There’s something about gazing up at a starry night sky that brings us closer to the magic of the universe. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget how awe-inspiring our galaxy truly is. Fortunately, there are still places in the world where we can escape the city lights and appreciate the stars in all their glory. Here are five dreamy stargazing hotspots to add to your bucket list!
Lost in the stars: a night in Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park in California is known for its stunning rock formations, but it’s also a prime spot for stargazing. The park has minimal light pollution, making it a dark sky preserve. Visitors can take a ranger-led stargazing tour, or simply drive out to one of the many pull-offs with expansive views of the night sky. The park even offers astronomy programs during certain times of the year.
Stellar secrets: hidden skies in Big Bend
Big Bend National Park in Texas is another dark sky preserve with some of the darkest skies in the continental United States. With over 800,000 acres of protected land, there are countless spots to lay out a blanket and gaze up at the stars. The park also hosts a yearly "Star Party" in April, where amateur and professional astronomers alike gather to share their knowledge and telescopes.
Sleep under the stars: the best campsites
For those who want to take their stargazing experience to the next level, camping under the stars is a must. Many national parks and state parks offer campsites specifically designed for stargazing. Some top picks include Dead Horse Point State Park in Utah, which offers unique yurt camping with panoramic views of the Milky Way, and Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania, which is known for its exceptionally dark skies.
Shooting stars: witness the Perseids meteor shower
One of the most spectacular astronomical events to witness is a meteor shower, and the Perseids is one of the best. Occurring annually in August, this meteor shower is known for its bright, colorful shooting stars. Some great places to view the Perseids include Glacier National Park in Montana and Acadia National Park in Maine.
Astronomy for all: public observatories to visit
For those who want to learn more about the stars and planets, visiting a public observatory is a must. The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, California is a popular spot, with free admission and stunning views of the city skyline. The McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas offers guided tours and star parties, and the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona is famous for its discovery of Pluto.
Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or simply appreciate the beauty of the night sky, these five stargazing hotspots offer something for everyone. So pack your bags and prepare to get lost in the stars!