10 Best Stargazing Vacation Spots in the U.S.
Find Your Next Stargazing Getaway
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape that connects you with nature and the cosmos, a stargazing vacation is hard to beat. Whether you’re identifying constellations, photographing the Milky Way, or simply relaxing beneath a blanket of stars, the right destination can make all the difference. Stay in a vacation home designed for skywatching and enjoy front-row views of the universe, no telescope required.
What Makes a Vacation Rental Ideal for Stargazing
The best stargazing rentals share a few key features. They’re typically located far from city lights to reduce light pollution, often at higher elevations or in clear, dry climates. Outdoor living spaces such as decks, firepits, or hot tubs make for cozy evenings under the stars. Many are also near official Dark Sky Parks or offer guided astronomy experiences for unforgettable nights.
1. Joshua Tree, California
With its dramatic desert landscape and famously clear skies, Joshua Tree is one of the best stargazing destinations in the U.S. The national park’s lack of light pollution makes it easy to see the Milky Way and countless constellations. Choose a desert home with a rooftop deck, hammock, or firepit to soak in the view.
2. Big Sky, Montana
True to its name, Big Sky offers vast, open horizons perfect for spotting stars, satellites, and meteor showers. Nestled high in the mountains, this peaceful destination is ideal for quiet nights spent soaking in a private hot tub beneath the stars.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rock landscape glows by day and dazzles at night. As a certified Dark Sky Community, the town is committed to preserving its clear skies. Stargazing tours and night hikes are popular, while many rentals feature rooftop patios and expansive desert views.
4. Bend, Oregon
Perched on the edge of Oregon’s high desert, Bend offers wide-open skies and easy access to designated stargazing spots. Stay in a home with a firepit or deck and enjoy evenings filled with shooting stars and the peaceful sound of nature.
5. Girdwood, Alaska
Surrounded by glaciers and mountains, Girdwood provides some of the darkest skies in North America. Visit in winter for the best chance to see the northern lights dancing above the snow. Cozy cabins with hot tubs and large windows make for magical nights.
6. Outer Banks, North Carolina
By day, enjoy the Atlantic coastline, and by night, experience wide-open skies with minimal light pollution. Along Cape Hatteras, you can relax on the beach and watch stars shimmer over the waves. Beachfront homes with decks or private dunes are ideal for night sky viewing.
7. Taos, New Mexico
This high desert town combines artistic energy with serene landscapes and brilliant night skies. Rentals here often feature adobe architecture and private courtyards where you can sit back and watch the stars rise above the desert horizon.
8. Moab, Utah
With Arches and Canyonlands National Parks nearby, Moab is a stargazer’s paradise. Both parks are designated International Dark Sky Parks, offering crystal-clear night views. Stay in a desert home with a patio or firepit and enjoy the stars framed by iconic red rock formations.
9. Volcano, Hawaii
On the Big Island, Volcano offers a unique stargazing experience surrounded by lush rainforest and volcanic terrain. The area’s clear skies and quiet atmosphere make it an excellent alternative to Mauna Kea. Look for a cozy cottage with a lanai for peaceful evenings under the stars.
10. Lake Chelan, Washington
This scenic lake town combines mountain views and clear skies for a tranquil night sky retreat. Relax on a deck overlooking the water as constellations reflect on the lake’s surface. The combination of natural beauty and serenity makes Lake Chelan an underrated gem for stargazers.
Ready to experience these destinations for yourself?
Discover where comfort meets adventure with Rent Live Play. Explore our curated collection of vacation rentals designed for travelers who want to relax, explore, and truly live wherever they go. Visit RentLivePlay.com to find your next stay.
