Featured Image: Milky Way above Glacier National Park - Photo Credit: FloridaStock/Shutterstock
Consider visiting one of these Dark Sky locales as you plot your next celestial adventure
The skies are full of stunning sights, and the year ahead offers the opportunity to take in natural light shows, including the rare daytime spectacular that is a solar eclipse. But whether you’re planning a trip to catch this solar event of the decade, hoping to catch stunning views of the Milky Way, or seeking the serene beauty of an aurora borealis, International Dark Sky Parks offer an ideal retreat far from the hustle and bustle – and away from the light pollution – of a big city.
The United States has dozens of national parks and other protected areas that are designated as International Dark Sky Parks and Sanctuaries. Many offer astronomy programs, where people of all ages can learn more about the celestial wonders on display. So, consider visiting one of these Dark Sky locales as you plot your next celestial adventure.
Dynamic Destinations Offer Prime Solar Eclipse Viewing
Solar eclipse - Photo Credit: kdshutterman/Shutterstock
A total solar eclipse is on the horizon, taking place on April 8, 2024. While the path of totality for this phenomenon stretches from Texas to Maine, those looking to make the most of their viewing should head for Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Fredericksburg. Nestled in a charming enclave on the northwest side of San Antonio in Texas Hill Country, this property is perfectly positioned along the eclipse’s path. Here, in the International Dark Sky Community of Fredericksburg, you’ll find lots to love, with German-inspired architecture and numerous area wineries to enjoy during the day, and major stargazing opportunities come sunset.
On April 8, Dallas, Texas will be the largest city in the direct path of totality and Hilton Anatole is proud to provide a fun event for guests to safely experience the eclipse! The 7-acre Sculpture Garden is the perfect location to relax on the lawn, enjoy a specialty Eclipse cocktail and snacks, put on your complimentary glasses, and watch the eclipse.
Meanwhile, at Hilton Austin, you can attend the Eclipse & Sips Rooftop Viewing Party from 12:30-3:30 pm on April 8. Located on the Rooftop Pool Deck on Floor 8, this event promises a unique perspective of the 2024 total solar eclipse. Indulge in themed cocktails and mocktails like Lunar Lemonade, Solar Sunrise, and Total Eclipse Elixir available for purchase at the pool bar. Complimentary viewing glasses will be provided, ensuring you catch every moment of the rare eclipse. With panoramic views of downtown Austin, the pool deck offers the perfect vantage point for this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event. Don't miss out on this extraordinary rooftop celebration! Event is open to the public.
Cold Weather Locales Put You Front Row for an Aurora Lightshow
Aurora Borealis Over Glacier National Park - Photo Credit: davidmarxphoto/Shutterstock
But the solar eclipse isn’t the only phenomenon worth booking a getaway to enjoy. Many wintertime retreats offer the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring aurora borealis. When it comes to choosing a spot to watch the sky come alive, the remote northern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is ideally situated for this dazzling show. Keweenaw Dark Sky Park juts out into massive Lake Superior and offers sweeping, unimpeded views of scenic landscape. And the park’s secluded northern location makes for some of the best night sky viewing in the United States. Hike the area during temperate climates or snowshoe come winter, with the centrally located Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Houghton serving as your home base for evening sightseeing excursions.
More Dark Sky options abound in Montana, where hugging the Canadian border you’ll find several areas that boast ideal northern lights viewing conditions. Known as “the Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park descends into a pitch black come nightfall, while the nearby Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge is equally obscured from light and offers onsite stargazing programs in collaboration with a local astronomy club. And when it comes time to settle in after an evening full of Big Sky Country explorations, Hampton Inn by Hilton Kalispell offers comfortable accommodations located between both of these luminous nighttime sanctuaries.
Sunny Hotspots by Day Offer Shining Stars Come Nighttime
Milky Way above Joshua Tree - Photo Credit: Robert Loe/Shutterstock
For those seeking sky watching in warmer climates that offer an energetic mix of daytime and nighttime activities all year round, California’s Palm Desert is known for being home to sun-drenched artsy towns, vibrant annual music festivals, and epic outdoor adventure opportunities. The region is also home to Joshua Tree National Park, which features iconic, twisting trees to explore by day and legendary Dark Skies that come alive with the Milky Way and other shining constellations come nighttime. Book a stay at Homewood Suites by Hilton Palm Desert for easy-to-access lodgings convenient to all this eclectic locale has to offer.
A less arid environment where you can soak up a seemingly endless summer can be found along Florida’s southwest coast. Stay at Hilton Naples, just 10 minutes from the white sands of Clam Pass Beach, before heading into the intriguing swamplands found at Big Cypress National Preserve. Marvel at tropical plants and towering cypress trees before the sun sets, then turn your sights skyward to take in planetary alignments and other wonders of the night while enjoying one of the darkest night skies in the eastern United States.
The universe is calling, all you need to do is book the cosmic adventure of a lifetime!
