Witnessing the shimmering spectacle of the Northern Lights is a dream for many. While destinations like Iceland and Norway often steal the spotlight, there are charming small towns right here in America where you can experience this natural wonder. From Alaska’s remote corners to the shores of Lake Superior, these hidden gems offer not just celestial displays but also unique local experiences. Let’s count down the top 10 small towns where the aurora borealis paints the night sky.
10. Bettles, Alaska
Nestled within the Arctic Circle, Bettles is a tiny town that boasts some of the darkest skies in the United States, making it a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing. With a population hovering around 20, this remote location offers an intimate experience. Visitors can stay at the historic Bettles Lodge, which operates its own aurora viewing hut on a nearby hill, complete with hot cocoa and warm blankets. The average price of a 3-4 bedroom home in Bettles ranges from $150,000 to $362,098, reflecting the town’s remote allure and untouched surroundings.
9. Cooke City, Montana
Just outside the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Cooke City combines rugged wilderness with small-town charm. While it’s known for outdoor adventures like snowmobiling and backcountry skiing, the town’s high elevation and clear skies also provide opportunities to glimpse the Northern Lights. After a day exploring Yellowstone’s lesser-known Lamar Valley, often called America’s Serengeti for its wildlife sightings, settle in and watch the sky dance above the snow-capped peaks. Homebuyers can expect to pay between $400,000 and $700,000 for a 3-4 bedroom house in this scenic, adventure-filled town.
8. Nome, Alaska
Famous for the end point of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, Nome offers more than just a rich Alaskan heritage. Its remote location on the Seward Peninsula places it directly under the auroral oval. Visitors can explore the local gold mining history during the day and embark on aurora hunts at night. A hidden gem here is the Pilgrim Hot Springs, a natural geothermal oasis where you can soak in warm waters while the Northern Lights ripple overhead—a truly unforgettable experience. The average cost of a 3-4 bedroom home here ranges from $250,000 to $450,000, making it an affordable option for those seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.
7. Grand Forks, North Dakota
Grand Forks might surprise some as a Northern Lights destination, but this friendly community on the Red River has seen its fair share of auroral displays. The flat plains surrounding the town offer unobstructed horizons, perfect for sky watching. Don’t miss the Greenway, a 2,200-acre park along the river with trails ideal for a nighttime stroll under the stars. Local events like the Art & Wine Walk add a touch of culture to your visit, making Grand Forks a delightful blend of hospitality and natural beauty. Housing prices for a 3-4 bedroom home here fall between $319,000 and $349,900, providing an attractive option for families or aurora enthusiasts.
6. Rangeley, Maine
Tucked away in the mountains of western Maine, Rangeley is a picturesque haven for nature lovers. Its remote location means minimal light pollution, providing dark skies that occasionally light up with the aurora. In addition to Northern Lights viewing, Rangeley offers outdoor activities year-round, from skiing at Saddleback Mountain to hiking the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway. A local secret: venture out to one of the frozen lakes for a chance to see the aurora reflected on the ice—a magical sight that captures the essence of Maine’s wilderness. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in this tranquil retreat typically cost between $300,000 and $600,000.
5. Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska
As the northernmost city in the United States, Utqiagvik offers a truly unique Arctic experience. Here, the sun sets for polar night in the winter, creating extended periods of darkness perfect for Northern Lights displays. Visitors can immerse themselves in Inupiat culture by visiting the Iñupiat Heritage Center, and learning about indigenous traditions and history. The town’s remote location on the edge of the Arctic Ocean makes it one of the most extraordinary places to witness the aurora’s ethereal glow. Housing costs for a 3-4 bedroom home in Utqiagvik range from $300,000 to $500,000, reflecting its rarity and unique environment.
4. Ely, Minnesota
Known as the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Ely is a rustic retreat where the natural world takes center stage. The vast expanse of forests and lakes provides a serene backdrop for spotting the Northern Lights. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy dog sledding, snowshoeing, or visiting the International Wolf Center to learn about the area’s wildlife. Housing prices for a 3-4 bedroom home here are some of the most affordable on this list, ranging from $150,000 to $230,000, making Ely a budget-friendly option for aurora lovers.
3. Talkeetna, Alaska
With its historic downtown and panoramic views of Denali, Talkeetna offers a blend of charm and adventure. This quirky town is a hub for climbers and artists alike. The clear nights here often feature dazzling aurora displays, especially during the winter months. Don’t miss a visit to the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, where you can enjoy a warm fireplace and expansive decks ideal for sky gazing. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Talkeetna are priced between $350,000 and $550,000, a reflection of the town’s vibrant community and breathtaking vistas.
2. Marquette, Michigan
Situated on the southern shore of Lake Superior, Marquette’s northern latitude and clear skies make it a hotspot for Northern Lights sightings. The city’s coastline offers stunning vistas where the aurora can dance above the vast expanse of the lake. Explore Presque Isle Park, a local favorite, where you can find quiet spots away from city lights. Home prices for 3-4 bedroom properties in Marquette range from $230,000 to $400,000, offering an affordable slice of this lakeside paradise.
1. Fairbanks, Alaska
At the top of our list is Fairbanks, arguably the best place in the United States to witness the Northern Lights. Sitting under the “Auroral Oval,” Fairbanks experiences frequent and intense aurora activity, especially from late August to April. The University of Alaska Fairbanks operates the Geophysical Institute, which provides aurora forecasts to help you plan your viewing. For a unique experience, relax in the Chena Hot Springs Resort’s mineral pools as the skies above come alive with color. If you’re looking to settle in Fairbanks, 3-4 bedroom homes range from $319,900 to $444,900, making it a practical yet adventurous choice for aurora enthusiasts.
