Humanity has always turned toward the magnificence of the cosmos, from the ancient Egyptians to Galileo to Van Gogh. But, according to a 2016 article in the scientific journal Science Advances, 80 percent of the world and more than 99 percent of the US and European populations currently live under “light-polluted” skies, where excessive artificial light manufactured by cities conceals those naturally starry skyscapes. Therefore, finding the best places to stargaze can be tricky. Luckily, Noble destinations are home to some of the last remaining places to look up and get lost in the United States.
Friday Public Stargazing [Jackson, WY]
Every Friday from October to April, the Center for the Arts hosts a free public stargazing event, where guests gather on the lawn under the vast lit up sky above them. Astronomy gurus supply telescopes for your viewing while wandering the grounds to inform you of planets or constellations on view as well as answer questions.
Where to Stay Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa
Southern Cross Constellation [Big Pine Key, FL]
Big Pine Key has strict restrictions on the use of artificial light because of its nesting turtle population, making it one of the few places in the country where, come February, the Southern Cross constellation is visible to the naked eye. Join the approximately 600 other amateur astronomers who come to see it for themselves during one of the island’s most anticipated stargazing events.
Where to Stay Little Palm Island Resort & Spa // Ocean Key Resort & Spa
Monthly Star Parties [Los Angeles, CA]
High above the lights of Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory – something like southern California’s gateway to the cosmos – hosts a monthly expert-led viewing of the sun, moon, visible planets, and constellations that is free to the public. It is one of those night sky events that feels even more surreal above such a big city. Want to know ahead of time what will be best visible and when? Check out the online Weekly Sky Report.
Where to Stay The Portofino Hotel & Marina
Pluto Viewing [Gateway, CO]
With a lack of smog and artificial light, Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa sits beneath one of the darkest night skies on the planet, making it one of the best places to view Pluto year-round. Take advantage by booking a private astronomer-guided Stargazing Dinner, staying in one of the Stargazer Casitas with an upper-level observation deck complete with fire pit and hot tub, or attending one of the NASA astronomer-led Curiosity Retreats.
Where to Stay Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa
Milky Way [Mill Valley, CA]
The Bay Area may be better known for fog, but that doesn’t mean stargazing events aren’t available. With the guided Summer Astronomy Program, viewers are invited to the Mountain Theater at the top of Mount Tamalpais, one of the few spots in the Bay Area to view the full Milky Way as the city lights are blocked by the marine layer. A variety of telescopes are also available.
Where to Stay Argonaut Hotel
