Chena Hot Springs Resort

"Since the drive is 1.5 - 2 hours each way, it really is worth staying one night (or more) to get the full experience of everything they have to offer. Pool and lake access are free to guests staying at the resort along with free towel service.  Guests have access to the pools the day of check out.  Confirm with the resort for cut off time.  There are different options on where to stay at the resort.  Note that the cabins and rooms are pretty rustic and bare bones.  I stayed in the Fox Rooms which was a short walk to both the pool house and main lodge for food.  In the summer, for the more adventurous (or budget) traveler, there are yurts as well as camping spots available. These do not include pool access or amenities.  There also is no internet in the cabins or lodges. You can only access wifi at the activities center, main resort lodge (check-in, restaurant & gift shop), and pool house.  There are limited food options at the resort.  There is a cafe in the activity center and a bar/restaurant in the main lodge.  Be prepared that during peak hours you may need to wait for a table.  Both meals at the lodge (dinner and breakfast) were very good.  Note: Stays here are not cheap.  The typical price is $250-300 per night for a room. You’re paying for the experience of the resort (beautiful setting, hot springs, northern lights viewing).  If you are an Alaska resident, or in the military you can get significant discounts on your room rate."

"Here you can enjoy the hot springs, visit the ice museum, and do all the winter activities: cross country skiing, snow shoeing, dog sledding, ice fishing, etc. The rooms are basic and a bit on the older side. The food is also basic with large portion sizes."

"From the general region of Fairbanks this is a 1 hour and 14 minutes' drive . "