Logan Voss
Citation: ©[Lightscape]/Unsplash
Looking to take a trip of a lifetime? For some, watching the Aurora Borealis is one of the top items on their bucket lists. The dancing colors and the stupefying display is possibly one of the most stunning sights in the world. Instead of going to a beach, connect with nature and see the Northern Lights in action—here is a list of 6 of the best places to watch the Northern Lights.
6 of the Best Awe-Inspiring Places to See the Northern Lights
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1. Iceland
Cities to Observe From: Reykjavík, Grótta, þingvellir National Park, Öskjuhlið
There are places all around Iceland for you to get a wonderful view of the Aurora Borealis. Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík, is one of the cheapest and most accessible places to watch the Northern Lights in action. There are multiple tours for you to hop on and they will lead you to the best places to see the lights. Not only that, but Iceland has tons of natural wonders like geysers, volcanoes, and more.
Where to Stay: The Northern Light Inn or the Aurora Bubble Hotel
2. Alaska
Cities to Observe From: Fairbanks, Nome, Iniakuk, Halibut Cove
Alaska provides a slew of options for you to take in the Northern Lights in the United States. Fairbanks is known as being one of the easiest places to see the natural phenomenon because of its open landscape and lack of air pollution. Take in the pristine lakes, rivers, and snowcapped mountains during the day and then take a nighttime trek to see and relax under the Northern Lights at night.
Where to Stay: Stillpoint Lodge or the Alyeska Resort
3. Canada
Cities to Observe From: Yellowknife, Muncho Lake Provincial Park, Whitehorse, Churchill
Northern Canada boasts vast expanses for you to see the Northern Lights; the province of the Yukon is where sightings are basically a given. Best thing is, most of that space has virtually zero light pollution. Nonetheless, there are plenty of other locations to view the lights if you don’t feel like going so far north.
Where to Stay: Northern Lights Resort & Spa or the Blachford Lake Lodge
4. Sweden
Cities to Observe From: Abisko, Luleå, Kiruna, Jukkasjärvi
One of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe, Sweden has a lot of open areas for your Northern Lights viewing pleasure. Sweden is also home to the famous Icehotel, which offers artist-designed rooms and wake-up calls for you to watch the spectacle. There are plenty of viewing options for you to watch the swirling lights in Sweden.
Where to Stay: Abisko Mountain Lodge or the Camp Ripan
5. Finland
Cities to Observe From: Lapland region, Rovaniemi, Kemi, Oulu
Finland is one of those absolutely gorgeous countries that you need to see during your lifetime. The stunning nature views and welcoming culture are a sure-fire way to get your spirits up—you’ll fall even more in love with nature. Another very sparsely populated city, there are numerous places for you to take in the lights—with little to no air pollution, Finland is definitely one of the best places to watch the Northern Lights.
Where to Stay: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or the Santa’s Hotel Aurora
6. Norway
Cities to Observe From: Tromsø, Lyngenfjord, Lofoten Islands, Svalbard
There are so many beautiful sights to see in Norway. From fjords and mountains to islands and colorful wooden houses, if you end up missing the lights one night, you’ll have plenty of other memories to take home. That said, seeing the Northern Lights is not a rare thing in Norway. The Aurora Borealis has definitely influenced the local heritage and culture. You won’t run out of sights to see in Norway!
Where to Stay: Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel or the Snowhotel Kirkenes
