Published on
August 29, 2025
Stargazing is a magical experience. There’s something awe-inspiring about watching the night sky, whether it’s the Milky Way stretching above or meteors streaking across the heavens. If you’re a traveler who loves to gaze at the stars, there are several remarkable spots across the United States where you can enjoy a truly breathtaking view of the night sky. From dark sky parks to remote national parks, these locations offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country.
Death Valley National Park, California
For travelers who want to experience one of the darkest skies in the U.S., Death Valley National Park is a top destination. With its unique landscape and remote location, this park is perfect for stargazing. The dry, clear air and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for seeing celestial events like meteor showers and the Milky Way.
The vastness of Death Valley’s landscape makes it an excellent spot for viewing the night sky. In fact, on moonless nights, the Milky Way can be so bright that it casts shadows on the ground. Visiting during the fall or spring ensures that temperatures are more bearable, making for a more comfortable stargazing experience.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park isn’t just famous for its majestic canyon; it’s also one of the best places for stargazing in the U.S. Designated as a Dark Sky Park, the Grand Canyon offers unparalleled views of the night sky. The clear, crisp air and the absence of nearby city lights make it a prime location for observing constellations, planets, and the Milky Way.
Each year, the National Park Service hosts star parties to educate visitors on the importance of dark skies. Whether you’re standing at the rim of the canyon or hiking along its trails, the night sky will take your breath away. Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, offering pleasant weather for stargazing and hiking.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico
Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico is famous for offering one of the best stargazing venues in the world. Apart from the ancient Puebloan structures, Chaco Canyon features stunning ancient archeological sites. Being one of the darkest areas of the sky in the United States, it is an International Dark Sky Park which allows visitors to see the Milky Way without any limitations. Due to the park’s isolation, it is stargazing friendly.
With the visit to Chaco Canyon, you will be able to view the sky the same way the Ancestral Puebloans viewed it hundreds of years ago. The spectacular beauty of the clear desert sky allows everyone to look in amazement at the Milky Way and numerous distant constellations. To make the most of your experience, visit during the spring and autumn cool months.
Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah
Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah is another great destination for stargazing. This park is home to the world’s first Dark Sky Park designation, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about the night sky. The monument’s natural rock formations set against the backdrop of a starry sky create a spectacular scene. It’s especially popular with astrophotographers who capture stunning shots of the Milky Way above the rock arches.
This Dark Sky Park offers pristine views of the night sky, far from the light pollution of urban areas. The best time to visit is during the fall or spring when temperatures are moderate and the stargazing conditions are ideal.
Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
If you’re on the East Coast and looking for an excellent stargazing spot, Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania should be at the top of your list. Known for its exceptional visibility of the night sky, this park is one of the darkest places on the East Coast. The park offers a 360-degree view of the night sky, with opportunities to see the Milky Way, planets, and even distant nebulae.
Cherry Springs is one of the world’s first Dark Sky Parks, offering optimal stargazing conditions throughout the year. While the summer months are the most popular, autumn and spring offer fewer crowds and equally stunning skies. Be sure to pack warm layers if you plan to visit in the winter.
Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah
Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah is another great destination for stargazing. This park is home to the world’s first Dark Sky Park designation, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about the night sky. The monument’s natural rock formations set against the backdrop of a starry sky create a spectacular scene. It’s especially popular with astrophotographers who capture stunning shots of the Milky Way above the rock arches.
This Dark Sky Park offers pristine views of the night sky, far from the light pollution of urban areas. The best time to visit is during the fall or spring when temperatures are moderate and the stargazing conditions are ideal.
Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho
Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho offers a unique stargazing experience. The park’s volcanic terrain and high elevation make it feel otherworldly, and the dark, clear skies provide perfect conditions for watching the stars. It wasn’t until 2017 that Craters of the Moon was officially designated as a Dark Sky Park, but it has long been known for its excellent stargazing opportunities.
This park is perfect for those looking for a more remote, peaceful stargazing experience. Summer offers the warmest weather, but spring and fall provide cooler, more comfortable nights for stargazing.
Cosmic Campground, New Mexico
Cosmic Campground, nestled in the Gila Wilderness of New Mexico, is one of the darkest places in the U.S. Certified as a Dark Sky Sanctuary, it offers some of the most pristine stargazing in the world. The nearest artificial light is over 40 miles away, ensuring that the night sky is exceptionally dark.
This remote campground is perfect for those seeking an escape from light pollution and a chance to experience the night sky in its purest form. Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, offering mild temperatures and ideal stargazing conditions.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan
Located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Headlands International Dark Sky Park offers some of the best stargazing in the Midwest. The park’s remote location, far from the light pollution of nearby cities, provides clear views of the Milky Way and even the aurora borealis during certain months.
The park is open year-round, but summer offers the warmest temperatures for stargazing. If you visit in the winter, be prepared for cold conditions, though the longer nights during this season give you plenty of time to explore the sky.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. offers a wide variety of stargazing destinations, from national parks to remote dark sky sanctuaries. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply someone looking to experience the beauty of the Milky Way, these locations provide some of the best views of the night sky in the world. If you’re planning a stargazing trip, make sure to visit these dark sky parks for an unforgettable celestial experience.
