The Aurora Ice Museum in Fairbanks, Alaska is one of a kind and was originally built as a tourist attractor for the Chena Hot Springs Resort in 2004. Unfortunately the first Aurora Ice Hotel melted in July of 2004 due to 90 degree temperatures, but this did not stop the area’s ice artists from building another structure and calling it the Aurora Ice Museum. The second structure was completed in January of 2005 and the goal with this build was to make it the only ice structure in the world to be open year round.
The biggest obstacle to making the Ice Museum a year round attraction was the cost to keep it “on ice” year round. This problem was solved when it was decided to use the hot springs to keep the Ice Museum from melting. An absorption chiller was designed by the Energy Concepts Co. out of Annapolis, Maryland to use the available geothermal resource (hot springs) to run it. This was the first and only one of its kind built and has won many awards for its ingenuity and of course it worked as the Ice Museum has now been standing for over six years even in 90 degree temperatures.
As you step into the Ice Museum the first thing you will notice besides the 20 degree temperature is that you can see martini glasses in progress, that’s right ice martini glasses. As you move towards the central area your jaw will most likely drop as you see the massive ice bar, it truly is a work of art and includes bar stools topped with what appears to be caribou fur. As you belly up to the bar you will be in awe of not only the pulsing colors meant to represent the aurora borealis but the sculpture throughout the entire area. Of these exhibits you will notice the two 800 pound jousting warriors, a complete oversized chess set, the Coca-Cola polar bear, and the chapel with it’s alter where several weddings have taken place.
Not to be forgotten are the ridiculously amazing chandeliers that can be seen hanging with their individual crystal (ice) pieces and the changing cornucopia of lights truly make this the most awesome ice fort ever. Although any kid who has ever made any kind of ice fort would truly love to live inside this place forever, it is made for adults to enjoy. After you have enjoyed the signature apple martini you are encouraged to throw the ice glass against one of the walls. (I am fairly certain the place is not run by Greeks, but you never know. Ohpa!)
Another amazing feature of the Ice Museum is the large bedroom settings; of course they too are made of ice, but are covered by again what appear to be caribou hides. One other thing you will never see outside the museum is the ice igloo outhouse, truly a magnificent invention and don’t worry the seat is also fur-lined to protect those sensitive parts. This is truly one of the most amazing places to visit and should definitely make the top ten on your “bucket list.”
“Ice Museum” Chena Hot Springs Resort
“Aurora Ice Museum” Unusual and Unique Hotels
