Just got back from a quick trip up to the Golden Heart City–where everyone’s in the hunt to see the northern lights. On arrival at Pike’s, lots of folks were in the lobby with their extra layers on. It was -5ºF outside–and they were ready to go.
Pike’s is airport-close and there’s a free shuttle. Owner Jay Ramras and GM Elizabeth Griswold are working on lots of improvements to make the hotel a year-round destination.
On a good night, you can look out over the Chena River and see the aurora borealis over the hills on the northern horizon. But you’ll have better luck seeing the lightswith a driver who can take you to a darker spot. Check out Aaron Lojewski’s company, Fairbanks Aurora Tours. Or, go on a longer adventure with Northern Alaska Tour Company up to Coldfoot and Wiseman.
AURORA SEEKERS: In the winter, Pike’s is built for folks looking for northern lights. The “Aurora Seekers” package includes breakfast, access to the unique “Aurora Conservatory”, the “Aurora Discovery Institute” and an evening fire out by the river. Also, duck into the heated theater to see “Aurora Hunter”, a locally-made film featuring the northern lights.
AVIATION ENTHUSIASTS: Check out the new aviation-themed rooms, featuring up-cycled airline seats as part of the desk set-up. Plus, the views out the window line up nicely with the runway from the airport. There are pictures and stories of Alaska aviation pioneers like Noel Wien and Cliff Everts.
REINDEER GAMES: If you love reindeer, this summer Pike’s will feature several rooms adjacent to a new reindeer range by the river. Learn about reindeer in Alaska and get up close to the critters. Pike’s staff would neither confirm nor deny that these are Santa’s very own reindeer.
RIVERFRONT CABINS: Pike’s has a collection of 28 riverfront cabins for a more secluded stay. In the middle of the cabin complex is a year-round bocce ball court. Yes, there’s a story here, featuring one of Fairbanks’s early notorious residents.
PRIVATE CAR to get around town. You can rent a car on-site, of get Pike’s drivers to take you around town: downtown, grocery store, Museum of the North, Santa Claus House or Antique Car Museum. It’s a tricked-out SUV with leather seats, so you’ll ride in style.
MEET ME AT PIKE’S LANDING. The restaurant is a local favorite for lunch and dinner. The breakfast buffet is served in the hotel lobby (it’s free for hotel guests). Pike’s Landing is literally across the parking lot. I usually get one of their delicious cheeseburgers for lunch. But last night I snuck over for a slice of peanut butter pie. #TrueCofessions
LEARN A LOT about Alaska on your next visit to Fairbanks. There’s a 1,000-book library of Alaska books, plus many tales on display of the folks who built Fairbanks in the early 1900s. The art collection in the hotel is VERY Alaskan. Don’t forget the steam room. Or the ice cream in the lobby.
CLICK THROUGH and make your reservations….and your own aurora memories… today. Or, call (877)774-2400 for reservations.
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