10 Destinations With Out-of-This-World Stargazing Experiences
Sunny Chanel
Sunny Chanel
Sunny Chanel is a freelance writer as well as the founder of the whimsical site Wonder and Company. When this proud San Franciscan isn't writing, working on her fixer-upper or doing crafts, she is playing dress up with daughter and planning her next trip to Disneyland.
You can see the night sky anywhere in the world, but there are some places that make stargazing a particularly spectacular affair. Thank your lucky stars, for we have 10 of them right here. Not only do these locations have clear skies, but they also offer all sorts of extraordinary experiences for unforgettable astronomical moments, from celestial weddings to star-soaked cocktails to beachy feasts.
Sip on Cocktails Under the Cosmos at Mountain Shadows in Paradise Valley, AZ. Enjoy celestial cocktails at this chic resort nestled in the Arizona desert. With the awe-inspiring backdrop of the stunning Camelback Mountain, guests are invited to indulge in an astrology-themed reception on their rooftop deck. Included in the $45 ticket are two drinks, passed hors d’oeuvres, and plenty of stars to view via their state-of-the-art telescope. There's even an expert astronomer on hand to help navigate the sky. (Photo via Mountain Shadows)
Perfect your downward dog by starlight at Mountain Shadows' Moonlight Yoga. In addition to their astrology-themed cocktail events, Mountain Shadows offers yoga after sundown. Once they're done twisting, stretching, and relaxing, participants enjoy a glass of wine — the perfect ending to the exercise. (Photo via Mountain Shadows)
Glamp under the stars at Under Canvas in national parks nationwide. Generally when you imagine sleeping under the stars, you picture an uncomfortable mat thrown over the dirt. Under Canvas isn't that kind of camping. Their luxury campsites — with locations in Tucson, Zion, Great Smoky Mountains, the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, and Yellowstone — feature Casper beds, luxe linens, and bathrooms. For the full experience, be sure to book a Stargazer tent, which has a special sky-viewing window located strategically over the bed. (Photo via Under Canvas)
Head to an International Dark Sky Place to see those stars really glow in Utah. If you live anywhere near a city, you know that all that pesky light pollution makes stargazing from home a murky affair. To get your starry glow on, head to Utah, which offers nearly a dozen locations awarded an International Dark Sky Place designation — including two national parks, four state parks, and four national monuments, as well as one International Dark Sky Community. They'll be the perfect places to photograph the beauty of the night sky. (Photo via Visit Utah)
Say “I do” under the stars at the Hyatt Regency Maui, HI. For over 20 years, the Hyatt Regency Maui has offered their stellar Tour of the Stars from the rooftop of their popular hotel. Astronomer Eddie Mahoney is on hand to assist with stargazing through their two Celestron telescopes. For those who want to exchange their vows under the stars, the Hyatt Regency Maui recently introduced their Maui'd Under the Stars wedding package. (Photo via Hyatt Regency Maui)
Celebrate the full moon with a feast at The Mulia Bali, Indonesia. Each month, the swanky Mulia & Mulia Villas honor the full moon with their “La La Lune” seven-course dinner. The culinary experience takes place on the gorgeous white sand beach of Nusa Dua alongside Mulia Bali’s stunning pier. (Photo via Mulia Bali)
Spot the stars from the Four Seasons at Jackson Hole, WY. Head out with the Four Season’s resident astronomer for a prime star-viewing location in Grand Teton National Park. They’ll bring along wine, cheese, desserts, and chairs so you can enjoy the show in luxury. (Photo via Four Seasons)
Sleep in a bubble and stare at the stars at Campera Hotel Burbuja in Baja, Mexico. Located in the Valle de Guadalupe wine region, this eco-friendly resort offers an out-of-the-world way to experience the night sky. Their transparent, bubble-shaped tents give guests unobstructed, 360-degree views of the stars. (Photo via Campera Hotel Burbuja)
See what's "Written in the Stars" at L’Auberge de Sedona, AZ. Luxury resort L’Auberge de Sedona has created a special package — Written in the Stars — for those who adore the night sky. Along with details like star-shaped cookies and dining under the stars at their restaurant Cress on Oak Creek, guests can engage in stargazing sessions, Star Bathing (similar to their Forest Bathing session), and partake in their Mindful Moon Meditation Series, a guided journey of healing session offered on each night of a full moon. (Photo via L’Auberge de Sedona)
Go on a star tour at The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, CA. During the summer, guests of the Ritz in Lake Tahoe have the opportunity to go on an awe-inspiring and educational tour of the night sky with star guide and poet Tony Berendsen. This wonder-filled experience is especially good for kids! (Photo via The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe)
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Sunny Chanel
Sunny Chanel is a freelance writer as well as the founder of the whimsical site Wonder and Company. When this proud San Franciscan isn't writing, working on her fixer-upper or doing crafts, she is playing dress up with daughter and planning her next trip to Disneyland.