The International Dark-Sky Association maintains a map of certified parks and places so you can plan your next trip around the stars. These are a half-dozen favorites picks to help you start planning your stargazing getaway.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Located in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, and officially became an International Dark Sky Park in 2019. Also, has a UFO Watchtower just a few miles down the road. nps.gov/grsa
Moab, Utah
City dedicated to preserving their dark sky resources. Several of the public parks in the area are International Dark Sky Certified, including Dead Horse Point State Park and Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. discovermoab.com
Staunton River State Park, Virginia
Just a couple hundred miles south of the nation’s capital lies Staunton River State Park, one of the few International Dark Sky certified locations in the eastern U.S. The park is also known for hosting an annual spring star party. dcr.virginia.gov
Flagstaff, Arizona
The very first place in the world to be certified by the International Dark Skies Association. Be sure to visit the Lowell Observatory. flagstaffdarkskies.org
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Travel to the nearest town to Big Bend National Park (Terlingua is just a 15-minute drive to the entrance) and take in the Milky Way. Head a few hours east to Big Bend Ranch State Park, also a certified Dark Sky park, encompassing nearly 300,000 acres of wilderness across volcanic landscapes to the Mexican border. You will definitely be able to see some epic stars. visitbigbend.com
Glacier National Park, Montana
Climate change is shrinking the namesake glaciers of this national park. Rangers lead star parties and programs at park visitor centers. You can also see the aurora at Glacier; your best bet is to visit in winter (or late fall/early spring). Take the time to cross into Canada to see more stars at Waterton Lakes National Park. glacier.org