational layer to the evening.

Once the Northern Lights make an appearance—usually after 10 pm—the staff will guide guests on where to look. If you’re interested in capturing the moment, a professional photography session is available for $60 per person, which many find worthwhile for their special photos.

The yurt and lounge close at 2:00 am, so plan to wrap up your night by then.

What to Expect During Your Evening

Arriving at the meeting point around 8:00 pm, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and led to your table at Latitude 65. The dinner experience is designed to be relaxed and intimate, with the option to chat, enjoy your meal, or sip on beverages (sold separately). If you’re a foodie, you’ll appreciate the quality of the cuisine, which balances hearty Arctic flavors with fine dining touches.

After dinner, many travelers spend time in the lounge, where they can connect via Wi-Fi or just soak in the quiet Arctic night outside. The presentation at 10 pm provides a fascinating overview of why the northern lights happen, blending science with local legends for a well-rounded educational experience.

Once the aurora appears—a faint glow or a vibrant curtain depending on the night—the staff will point you in the right direction. Guests with an interest in photography can opt for a dedicated session to get stunning, professional-quality images of the lights.

The self-driving feature means you can leave at your own pace, whether that’s staying outside for extended viewing or heading back indoors early. Keep in mind, the yurt closes at 2 am, so plan accordingly.

The Value of This Experience

At $120 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded evening combining fine dining, education, and aurora viewing. Compared to guided bus tours, the self-drive element gives you more freedom and flexibility, which many travelers appreciate. The inclusion of a 3-course meal at a reputable restaurant adds value, especially when considering the cost of similar aurora trips that may only include transport or basic accommodations.

The additional photography session is an extra cost but can be a worthwhile investment for capturing those memorable moments. If you’re someone who prefers a less structured, more autonomous experience, this likely suits you well. However, keep in mind that success depends heavily on weather conditions, so check the forecast and be prepared for a waiting game. The staff’s full refund policy in case of poor weather provides some peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to independent travelers comfortable with self-driving, or those staying nearby in Fairbanks who want a relaxed evening with quality food and educational content. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy a bit of flexibility and cultural enrichment.

If your main goal is to see the aurora with minimal fuss, this tour offers a cozy, personalized atmosphere rather than a crowded bus ride. However, if you’re after a full guided tour with transportation included, other excursions might suit you better.

FAQs

Do I need to drive myself?
Yes, this is a self-drive activity, so you need your own transportation to the meeting point.

What time does dinner start?
Dinner reservations begin at 8:00 pm at Latitude 65.

Is alcohol included?
No, alcohol is not included but can be purchased separately during dinner, and only for guests 21+.

What is included in the price?
A 3-course meal with soup or salad, main course (steak or chicken), and dessert, plus the aurora presentation.

Can I request vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, but availability depends on ingredients, and there may be an upcharge for special diets.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

When does the experience end?
The yurt and lounge close at 2:00 am, so plan to leave by that time.

How close will I get to see the Aurora?
Staff will guide you once the lights appear, but visibility depends on atmospheric conditions.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children 17 and under need to be accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly.

Can I take photos?
Yes, photography sessions are available for $60 per person, offering professional-quality shots.

Final Thoughts

This Aurora Viewing and Dinner tour offers a relaxing, flexible way to experience the northern lights without the rush of guided bus tours. The combination of a delicious meal, engaging science talk, and the chance to see the aurora flickering across the sky makes it a memorable Arctic evening. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a touch of independence, good food, and a cozy atmosphere, all topped with the potential for incredible photos.

While weather remains a wildcard, the option for full refunds or alternative dates ensures you won’t be left empty-handed if the skies stay stubbornly cloudy. Think of this tour as an occasion to combine culinary delight, learning, and nature’s most dazzling light show in one thoughtfully curated evening.

Whether you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or a first-timer eager for a relaxed experience, this tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, education, and natural wonder—making it a lovely addition to your Fairbanks winter itinerary.