There’s something magical about relaxing under a starry night sky.
But it’s rare to find places with so little light pollution that you can truly enjoy the expanse of the Milky Way and all its constellations — particularly if you’re not interested in pitching a tent or trekking with the masses to big-name dark sky sites like Death Valley National Park or Big Bend National Park.
That’s why we’ve created a list of the best places to stargaze in the U.S. that don’t require you to go too far off the beaten path. These destinations are all certified International Dark Sky Parks, but are still easily-accessible from nearby towns. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the best of both worlds: the clearest, darkest skies with a comfy and convenient home base.
Located in: Coconino County, AZ
Established to preserve the majesty of natural landmarks and protect archeological sites, the Walnut Canyon National Monument, Sunset Crater National Monument, and Wupatki National Monument are dark sky heavyweights. Grouped together as the Flagstaff National Monuments, they earned a singular Dark Sky Park designation in 2016, thanks in part to Flagstaff’s progressive legislation to prevent light pollution in the area.
Visitors to these southwestern monuments can see a glittering dome of stars expand around breathtaking red rock formations. Guided night hikes and art by starlight parties run throughout the year, and lucky guests might even get to see a meteor shower. (Visit between April 19 and May 28 to catch this celestial event!)
This rustic-chic Flagstaff cabin sleeps up to 12, making it perfect for a group getaway. You can get stunning mountain views during the day, then sneak a preview of the dark skies you’re after from an Adirondack chair on the expansive wrap-around deck.
Located in: San Bernardino County, CA
Everyone knows Joshua Tree National Park is a daytime must-see on a trip to Palm Springs, but it truly lights up at night as the International Dark-Sky Association calls it the “last pool of natural darkness remaining in Southern California.”
Those who venture out after dark can experience the glow of the Milky Way unobstructed. While visitors are free to explore the park at night without guidance, star parties, astronomy lectures, and guided ranger tours are also available for those seeking a little education-building alongside their stargazing activities.
Add a splash of color to your desert getaway when you book this vibrant bungalow located just five miles from Joshua Tree National Park. You can get cozy around the backyard fire pit before and after your Milky Way adventure.
Located in: Marion County, AR
As the very first National River in the U.S., the Buffalo River received a one-of-a-kind International Dark Sky Park designation in 2019. A lush watering hole for outdoorsy travelers and locals alike, this scenic spot winds through Northern Arkansas and has misty coves, stunning cliff faces, and peaceful waterfalls.
Twinkling constellations rise over the trees to give the Buffalo National River true storybook status at night. To celebrate the area’s impressive dark skies, the National Parks Service (NPS) offers a number of educational ranger-led programs. They also team up with local astrological societies to host star parties throughout the year.
This quiet hideaway in Flippin, Arkansas provides an ideal home base for a more remote retreat. Rolling acreage right outside your door means little light pollution, so you’ll be able to enjoy sweeping views of the Ozarks and the skies above right from your spacious deck.
While exploring dark sky sites is most of the fun, having a comfy and convenient homebase could make or break your vacation. Our Rest Easy Promise helps you stay in the moment and travel without surprises (except for the occasional shooting star!).
If stargazing is only the start of your bucket list adventures, be sure to check out our other travel blogs that’ll give you all sorts of vacation-planning ideas. From the best small towns in America and family road trip ideas to our favorite hygge cabins and renowned wine regions, an abundance of memorable getaways await.