Northern Lights

http://stargazing.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_see_the_northern_lights

In regards to places you can certainly remain continental and see them in Alaska and Canada

Some good European places would include Iceland and Norway. Both places have tourism built around the phenomena.

If you don't mind traveling there in the winter (and seeing that you're from Texas, you probably would!), your chances of seeing the northern lights are probably best near Fairbanks, Alaska. I also got a nice view near Archangelsk... but these days, Finland, Norway and Sweden are probably more friendly places to see an aurora!

Believe it or not, you can see them, somewhat faintly, on occasion, from Seattle. Alaska and other far north locales provide a much better view though.

Here's a useful tool:

http://www.gedds.alaska.edu/AuroraForecast/

Because successful viewing of an aurora display often involves driving to dark rural areas beyond the city glare, and waiting outside in sub-zero temperatures, it really helps to have an accurate forecast! Unless, of course, you really love Arctic winter nights...

From what I have read, you really have to be at the right place at the right time. Evidently it depends on chance. Do your research as these responders suggest to increase your chances.