Cleary Summit Aurora Glass House Luxury Northern Lights Tour

Traveling to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska, is a bucket-list adventure for many. While there are numerous options for aurora viewing, this new Aurora Glass House experience offers a unique twist: a cozy, modern setting with a panoramic view of the sky. This review takes a close look at what travelers can expect from this tour, highlighting the benefits—and some considerations—so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the state-of-the-art glass house with expansive windows that promise uninterrupted views, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off that makes the whole evening hassle-free. A potential drawback is that, depending on weather conditions, your luck with seeing the aurora might vary—you’re at the mercy of nature, after all. Still, the comfort and thoughtful amenities make this tour a strong contender for those who want to enjoy the Northern Lights in style. It’s especially well-suited for couples, families, and photography enthusiasts eager for that perfect shot.

Key Points

• New for 2025: The Aurora Glass House on Cleary Summit offers an innovative, comfortable way to view the Northern Lights.
• Panoramic Views: Floor-to-ceiling windows provide over 270° of sky, maximizing your chances of witnessing the aurora dance overhead.
• Comfort & Warmth: Cozy seating, hot drinks, and a warm environment ensure you’re comfortable even in cold weather.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Hotel pickup, drop-off, snacks, coffee, tea, and hot water are included, making for a relaxed evening.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 30 travelers helps keep the experience intimate and personal.
• Cost-Effective: At $149 per person, this offers good value, especially considering the premium setting and amenities.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting Out: Hotel Pickup and Introduction

The tour begins around 9:30 pm with hotel pickup in Fairbanks. This is a big plus for travelers unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer to avoid cold, late-night drives. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is considerate given the often chilly Alaskan evenings, and the guide takes a moment to confirm your booking details. This personalized start sets a friendly tone for the evening.

The Journey to Cleary Summit

The drive up to Cleary Summit takes roughly 30 minutes. Although the itinerary doesn’t specify exact driving conditions, expect a comfortable ride with scenic views of the Alaskan wilderness. This short trip minimizes travel fatigue, allowing you to focus more on the anticipation of seeing the aurora.

The Aurora Glass House: A Modern Marvel

Once at the summit, you’ll step into the brand-new Aurora Glass House, designed specifically for aurora viewing. Its large floor-to-ceiling windows span over 270°, giving you an almost panoramic sky view—ideal for catching the aurora’s shimmering curtains. We loved the way the interior feels both modern and welcoming, with plush lounge chairs that invite you to relax and soak in the scene.

The interior’s design emphasizes comfort, with cozy seating and a selection of hot drinks—coffee, tea, hot water, and snacks—to keep you warm and energized. The environment is quiet, enabling the natural sounds of the wilderness to complement the visual spectacle outside. The experience is tailored to be as stress-free as possible, letting you focus solely on the sky.

Aurora Viewing and Photography

The tour includes an aurora photography service, which is a thoughtful addition. Many travelers want to capture the Northern Lights but lack the right equipment or technique. Guides often share tips or even help take photos, ensuring you leave with memorable images. As one review notes, “You will love the views and the relaxed atmosphere,” emphasizing that this is a comfortable, no-pressure environment for all skill levels.

The Return Trip

After a few hours of watching the skies, your guide will escort you back to your Fairbanks hotel, roughly 30 minutes away. The return journey provides an opportunity to reflect on the experience, with the comfort of air conditioning and a relaxed atmosphere after the awe-inspiring display.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The Aurora Glass House is a significant upgrade from traditional outdoor viewing, offering a warm, comfortable space where you can settle in without battling the cold for hours. The panoramic windows are particularly valuable because they maximize your chances of spotting the aurora, even if it’s faint or shifting.

The inclusion of hot drinks and snacks enhances the experience, especially in cold weather, and the group size cap of 30 helps maintain an intimate, less crowded environment—ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

While the tour is new and has not accumulated reviews yet, the description and features imply a high level of comfort and convenience. The fact that the tour is booked an average of 117 days in advance suggests strong interest and anticipation among travelers.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $149 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable experience at a reasonable price. In comparison to other aurora tours, which might just include a drive or outdoor waiting, this experience’s added amenities—like the cozy glass house, hot drinks, and photography service—add significant value. For travelers who want a hassle-free, high-quality experience with good chances of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s a strong investment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who prefer comfort over rugged outdoor waiting. It appeals to families, couples, and photographers eager to capture the aurora without the chill and discomfort of traditional outdoor viewing. It’s also well-suited for travelers with limited time, as the entire experience is under five hours, including transportation. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and intimate aurora experience, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

The Cleary Summit Aurora Glass House provides a modern, cozy way to witness the Northern Lights in Fairbanks. Its panoramic windows, warm interior, and included amenities make it especially attractive for those who value comfort and convenience. While weather conditions are always a factor, the experience’s thoughtful design maximizes your chances of enjoying the aurora without sacrificing comfort.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a stress-free, memorable night watching nature’s most spectacular light show in a setting that’s both stylish and practical. It offers good value for the price, especially if you’re looking for an experience that combines stunning views with a relaxed atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within the Fairbanks city area, making logistics easy and convenient.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, with about three hours spent at the Aurora Glass House.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes snacks, coffee, tea, and hot water, helping you stay warm and energized during the viewing.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour has a maximum group size of 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
While the tour provides hot drinks and comfortable seating, bring warm clothing, especially layers, hats, and gloves, to stay cozy in the winter night.

Travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, and well-organized Northern Lights experience in Fairbanks will find this tour a solid option. Its combination of modern comforts, panoramic views, and small-group atmosphere make it a memorable way to see one of nature’s most dazzling displays.