For most people, Las Vegas isn't about stargazing—people go there to spend time in casinos and at burlesque shows. But besides all these loud attractions, the city and its surroundings can also offer relaxing getaways and sky-watching spots. This article is about Las Vegas' major stargazing spots. But first, let's see when is the best time to visit this casino mecca.
When to go stargazing in Las Vegas and nearby
It's no secret that Las Vegas is surrounded by deserts. This location paves the way for unobstructed stargazing places all around the city. And the best part is that the sky above Nevada is clear pretty much every night, regardless of the season. This fact means that you can plan your sky-watching trip at any time of the year. But where should you go?
Clark County
Nevada's Clark County has several destinations for embarking on your astrology adventure. Here they are:
Desert Bloom Park
During the day, Desert Bloom Park offers multiple attractions to engage in, including walking trails, picnic spots, and playgrounds. But during the night, it turns into a terrific stargazing destination. The thing is that it is quite isolated from the city center, which creates perfect conditions for watching beautiful constellations without any obstructions.
Sunrise Mountain
Sunrise Mountain is only 3.3 mi (5.3 km) away from Las Vegas. Clearly, you'll have to hike a bit to get to the top, but the result will be well worth it. The mount offers an elevation of more than 3,000 ft (900 m), meaning you can get a breathtaking view from its peak.
Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary
This spot is a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life. The sanctuary serves as a shelter for rescued birds, so this place is all about peace and quietness. What else do you need to watch the stars?
Exploration Peak Park
As you can tell, mountains and other elevations are usually the best spots to watch the night sky, and Exploration Peak Park is no exception. Almost 3,000 ft (900 m) high, it offers not only a bunch of playgrounds, trails, and other play areas, but also a terrific view from the top. This way, you can combine daytime kids' leisure with your stargazing plans during the night.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Last but not least. Although this canyon isn't exactly within the Las Vegas area, it makes for one of the finest stargazing destinations in Nevada. Located in the Mojave Desert and fenced by mountains, it offers so much room for you to watch the stars.
Practical info
When is the best time to go stargazing in Las Vegas?
The city of Las Vegas is known for its year-round clear skies, making it an excellent place to go stargazing at any time. To make sure that stargazers get the most out of their experience, it is essential to pick a clear night. The summer nights can be sweltering, so it may be better to visit during fall or winter for more comfortable viewing temperatures and better visibility. Show more
Where are the best places to go stargazing in Las Vegas?
Las Vegas offers a wide range of locations that provide fantastic views of the stars. Some of the favorite destinations for stargazers include the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Sunrise Mountain, Deseret Bloom Park, Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary, and Exploration Peak Park. These locations offer a serene atmosphere with a stunning view and ideal for those looking for some peace and quiet while looking at the sky above. Show more
What is the elevation of Sunrise Mountain?
Sunrise Mountain boasts an elevation of 3,363 feet (1,025 m). Although it can be a bit of a hike to get to the top, the view is well worth it. The higher elevation offers an unobstructed view of the stars that most locations don't allow. The view from the top provides an outstanding panoramic shot of the surroundings, giving visitors unforgettable memories. Show more
What is the unique feature of Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary?
Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary is a bird rescue haven that provides a unique experience for stargazers. Visitors can enjoy a combination of the soothing sounds of chirping birds and untouched nature while stargazing. It's an excellent place for individuals seeking a peaceful escape from the city life, a chance to reconnect with nature, all while watching the exquisite night sky brighten up with stars. Show more
Is Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area a good spot for stargazing?
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a perfect destination for individuals seeking a bewitching experience while stargazing. It is a bit of a drive from the city center, but the journey is worth it. The park's surroundings, Mountains and Mojave Desert, provide the stargazers with an excellent seat for a view of the starry night sky. Additionally, the serene park atmosphere makes the park a perfect destination for the night sky lovers. Show more
