We stayed at the Top of the World hotel but it was booked. This time of the year there are a bunch of birders/photographers, so at least for June, you need to get your reservations early. There is of coarse other lodging, but you would have to check it out. There are quite a few places to eat in town, but don’t expect any 5 star eateries. There is also a pretty well supplied grocery store. If you are one to like a cocktail in the the evening, understand that Barrow is a dry town, no bars or places to buy alcohol. Some carefully pack their favorite in the checked luggage, but I would definitely consider a plastic container. So, yes, there are plenty of places to stay. As far as finding the birds, I would definitely go with a guide. What is interesting is that the guides, there are several this time of the year, all know one another so they share each day what birds they have seen and where. With that communication your chances of finding all the species in the area. So, highly recommended, but be prepared for the elements and bring your long lenses. I did all of my shooting with a 600mm prime with converters on a full frame body. I took a 70-200 and 24-105 but hardly took them out of the bag. Our guide, Bryan Holiday, has historically been a full frame shooter, but lately he has been trying out an Olympus OM. Each camera system has their advantages/disadvantage, but Bryan is very pleased with what Olympus has to offer right now. Definitely easier to travel with. An interesting destination, but if your want to be close to the tundra and have reasonable accommodations, its a great trip.