Stargazing in Flagstaff, AZ 2023-2024

Flagstaff—surrounded by mountains, a desert, and ponderosa pine forests—was classified as the world's first International Dark Sky City in 2001. This city works hard to preserve the night sky and minimize light pollution. And this, in turn, makes Flagstaff one of the top places for stargazing in Arizona and the USA. You can stargaze there all year round; however, the best time for stargazing is from April to July. Check out this article if you want to visit Flagstaff and wonder which places are the best to enjoy the night sky. We've prepared something really special for you.

Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory is a special place where every night (approximately at 9 pm), local astronomers host a popular event called Cosmic Questions. They answer different questions from people interested in astronomy and let the visitors see some of the constellations through the telescopes. The ticket price ranges from $12 (per kid) to $22 (per adult). Being the epicenter of Flagstaff's stargazing community, Lowell Observatory also offers different nighttime tours throughout the year. You can get more information on their official website in the External Resources section below.

Sunset Crater Volcano Park

An intriguing name, isn't it? Sunset Crater Volcano Park is located 14 mi (22.5 km) away from the Flagstaff Mall on Highway 89. It features lots of random and amazing spots for stargazing. Just drive around the area and park your car wherever you feel would be perfect for watching the night sky. Also, there are plenty of forest roads that branch off and leave Sunset Crater Volcano Park, which means you can camp there for a night or two. Stargazers say this park is a top-notch spot to take your photography starscapes of the Milky Way. But shhh, don't tell anyone about this spot—it's a secret.

Buffalo Park

Buffalo Park is located right on McMillan Mesa in Flagstaff. It's a 215 acre zone with an animal-viewing park, buffalo, and you guessed it, plenty of stargazing spots. Every September, the park hosts the Annual Star Party—a three-day event where local photographers and stargazers get together to celebrate the night sky. You will find a special calendar in the External Resources below with a schedule of upcoming events.