5 of the best places for stargazing in the USA

The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) recognises places around the world where the night sky is preserved and protected from light pollution. These make for some of the best stargazing spots in the world. Here, we’ve collected some IDA-certified parks, guaranteed to offer the best places for stargazing in the USA.

One of Utah’s claims to fame is the Natural Bridges National Monument – the world’s first International Dark Sky Park, designated in 2007. Come sundown, the sky commands attention – with little to no light pollution it’s one of the darkest parks in the southern United States, perfect for stargazing.

If you're planning to visit during the summer, make sure you check out one of the park’s ranger-led stargazing programmes to get the full experience. Hiring a car is also a great way to make unforgettable memories on your own terms, watch the Milky Way light up the sky as you enjoy your own company.

Big Bend National Park is the largest protected area of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States, along the Rio Grande River. Located on the border of western Texas and the Mexican state of Chihuahua, Big Bend has some of the darkest skies in North America.

In fact, the park has less light pollution than any other national park in the lower 48 states. Not to mention, the vantage points are nothing short of breathtaking along the way – from Maverick Junction to Rio Grande Overlook, you’ll really see some outstanding views here. The national park is also one of the biggest in the country making it a great option for those wanting to avoid crowds.

The Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was designated the International Dark Sky Park status in 2013. Here, you’ll find the densest concentration of Chacoan ruins – remnants of an ancestral Pueblo culture – in the Southwest. 

In addition to preserving its archaeological wonders, the park supports the Chaco's Night Sky Program, which combines the astronomy practices of the Chacoan people with other modern approaches. Just make sure you pick the perfect time to visit, as the desert conditions can be sweltering in the summer months.

Cherry Springs State Park sits 700 metres above sea level within the largest undeveloped part of Pennsylvania's Susquehannock State Forest. The park – which is one of the earliest certified International Dark Sky Parks – is open year-round and usually has between 60 and 85 nights when stargazing conditions are ideal. 

The best vantage point is the Astronomy Field, which offers unobstructed 360º views. From here, you might be able to spot celestial objects such as the Milky Way, planets, meteors and meteor showers. Talk about a view.

Big Cypress National Preserve is famous for its biodiversity and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Florida’s black bears and panthers. 

This preserve’s proximity to Miami, Naples and Fort Myers plays an important role in protecting the region's natural habitats from development. This is because it provides a buffer that safeguards both wildlife and the surrounding ecosystem. For the best stargazing spots, go to the heart of the reserve – you might even catch the Milky Way illuminating the sky.

These parks offer outstanding stargazing opportunities, boasting views that stretch far beyond our planet. So whether you visit Cherry Springs State Park for 360º views or Big Bend National Park for its clear, inky skies – be assured that these are some of the best places for stargazing in the USA. Which night sky will you admire next?