Stargazing in the First Dark Sky City

Travel

Jun 14

We were all thrilled to check out the view through the telescopes!

Flagstaff has quickly become one of our favorite Arizona cities. We have been there three times in the last year, which for us, is a lot. During each visit we have explored a bit more and have added new things to each trip. With our most recent stay, we toured the Lowell Observatory at Northern Arizona University. This is now my top suggestion for what to do while visiting this mountain town.

I have been intrigued that Flagstaff became the first international Dark Sky City in 2001. A Dark Sky City must show dedication to the preservation of the night sky with the support of the community (ex. outdoor lighting ordinances). It was finally time to get a closer look at the night sky during a visit to the well known observatory.

Amazing views at the Giovale Open Deck Observatory

I actually kept this part of our trip as a secret from our kids, because I mean who doesn’t love a fun surprise. We had a day of travel and exploring prior to our night tour and they were thrilled to hear about our evening plans. This was a fun way to spend an evening that was full of history and stunning views.

We took the “Expanding Universe Guided Tour'“ which is 120 minutes in length. The tour guide was a grad student at Northern Arizona University and was extremely knowledgable. The tour was geared towards adults, but kept my kids engaged the entire time. Stops on the tour included viewing two historic telescopes, a laser-guided constellation tour and the opportunity to look out each of the telescopes on the Giovale Open Deck Observatory.

What You Need to Know

Tickets for the guided tours become available two weeks in advance. I suggest booking as soon as your date becomes available, since tour groups are limited to 10 people (due to COVID-19 restrictions).
Tickets range in price based on the tour but start as low as $20 for a child and $34 for adults.
Check the weather prior to your tour, you might want to take a light jacket with you.
Day tours are available, but I honestly think you’ll get the most out of the evening tour that includes stargazing.
Arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour. This will give you time to check-in and check out the Lowell Observatory store to pick up a souvenir.
If you are taking kids, choose a tour that works for their schedule. The tours are informative, allow for walking around and viewing the stars and constellations through high tech telescopes.

I must say this was one of the coolest ways to spend a Saturday night. If you enjoy stargazing at all, then this is a must-do during your next visit to Flagstaff.

Have you visited an observatory?