For centuries, humans have looked up at the night sky with wonder, and today, that
fascination with the cosmos is stronger than ever. Across the United States, there
are numerous places where you can delve into the mysteries of the universe, from
world-class observatories to interactive space museums.
These 25 destinations offer out-of-this-world experiences that will expand your
understanding of space and astronomy.
Kennedy Space Center – Cape Canaveral, Florida
Walk in the footsteps of astronauts at NASA’s launch headquarters. You can touch a
moon rock, see the massive Saturn V rocket, and even experience a simulated
shuttle launch.
Don’t miss the chance to meet a real astronaut during your visit!
Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles, California
Perched atop the Hollywood Hills, Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of
both the Los Angeles skyline and the cosmos. Check out the planetarium shows,
peer through telescopes, and explore exhibits on the cutting edge of astronomy.
On clear nights, you might even spot the Hollywood Sign under a blanket of stars.
National Air and Space Museum – Washington, D.C.
Part of the Smithsonian Institution, this museum houses the world’s largest collection
of aviation and space artifacts. From the Wright brothers’ first airplane to the Apollo
11 command module, you’ll find a treasure trove of cosmic history.
Don’t forget to catch an IMAX movie at the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater!
McDonald Observatory – Fort Davis, Texas
Nestled in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, McDonald Observatory offers some
of the darkest skies in the continental U.S. Attend a ‘Star Party’ to gaze through
powerful telescopes or take a daytime tour of the massive research instruments.
The views of the Milky Way here are truly breathtaking.
Adler Planetarium – Chicago, Illinois
America’s first planetarium continues to inspire wonder with its immersive sky shows
and interactive exhibits. Step aboard a simulated space mission or explore the
evolution of the universe in the ‘Cosmic Wonder’ exhibition.
The lakefront views of Chicago’s skyline aren’t too shabby either!
Very Large Array – Socorro, New Mexico
Ever seen those massive radio telescopes in sci-fi movies? They’re real, and you
can visit them! The VLA’s 27 giant antennas work together to observe the invisible
radio universe.
Take a self-guided tour or join a more in-depth guided experience to learn about radio astronomy.
U.S. Space & Rocket Center – Huntsville, Alabama
Home to Space Camp, this center showcases Huntsville’s role in the space program.
Climb aboard a full-scale space shuttle model, experience 4Gs in the G-Force
Simulator, and see the mighty Saturn V rocket up close.
Who knows? You might be inspired to sign up for Space Camp yourself!
Hayden Planetarium – New York City, New York
Part of the American Museum of Natural History, the Hayden Planetarium offers a
journey from Earth to the edge of the observable universe. The Space Theater’s
state-of-the-art projection system will make you feel like you’re flying through space.
Don’t miss the Big Bang presentation narrated by Liam Neeson!
Lowell Observatory – Flagstaff, Arizona
Where Pluto was discovered, Lowell Observatory continues to be a leader in
astronomical research. Join evening stargazing sessions, tour the facility that helped
map the moon for Apollo missions, and peer through the same telescope that first
spotted Pluto.
The thin air and dark skies of Flagstaff make for exceptional viewing conditions.
Mauna Kea Observatories – Big Island, Hawaii
At 13,803 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea hosts some of the world’s most powerful
telescopes. While the summit is reserved for research, the Visitor Information Station
at 9,200 feet offers stargazing programs and stunning sunset views.
Just remember to bring warm clothes – it gets chilly up there!
Palomar Observatory – San Diego County, California
Home to the famous 200-inch Hale Telescope, Palomar Observatory offers a
glimpse into the golden age of astronomy. Take a guided tour to learn about the
observatory’s history and ongoing research.
The drive up the mountain is an adventure in itself!
Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, California
Chabot offers hands-on exhibits and three powerful telescopes open for public
viewing. Don’t miss the chance to look through ‘Rachel,’ the center’s 20-inch refractor
telescope built in 1914.
The Oakland Hills location provides great views of the Bay Area, too.
