Find the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights

Plan your northern lights trip with expert travel advice, real-time aurora forecasts and destination guides. Whether you’re chasing the aurora borealis across Scandinavia, Iceland or the Canadian wilderness, we’ll help you find the best time and place to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

Canada

Dark skies and breathtaking wilderness, one of the best places to experience the northern lights in all their glory.

Banff •Churchill •Edmonton •Jasper •Whitehorse •Yellowknife

Faroe Islands

Dramatic landscapes with pristine dark skies, an exceptional place to witness the northern lights with a truly unique setting.

Tórshavn

Finland

Enjoy stunning aurora displays from cozy glass igloos or snowy forests in the magical northern wilderness.

Inari •Levi •Luosto •Rovaniemi

Greenland

The remote wilderness and minimal light pollution offer a breathtaking, serene setting to witness the northern lights in their purest form.

Ilulissat •Kangerlussuaq •Nuuk •Qaqortoq

Iceland

Breathtaking landscapes and long winter nights provide a spectacular backdrop for witnessing the aurora in a truly unforgettable setting.

Akureyri •Reykjavík •Vík

Norway

Stunning fjords and snowy peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop to the northern lights in one of the best locations to witness this natural spectacle.

Alta •Bodø •Lofoten •Tromsø

Shetland

A remote location and dark skies offer opportunities to witness the northern lights over rugged coastlines and peaceful seascapes.

Lerwick

Svalbard

Polar nights in the high arctic offer exceptional chances to witness the northern lights dancing across pristine, icy landscapes.

Longyearbyen

Sweden

Clear winter nights and pristine wilderness create an ideal place to experience the aurora in a magical Arctic setting.

Abisko •Björkliden •Kiruna

USA

Alaska’s vast wilderness and clear, dark skies create perfect conditions for experiencing the northern lights in a breathtaking natural setting.

Anchorage •Fairbanks •Healy

See also

Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​About Seek The Aurora

Anchorage

Home / USA / Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is in the south-central part of the state on the Cook Inlet. It’s known for its cultural sites, including the Alaska Native Heritage Center, which displays traditional crafts, stages dances and presents replicas of dwellings from the area’s indigenous groups. The city is also a gateway to nearby wilderness areas and mountains including the Chugach, Kenai and Talkeetna

The northern lights can be seen from September to April with the best viewing in winter.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Anchorage. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

2%

There is a 2% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Anchorage area (forecast for 28 April 2026 at 12:11pm UTC)

Kp 0.67

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
HPI 10 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz 1 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 3 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 3.66 p/cm3

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm3).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 368.3 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing gibbous 82%

Sunrise 5:58am

Sunset 9:55pm

Moonrise 6:47pm

Moonset 5:16am

Weather Forecast for Anchorage

Snow

5°C Feels like 2°C

High
5°C
Low
1°C

  • Chance of precipitation 99%

  • Cloud cover 87%

  • Southerly winds 4 km/h gusts of 7 km/h

  • Rain 6 mm

  • Snow 3 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Anchorage

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Anchorage.

  • Free cancellation

    Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour

    4.9 (406)

    10 hours From £247.21

    On this guided day tour you walk onto the unusual terrain of the Matanuska Glacier. You will see and learn about many glacial features such as seracs, moulons and crevasses. Don't forget your camera! This is an unparalleled, authentic activity. Tour price includes glacier access and guiding. Drive time is two hours each way, with a stop half way there where you can purchase lunch and snack items.

  • Free cancellation

    Anchorage to Seward Cruise Transfer & Wildlife Tour

    4.9 (38)

    6 hours From £170.57

    We've specially curated our Anchorage to Seward Tour and Transfer to include the best of Alaska in a day. This Small Group tour includes: breathtaking scenery, up close wildlife, and a glacier walk. *Hotel Pick up, Luggage transfer and drop off at your preferred location in Seward.( Cruise Ship Port or Hotel) *Fully equipped new Sprinter Vans and SUVs *Certified Alaskan Travel guide. *Entrance fees Included: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center- Bears, Moose, Elk, Wolves and more. *Optional lunch stop at Girdwood *Glacier viewing and guided walk up to Byron Glacier. *Scenic Views and wildlife picture stops along Turnagain Arm *Generous snacks, water and personalized Welcome Anchorage Bag

  • Free cancellation

    Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach Package

    No reviews

    11 hours From £276.82

    We make it easy to see it all in one day! Relax on the coach as you enjoy the beauty of Turnagain Arm. On the cruise get ready to view one of the largest concentration of glaciers in Alaska. Weather, ice conditions and wildlife activity changes daily and our captains may adjust the route to provide the best cruise experience while keeping your safety and comfort a top priority. We take pride in ensuring that your time with us is an enjoyable memory that becomes a favorite highlight of your Alaska vacation. We operate first-class catamarans. Due to their dual hull design, these powerful high-speed catamarans are extremely stable and able to smoothly navigate through the narrow fjords and passages that lead us to the face of massive glaciers. By operating safely and efficiently, Phillips Cruises & Tours provides a comfortable cruise and our No Seasickness Guarantee assures nervous cruisers the confidence that they will enjoy our cruise without any unpleasant effects.

