Stargazing has been a treasured pastime for generations. From ancient astronomers using the cosmos to navigate, to present-day travelers eager to enjoy dark sky tourism, looking up at the night sky has captivated humans for centuries.

But where are the best places to marvel at the stars?

Whether you’re an amateur astronomer, a nature lover, or simply enjoy the peacefulness of looking up at the stars, plenty of destinations worldwide offer spectacular stargazing opportunities.

From remote national parks with uninterrupted views of the Milky Way to designated dark sky reserves with minimal light pollution, this guide will take a closer look at the top places to connect with the cosmos. Pack your telescope and join us on a journey through some of the best stargazing spots on Earth.

Stargazing Tips

Before heading out on a stargazing adventure, it’s important to understand what you’re looking at up in the sky. Knowing this will make it easier to follow star maps and navigate the constellations.

Here are some useful tips to get you started.

Choose the Right Location

Finding the perfect location to observe the stars can make all the difference. Ideally, you want to find a spot far from city lights because light pollution can make it difficult to see stars.

Check out local parks or nature reserves, but get permission if you’re on private property. Or, sit tight and read our list of the best places to stargaze.

Get the Right Gear

Stargazing doesn’t require a lot of fancy equipment, but it does require a few basic items. A red flashlight is essential, as it won’t interfere with your dark-adapted vision. A pair of binoculars can also come in handy for observing stars and planets up close.

If you’re really serious about stargazing, consider investing in a telescope. There are many different types available to suit different budgets and skill levels, so do your research before making a purchase. White Star Outdoors is a great place to start, but there are several affordable telescopes for beginners, too.

Check the Weather

Weather conditions can greatly impact the quality of stargazing. Clear skies are obviously best, but remember that humidity and haze can also affect visibility. Look up the forecast before heading out to ensure the conditions for stargazing are right.

Know What You’re Looking At

Take the time to learn the basic constellations and the names of the brightest stars. This will make it easier to navigate the night sky and spot interesting objects like planets or comets.

Apps like Star Walk or Sky Map can be great tools for identifying stars and constellations. However, learning about different types of stars can help you understand if what you’re seeing is a planet, star, or something else.

Best Places for Looking Up at the Stars

Looking up at the stars is a timeless, awe-inspiring experience that has captured people’s imaginations for centuries. If you’re looking for the best places to stargaze around the world, here are some incredible travel destinations offering breathtaking cosmic views.

Observatorio del Teide, Tenerife

Situated on top of a dormant volcano in Tenerife, an island in Spain, the Observatorio del Teide is one of Europe’s best places for stargazing. The clear skies and high altitude make for some of the best views of the Milky Way. The observatory also offers guided tours for visitors to learn more about the night sky.

Death Valley National Park, California

Located in the state of California in the United States, Death Valley National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in the country. The park is also one of the most geologically diverse places on the planet, with stunning rock formations and salt flats.

Basically, if you’re looking for a unique stargazing experience in the United States, Death Valley is the place to be. 

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

This is arguably the best stargazing spot in the world. Located on an extinct volcano, it offers clear skies, low humidity, and excellent atmospheric conditions for stargazing.

There are several observatories on the mountain, making it a hub for astronomers and astrophotographers. However, novice stargazers and adventurous travelers are welcome to visit, too!

The Atacama Desert, Chile

Known for its dry and high-altitude location, the Atacama Desert is one of the best places in the world to observe the night sky and perhaps the best place for stargazing in South America.

The clear and high-altitude atmosphere allows for breathtaking views of the Milky Way Galaxy, making it a popular destination for stargazing enthusiasts.

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Located in the United States, this state park is known for its dark sky and absence of light pollution. It has been declared one of the darkest places on Earth, which makes it perfect for stargazing. The park has several designated stargazing areas and telescopes and even offers night sky tours.

NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia

This reserve is located in one of the most isolated regions in Namibia, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. The remote location provides little to no light pollution, allowing for a stunning night sky view.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia is home to Ayers Rock, a massive sandstone rock formation sacred to the Aboriginal people. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Reserve, which means it’s free from light pollution and offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. The natural beauty of the area only adds to the experience.

Jasper National Park, Canada

Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada, is a designated Dark Sky Preserve, which means that it is specifically designated to preserve the natural night sky and limit light pollution. This ensures a stunning view of the Milky Way galaxy.

As with most other stargazing spots on this list, Jasper National Park also offers guided tours and stargazing programs for visitors.

More Travel Tips

Whether looking up at the stars, hiking volcanic mountains, or immersing yourself in deep blue water, it’s helpful to arm yourself with the best travel tips when exploring the great big world we live in. As a travel expert, I’ve traversed everywhere, from Guatemala to Spain, and compiled some of the best travel tips along the way.

If you’re preparing to visit one of the destinations on this list, browse my featured articles for more insights. Happy travels!