Yellowknife in 3 Days for Couples - Two guided Aurora Borealis nights with photo help
In Collaboration with Aurora Bus Tours . Updated on February 3, 2026.
A cozy 2-night, 3-day Northern Lights getaway in Yellowknife designed for couples: two guided aurora nights, daytime Arctic experiences, local culture and intimate moments under the sky. February (winter) trip—warm layers recommended.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Aurora Bus Tours , inspired by the tour 2 Nights Aurora Viewing. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Two guided Aurora Borealis nights with photo help
- Daytime Arctic activities (cultural visit, snowshoeing/ice fishing)
- Comfortable central hotel (Explorer Hotel) with easy pickup
- Professional aurora photography tips and warm drinks
- Optional winter-gear rental available
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival day, orientation in Old Town and first guided aurora viewing night. Evening features hot drinks, blankets and professional photo help.
Arrive & check in — Explorer Hotel
Arrive in Yellowknife and check in at the centrally located Explorer Hotel. Use this time to drop bags, change into warm layers and confirm pickup details for tonight's aurora tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask reception to confirm your aurora-tour pickup time and meeting spot the evening of arrival — the operator often gathers at the hotel.
- Request a quiet room facing away from main roads for a restful nap before the late night—use earplugs if you’re light sleepers.
- If you haven’t rented winter gear yet, ask the front desk about local rental pickup times so you can be ready before the tour.
Orientation & sunset at Bush Pilot's Monument (Old Town)
Short transfer to Old Town and a gentle walk to the Bush Pilot's Monument for a romantic sunset viewpoint overlooking Yellowknife Bay. Great spot for early aurora photos and a first taste of northern light horizon views.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden hour here is intimate—bring a warm drink and a light blanket to share for a cozy photo together.
- Watch for icy patches on the path; wear insulated boots and keep a close hold on each other on slopes.
- The viewpoint is exposed; bring windproof outer layers for a comfortable 20–40 minute stay and better sunset photos.
Dinner — Bullock's Bistro (romantic dinner)
Casual, cozy bistro dinner in town. Leave time to savor local flavours and discuss aurora-chasing plans for the night.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a corner table for a quieter, intimate meal—mention if it's a special occasion for a small touch from the staff.
- Ask the server for local specialties (fish or game) and share plates so you can try more items together.
- Eat warmly and moderately—heavy alcohol or very rich meals can make the cold nights harder to enjoy; hydrate between drinks.
Night 1 — Aurora Bus Tours: guided aurora chase (shared group)
Pickup from your hotel for a guided bus excursion to dark-sky viewing locations away from city lights. Enjoy hot beverages, warm blankets, aurora stories and on-site photography help from guides.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: ask your guide to help stage a couple-shot beneath the aurora—guides often bring a remote shutter or take pro-style photos of guests.
- Bring a small thermos and hand warmers in case you want more private warm-up breaks during long viewing periods.
- For photos: request your guide to show the ideal camera settings (long exposure, low ISO) and where to position yourselves against the horizon for silhouettes.
Day 2
A full Arctic day—breakfast, cultural visit, choice of snowshoeing or ice fishing at Prelude Lake—and second aurora night at a different scenic location.
Hearty breakfast at Explorer Hotel
Start with a warming breakfast at the hotel to fuel a cold Arctic day—hot porridge, eggs and coffee before heading out.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose cooked options and warm drinks to raise your core temperature early—important before heading outside.
- Ask for extra hot water if you want to take a thermos for later outdoor moments.
- If you booked winter gear rental, have sizes confirmed before breakfast so you can collect items and go straight out afterward.
Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre — local culture & exhibits
Visit the territorial museum to learn about Indigenous heritage, northern life and the science behind the aurora. A calm, warm cultural stop to deepen your connection to the landscape.
Tips from local experts:
- Look for exhibits on Indigenous stories of the lights—share them together as a meaningful prelude to tonight's viewing.
