I'll be completely honest: when I started this site, I had big plans to create stargazing guides for every big city in the U.S., as well as many of the smaller ones. My hope was that getting more people out to see the night sky would help inspire us to better protect the darkness and our planet. Through my research, I soon learned that there are some parts of the country where – again, complete frankness – the stargazing just kind of sucks....

For most people, a trip to Hawaii means a vacation full of beaches and sunshine. For space enthusiasts among us, it also means a chance to kick back, relax, and enjoy some leisurely stargazing, with maybe a palm tree or two in the foreground...

Tucson, Arizona is arguably the best city for stargazing in the United States – if not the world. Home to the International Dark-Sky Association (STG founder Valerie is a proud member!), the city of Tucson has taken large and bold steps to reduce light pollution, and it is one of the best mid-sized cities where you can stargaze right within the city...

The Western U.S. might get all the glory – and all the certifications – for its dark sky destinations, but most of us don't live in those remote, rural areas where the stars shine so brightly. In fact, an estimated 37% of Americans live in the South, so a good number of folks are trying to see the stars in that part of the country...

Not far from the center of the United States, you can't deny that Kansas City is smack dab in the heart of America's Heartland. Known for its incredible barbecue, top-tier sports teams, and public art – being home to more fountains than Rome, it's nicknamed the City of Fountains – Kansas City, Missouri, and neighboring Kansas City, Kansas are great destinations, though often overlooked...

When most people think of Iowa, they might not know anything at all – after all, Iowa is one of the common "flyover" states. For those of us who know better and have been to the Hawkeye State, we can think fondly of Iowa's verdant rolling hills, passionate sports fans, and dark starry skies...

Memphis is a city known for many things: great sports, great music, great food, and great sunset views across the Mississippi each evening. I've been fortunate to visit Memphis several times due to friends living in Bluff City, but usually confine myself to the city limits and enjoy all that Memphis has to offer – rather than focusing on my love of astronomy. Given all the neon on Beale Street and other city lights, you might wonder: can you go stargazing in Memphis...

New Orleans is known for many things -- from jazz to delicious food to a raucous party held every year in February (hint: you've probably heard of it: Mardi Gras!) -- but stargazing is generally not high on the list. While there are some spots to go stargazing in New Orleans, you won't find as many options as other cities we've provided stargazing guides for...

San Francisco draws people from around the world. A city of opportunity and possibility, it’s one of the most powerful economies in the U.S. – and a tech hub for the world. During the daytime, the Bay Area buzzes with energy and innovation; at night, the stars shine overhead, though it’s hard to see them through the light pollution. That’s why you need to search to find a great place for stargazing in San Francisco. Having called San Francisco home for over three years, I know how much light pollution affects your stargazing prospects in the Bay Area. If you’re in the mood for stargazing, here’s everything you need to…

At 5,280ft above sea level, Denver has an obvious advantage when it comes to stargazing: extra elevation means clearer night skies! The capital of Colorado has other advantages that make it a stellar stargazing destination: wild mountains to the west; sweeping plains to the east; and passionate locals who protect and love the outdoors...