National Radio Astronomy Observatory – Green Bank, West
Virginia
Welcome to the National Quiet Zone! This massive radio telescope facility requires
minimal electromagnetic interference, so you’ll need to turn off your cell phone.
Take a tour to see the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope and learn about the
search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
Fernbank Science Center – Atlanta, Georgia
Fernbank’s planetarium and observatory bring the wonders of space to Georgia’s
capital. Attend a planetarium show, then head to the observatory to peer through the
36-inch Cassegrain reflector telescope.
It’s Atlanta’s window to the universe!
Mt. Wilson Observatory – Los Angeles County, California
Where Edwin Hubble discovered the expansion of the universe, Mt. Wilson
continues to inspire. Take a weekend guided tour or attend one of the public viewing
nights to look through the historic 60-inch telescope.
The views of Los Angeles from up here are stellar, too!
Christa McAuliffe Center – Framingham, Massachusetts
Named after the teacher-astronaut who perished in the Challenger disaster, this
center carries on her mission of education. Experience a simulated space mission in
the Challenger Learning Center, or catch a show in the planetarium.
It’s an inspiring tribute to a space pioneer.
Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium – Tucson, Arizona
Located on the University of Arizona campus, Flandrau offers a mix of natural
science and space exhibits. Catch a planetarium show, then head to the observatory
for some stargazing.
Don’t miss the mineral collection – it’s one of the best in the country!
Space Center Houston – Houston, Texas
As the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, this is where you can
geek out on space exploration. Tour the astronaut training facility, touch a moon
rock, and see Mission Control.
The Level 9 Tour offers unprecedented behind-the- scenes access to NASA.
Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles, California
Perched atop the Hollywood Hills, Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of
both the Los Angeles skyline and the cosmos. Check out the planetarium shows,
peer through telescopes, and explore exhibits on the cutting edge of astronomy.
On clear nights, you might even spot the Hollywood Sign under a blanket of stars.
SETI Institute – Mountain View, California
While not typically open to the public, the SETI Institute occasionally offers tours and
public lectures. Learn about the search for extraterrestrial intelligence from the
scientists searching.
Who knows? You might be there when they make first contact!
Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute – Rosman, North
Carolina
This former NASA tracking station now serves as a science education center. Tour
the massive radio telescopes, participate in educational programs, or attend an
‘Evening at PARI’ event for some serious stargazing.
The remote location in Pisgah National Forest ensures dark skies.
Onizuka Center for International Astronomy – Hilo, Hawaii
Located on Mauna Kea, this visitor information station offers nightly stargazing
programs. At 9,200 feet, you’re above many of the clouds, providing exceptional
viewing conditions.
The sunset views from there are out of this world! Yerkes Observatory – Williams Bay, Wisconsin
Yerkes Observatory – Williams Bay, Wisconsin
Home to the world’s largest refracting telescope, Yerkes is a gem of astronomical
history. While currently closed for renovations, it’s worth keeping an eye on for future
reopening.
The grounds alone, designed by the same landscape architect as Central Park, are worth a visit.
Clark Planetarium – Salt Lake City, Utah
With its massive dome theater and interactive exhibits, Clark Planetarium makes
space science accessible to all ages. Don’t miss the Hansen Dome Theatre shows
or the chance to touch authentic Moon and Mars rocks.
It’s a stellar addition to any Salt Lake City itinerary!
Goldendale Observatory State Park – Goldendale, Washington
This state park observatory offers some of the darkest skies in the western U.S. Join
a guided program to peer through the 24.5-inch reflector telescope, or bring your
equipment for some personal stargazing.
The views of Mt. Adams and Mt. Hood aren’t bad either!
Plan Your Space Adventure
From the launch pads of Cape Canaveral to the mountain observatories of Hawaii,
these destinations offer a chance to expand your cosmic horizons.
Whether you’re watching a rocket launch, peering through a powerful telescope, or walking through a simulated Mars colony, each of these places provides a unique window into the wonders of space and astronomy.