  • Free cancellation Likely to sell out

    Anchorage Sightseeing and Food Tour - Available All Year Long!

    4.9 (135)

    4 hours 30 minutes From £146.52

    We have 98% Five Star Reviews! Check out our profile! Satisfy Your Hunger and Curiosity on this Anchorage, Alaska 4.5 -5 hour Tour! Get a tasty sampling of Alaska on this food and sightseeing city tour of Anchorage! You’ll be led by one of our local certified guides who has a passion for sharing the history and tales of this unique town with travelers. You will taste fantastic foods, learn about the history of this great state, see incredible vistas around the city, and hear incredible survival stories from all over Alaska. If you have any questions prior to booking, please feel free to get in touch.

  • Free cancellation

    Anchorage to Seward Direct Transfer Tour

    No reviews

    2 hours From £59.36

    Begin your journey to Seward with ease on our direct transfer from Anchorage. Instead of navigating rental cars or dealing with complicated logistics, sit back and enjoy a smooth ride aboard a spacious, climate-controlled motorcoach designed for comfort. Oversized windows provide incredible views of the Seward Highway, one of Alaska’s most scenic drives, where mountains, glaciers, and the dramatic shoreline of Turnagain Arm unfold along the route. Our experienced drivers are attentive, professional, and committed to getting you to the port safely and on time for your cruise departure. With reliable schedules, generous luggage capacity, and a reputation for dependable service, this transfer is the stress-free way to start your adventure in Seward.

  • Free cancellation Likely to sell out

    Viator Exclusive: Go eBike Alaska on Tony Knowles Trail

    4.8 (251)

    2 hours From £105.19

    Relax, and enjoy a wonderful ride on a peddle-assisted bicycle, as we take you safely along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. See local wildlife as well as migrating birds that travel to their summer breeding grounds.

Places to check out around Anchorage

Explore more nearby Anchorage

  • Beautiful afternoon in Alaska as the storm lifts, Eagle River, Alaska

    Credit: Cindy Dalton

    Eagle River

    61°20'45"N, 149°34'2"W

    Aurora probability in Eagle River: 2%

    Just 20 miles north of Anchorage, Eagle River is nestled in the Chugach Mountains. This lovely town is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing and skiing in the winter. The scenic views and proximity to nature make it a perfect getaway for those looking to explore the Alaskan wilderness.

  • Spencer Glacier, Girdwood, Alaska

    Credit: Alexandra Tran

    Girdwood

    60°57'27"N, 149°5'53"W

    Aurora probability in Girdwood: 2%

    Located about 40 miles south of Anchorage, Girdwood is a charming mountain town known for its ski resorts and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as hiking and wildlife viewing in the summer. The town also offers hot springs and a variety of dining options, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Portage Glacier, Whittier, Alaska

    Credit: Lori Stevens

    Whittier

    60°45'34"N, 148°41'22"W

    Aurora probability in Whittier: 2%

    Whittier is a small town located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, accessible via the scenic Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. Known as the gateway to Prince William Sound, Whittier offers stunning fjords, glaciers and abundant wildlife.

Other places in The USA

Fairbanks•​Healy

See also

Home•​Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​About Seek The Aurora

Bear Tooth Theatrepub

Home / USA / Anchorage / Bear Tooth Theatrepub

Bear Tooth Theatrepub is a Movie Theater and Pub at 1230 W 27th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99503, United States

Unlike conventional theatres, the Bear Tooth offers freshly prepared food and draft beer and wine for consumption inside the theatre while watching the movie.

Website • Facebook • Instagram • Twitter • Phone: (907) 276-4200

Where to find Bear Tooth Theatrepub?

61°11'45"N, 149°54'25"W

What do people think of Bear Tooth Theatrepub?

  • 4.9

  • Great Pizza, & you can have wine and beer while you watch a movie with your date.

    Michelle N19 September 2011

  • If you reserve a booth you can show up late and not have to wait in line for a seat! So worth it.

    nutsenmai30 October 2010

  • Go early for best parking options and order your meal to be delivered to you at your seat

    Anna B13 February 2019

  • If you like quesadillas and pickled jalapeños, I suggest getting the garlic treats. They’re so good!

    Annie M20 February 2018

Other places to try near Bear Tooth Theatrepub