This fall, many people across the country witnessed a rare sight: the Northern Lights, which streak the night sky even in urban areas like New York City.
However, there is good news for those who missed it. This is a very active time of year for the natural phenomenon known as the aurora borealis. In fact, aurora activity is predicted to peak in the winter of 2025, with even more frequent and intense light shows. Is there ever a better time to check seeing the Northern Lights off your bucket list?
If you want to take advantage of the exciting northern lights forecast this winter, there are plenty of options around the world, including cruise ships, glass domes, and luxury hotels in Canada, Scandinavia, Iceland, and more. Here are some amazing places to admire some of the world’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring natural sights.
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Grass Resort, Finland
Finnish Lapland is considered one of the most reliable places to see the Northern Lights, and when you stay at Grass Resort, you can even see them from the comfort of your bed.
The resort has 24 apartments with glass roofs and walls, making it easy to see Finland’s amazing night sky. Each apartment has its own hot spa and sauna, so you can easily warm up and relax after exploring the area’s natural beauty.
Blue Lagoon Retreat, Iceland
(Image source: Getty Images)
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is world-famous for both its vibrant colors and soothing effects, but that means it can get crowded. But crowds aren’t an issue at The Retreat, where you can swim in a “private lagoon fed by the same healing waters as the Blue Lagoon,” according to its website.
This luxury hotel boasts an underground spa, Michelin-starred restaurant and stunning views of Iceland, making it the perfect place to see the Northern Lights.
The Edge (Norway)
When you visit Tromsø, Norway, you literally feel like you’re on top of the world. It is the world’s northernmost city and located inside the Arctic Circle, making it the perfect place to see the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights are so prevalent that even though Tromsø is a busy urban area, you can see the Northern Lights hovering over the city streets at night many times throughout the year.
One of the best places to stay here is The Edge, a 4-star hotel located right on the water. Enjoy delicious cocktails at the rooftop bar while watching the Northern Lights swirl in the distance.
arctic bus, sweden
Have you ever heard of floating hotels? It’s truly a magical experience. At Sweden’s Arctic Bath Hotel, six cabins float on a platform above the Lule River, which freezes in winter. The innovative design will make you feel like you are in the heart of the winter Swedish landscape.
When you don’t have time to admire the Northern Lights, you can check out the hotel’s luxury spa, cool off in the outdoor river pool, go dog sledding, or dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant. Masu. It is a dream spot for winter vacation.
Northern Lights Resort and Spa, Canada
(Image source: Getty Images)
You don’t have to fly overseas to chase the Northern Lights. Traveling north to Canada, you’ll find several different scenic spots, including Northern Lights Resort and Spa in Yukon Territory.
There are a variety of cabins, all rated highly for their privacy and beauty, but the best option at the resort is the Aurora Glass Chalet. Thanks to the glass walls, you won’t miss the night light show (and even when you can’t see the Northern Lights, the view from the chalet is quite spectacular). The resort also offers a world-class spa and gourmet cuisine.
Chena Hot Springs Resort, Alaska
The best way to see the Northern Lights may actually be while soaking in hot water. At Chena Hot Springs Resort in Alaska, you can watch the northern lights while relaxing in the hotel’s natural hot springs. Achieve beauty and restoration all at once.
However, there are other options here as well. At the resort, you can also go to the top of Charlie Dome Mountain and spend time in one of the yurts waiting for the Northern Lights to appear. This will give you a 360 degree view of the display.
Aurora Promise, Hurtigruten
There’s no need to stay inland when chasing the Northern Lights. When you book a luxury cruise, you’ll be able to float along wintry oceans and rivers, admiring the rugged beauty of coastal landscapes by day and watching the Northern Lights sweep across the sky at night.
There are many cruise options for Northern Lights seekers, but one of the best may be the Northern Lights Promise from Hurtigruten. The ship will be sailing through Norwegian waters for 11 days, giving you plenty of opportunities to see the Northern Lights.
However, don’t be too disappointed if you can’t see the lights. In that case, Hurtigruten will give you a free cruise. Obviously, we are confident that we will be able to show you one of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world.
Tips for observing the aurora borealis
(Image source: Getty Images)
No matter where you’re traveling, or even if you’re at home, consider increasing your chances of spotting the Northern Lights by downloading an app that provides up-to-date information and forecasts for the Northern Lights.
For example, My Aurora Forecasts and Alerts is free and highly rated on both the Google Play Store and App Store. Get forecasts for the next hour, hours, or even weeks ahead so you can plan your Northern Lights viewing (subject to weather conditions, of course).
If the lights don’t come on, you can use the app to watch live aurora webcams from around the world for free.
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