Curious about what’s beyond the world below? Spending some time in some of the most impressive US observatories is the best thing to do for those dreaming beyond the stratosphere. While many people can simply gaze at the sky and see the wonders that come with it by night, some observatories offer breathtaking views of the special objects, including galaxies, pulsars, and quasars in the solar system.
Some of these observatories are even behind incredible astronomical discoveries in the world. With that in mind, here are some of the best observatories in the US to visit.
10 Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff, Arizona
Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff
Want to have some fun in Flagstaff? One of the best things to do in Flagstaff is visit the Lowell Observatory. Lowell Observatory boasts some of the most unique astronomical research equipment, including the most sensitive telescopes that couldn’t work anywhere else on Earth.
Flagstaff itself is known for becoming the world’s first International Dark Sky City in 2001. However, this observatory itself is most famous for being the first place where Pluto was discovered. It is one of the oldest landmarks in the US that offers more than its stargazing opportunities. Several special events that tourists can catch are also held here from time to time.
9 Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, California
Griffirth Observatory, Los Angeles
Arguably the most famous observatory in the US and among the most well-known in the world, Griffith Observatory is free to visit and offers plenty to do. It also overlooks downtown LA, offering breathtaking views of the world-famous Hollywood Sign.
Griffith Observatory was launched in 1935 and guarantees plenty of fun, memorable experiences beyond its magnificent views. Have an amazing time witnessing the magic that comes with cosmic revolution at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. Head to the Ahmanson Hall of the Sky to see the beautiful sun in action through the solar telescope at the observatory. A wonderful time awaits at the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles.
8 Chabot Space & Science Center, Oakland, California
An aerial view of Oakland California
Dedicated to space and science, Chabot Space & Science Center is one of the best museums in California. Being home to three incredible telescopes, it is also among the most impressive observatories to explore in the US. The NASA Ames Visitor Center is also located here, and vacationers can enjoy learning about the role scientists play through hands-on challenges and various objects.
At the research-grade 36-inch, visitors can take in magnificent night sky views. Breathtaking views of San Francisco and San Francisco Bay are also guaranteed.
-
Opening hours
: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Wednesday through Sunday
7 The Museum Of Science, Boston, Massachusetts
The Museum of Science, Boston
Home to Gilliland Observatory, the Museum of Science is one of the best museums in Boston. Massachussetts. From incredible on-site exhibitions to fun virtual adventures, this museum has a lot to offer and was founded in 1830 as the Boston Society of Natural History.
At the museum, vacationers can enjoy amazing exhibits offering amazing experiences, including rocks and minerals, the universe, plants, and more. During the Astronomy After Hours, vacationers can enjoy seeing stars, the moon, planets, and other astronomical features from the Gilliland Observatory.
6 McDonald Observatory, Texas
McDonald Observatory in Texas
Located in the Davis Mountains, McDonald Observatory is one of the most incredible observatories in the US. It offers plenty of fun activities and programs for vacationers to enjoy, including witnessing the sun live from the theater and touring its telescopes, such as the 107″ Harlan J. Smith and Hobby-Eberly Telescope at Mt. Fowlkes’ summit.
Overseen by the University of Texas in Austin, McDonald Observatory is famous for being one of the leading centers for astronomical research in the world.
5 National Air & Space Museum, Washington D.C.
National Air & Space Museum in Washington DC
National Air & Space Museum is among the most famous museums in the world. Located at the National Mall in Washington D.C., it is also home to one of the top observatories in the US, Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory, where vacationers can witness incredible astronomic features.
The staff can help visitors in observing the sun, moon, and other objects through the observatory’s telescopes – all for free.
-
Cost of parking
: $15 -
Opening hours
: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
4 Yerkes Observatory, Williams Bay, Wisconsin
Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay
Built between 1895 and 1897, Yerkes Observatory is a historic landmark that’s worth visiting. It is one of the US’s most stunning observatories that’s best explored in group tours. Tours can last about one and a half hours and take travelers through the history of the observatory and how research is conducted. The observatory is also one of the best locations in the US for stargazing.
During the visit, one can enjoy marveling at the architectural features of the observatory, especially its interior, which can only be seen through reserved tours and scheduled events. Vacationers should check the observatory’s website for some special events and programs that they can take part in. The Yerkes Observatory is one of the best things to see in Wisconsin, so visiting it is definitely worth it.
3 Lick Observatory, Mt. Hamilton, California
A telescope at Lick Observatory, California, USA
Nestled in the San Jose mountains, Lick Observatory is incredibly stunning and comes with plenty of fun, memorable experiences. Owned and operated by the University of California, this observatory has offered astronomers excellent observing equipment since it was opened in 1888.
The site where it’s located was chosen by James Lick, a businessman and California’s wealthiest resident. James died in 1887, and his body was buried under the telescope. The observatory’s exhibits take travelers through its beautiful history, science, research, and technology.
2 Bishop Museum, Honolulu, Hawaii
Bishop Museum grounds, Honolulu, Hawaii
Visiting Bishop Museum is one of the best things to do in Hawaii, one of the best US destinations for stargazing. It is also the perfect spot to learn Hawaii’s history and culture. Its J. Watumull Planetarium was the first to open in Polynesia. The planetarium boasts 64 seats and connects travelers with the environment, the culture, and the universe.
One can attend one of the shows held at the museum, including a Special Evening Planetarium Show. From the observatory telescope and the observatory deck, vacationers can enjoy incredible views. Bishop Museum’s observatory is one of the best things to do in Honolulu to add to the bucket list.
1 Goldendale Observatory, Goldendale, Washington
Goldendale on a map
One of the awesome things to do in Washington State is pay a visit to this observatory. Situated in the hills above the Columbia River, near Columbia Hills, and other popular camping spots, like Mayhill and the Brooks Memoria, Goldendale Observatory is one of the best and largest observatories in the US.
From the observatory’s telescope, vacationers can enjoy breathtaking views of the scenery. At the domes, one can observe different celestial objects, including the sun, stars, planets, and more. There are also special programs that offer an incredible opportunity of enjoying live telescope views.