This remote Manitoba town is the best place to see the northern lights in Canada

The northern lights are one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular shows and seeing them in person is often referred to as a bucket-list adventure.

Dancing lights of green, purple, pink and white are caused by geomagnetic storms that cause solar winds from the sun to move toward Earth.

When these winds meet the Earth’s magnetic fields, it causes a collision of atoms and molecules which then produce tiny light sources, aka aurora borealis, a natural and breath-taking light show.

Canada’s first arctic seaport, Churchill, Manitoba, offers one of the best viewing spots for the dazzling northern lights across the nation.

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The remoteness of the town, situated along the Hudson’s Bay coast some 1,000 kilometres from Winnipeg, means very little light pollution and unrivalled displays of the lights around 300 days per year — peaking in February and March.

This exceptional light show also comes with unique ways to view and stay in Churchill. Local operators offer bespoke accommodations and experiences for the northern lights and other unique Churchill adventures — which can only be accessed by train or plane. No roads lead to Churchill.

From heated, glass structures to a delicious dinner in the middle of the frozen subarctic, there are so many ways you can visit Churchill and capture life-long memories under the aurora borealis.

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Aurora Domes are the perfect combination of outdoor-indoor atmospheres to view the northern lights in Churchill.

Thanks to the heated facility’s plexiglass bubble windows, you can witness the lights while staying indoors and away from the elements. Think of it as a fish bowl-type window where you can actually poke your head into the sky — perfect for capturing photos.

Don’t forget the Aurora Pods, custom-built viewing structures with reclining chairs that offer unparalleled views of the night sky and frozen taiga while staying warm and toasty.

Located in the middle of the dense boreal forest, you’ll witness the magic of the northern lights through the pod’s glass walls for a 360-degree view.

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The yurt from Nanuk Operations is another incredible way to witness the northern lights. Its circular and heated tent-like structure not only offers toasty atmospheres to gaze at the sky, but its wrap-around deck is a perfect platform for capturing photos as well.

Indigenous-owned and operated, Wapusk Adventures specializes in a different kind of experience in Churchill: dog sledding!

You’ll experience your own winter wonderland as you travel along a trail in the picturesque boreal forest with a team of super sled dogs. You can also visit the kennel at nighttime to photograph the northern lights and say hi to some friendly pups.

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What’s a spectacular night viewing the aurora borealis without something to eat?

Thanks to this special dining experience with Dan’s Diner, you can enjoy a truly one-of-a-kind dinner and show.

You’ll traverse across the frozen Churchill River in a tundra vehicle to the pop-up and feast on a chef-curated multi-course meal while gazing up at the lights thanks to the restaurant’s many windows.

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Don’t forget an outdoor nightcap served around an ice bar and bonfire — one last chance to view the lights before you head back across the river.

So get ready to cross the northern lights off your bucket list and experience one of nature’s most dazzling shows right here in Churchill, Manitoba.

Visit Travel Manitoba online for more information on the aurora borealis and the travel experiences available in Churchill.