- The museum is heated and a great warm refuge—plan 60–90 minutes to learn without rushing.
- Check exhibit schedules; some days have short talks or rotating displays that make the visit more intimate and memorable.
Lunch — The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery
Relaxed lunch with local flavours and craft beer options; a casual, friendly spot to refuel and plan the afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a booth or window seat for a quieter meal—many couples prefer a relaxed pace mid-day.
- Share a couple of small plates to try local game or fish dishes without feeling too full for afternoon activity.
- Ask staff for a cozy table away from the bar if you prefer a low-key atmosphere.
Afternoon Arctic option — Prelude Lake Territorial Park (snowshoeing or ice fishing)
Choose a shared/paired activity: snowshoe across quiet trails or try ice fishing together on a frozen lake—both offer private moments and northern scenery. Local operators can set you up if you prefer guided support.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: arrange a short private moment on the snow—bring a thermos and share a brief hot-cocoa toast while watching the low winter light.
- If snowshoeing, ask your guide to pick an easy loop so you can walk side-by-side and enjoy conversation; if ice fishing, pick a heated shelter option for comfort.
- Confirm transport time back to town—Prelude Lake can be cold and the drive in winter takes longer than in summer; plan warm spare layers.
Relax & early dinner — unwind before the night chase
Return to town and relax at the hotel or a nearby bistro. A calm dinner keeps energy steady for the second aurora night.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep dinner warm and light—soup and shared mains help you stay comfortable before another late night.
- Take short naps if you can—a 30–45 minute rest in the late afternoon helps you enjoy the late-night viewing more fully.
- Confirm pickup time and clothing needs with the tour operator before you leave the restaurant.
Night 2 — Aurora Bus Tours: second viewing (alternative location)
A second guided aurora chase to a different dark-sky location for a fresh perspective. Guides provide snacks, hot drinks and photography help — ideal for couples wanting varied backdrops.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: ask guides early for a secluded spot and time for a short private photo session—many guides will assist with couple portraits.
- Bring two layers of gloves (thin liners + mitts) so you can remove outer gloves for camera handling without losing warmth.
- If you’d like a printed or high-res photo, confirm with the operator beforehand whether they provide digital copies of guide-taken photos.
Day 3
Final morning for a relaxed breakfast, a last stroll through Old Town for souvenirs and a gentle transfer to Yellowknife Airport for departure.
Breakfast & check-out
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel and check out. Use this time to pack photos and pick up any rental returns, including winter gear if used.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm any photo delivery method with the aurora operator and collect digital files or links before checkout.
- Return rented gear (if any) first thing to avoid last-minute delays—many rental shops have morning drop-off windows.
- If you have a late flight, ask the hotel about luggage hold so you can enjoy a last short walk before leaving.
Old Town stroll & artisan shopping (final romantic walk)
Take a gentle, scenic walk through Old Town to pick up locally made souvenirs and enjoy a last view of the frozen bay—ideal for a calm final memory together.
Tips from local experts:
- Seek out small galleries and craft shops for unique gifts—supporting local artists makes a meaningful souvenir.
- Keep the walk short and sheltered—there are several heated cafes nearby if you need warm breaks.
- If it’s icy, use the cleared sidewalks and avoid wandering onto unfenced shorelines; hand-in-hand footing makes it safer and romantic.
Transfer to Yellowknife Airport (departure)
Short transfer to Yellowknife Airport (YZF). Allow extra time in winter for check-in and security procedures.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow extra buffer for winter road conditions and airport check-in—arrive earlier than standard domestic recommendations.
- Keep boarding passes readily available and warm outer layers accessible for quick last-minute adjustments.
- If you have an afternoon flight, ask your hotel for a small packed snack to enjoy on the drive or at the terminal.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 3 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 5 |
| Total Activities | 12 |
| Total Places | 12 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Neighborhood, Restaurant, Experience, Meal, Culture, Outdoor, Transfer |