Stargazing in Massachusetts 2024
Cape Cod and other scenic areas offer decent stargazing during the warm season
Best time: all year round (best June–October)
If you plan to go stargazing in New England, it's essential to get away from big cities like Boston, MA, or Providence, RI. Luckily, there are a few nature preserves in Massachusetts where the skies are still dark and starry.
The best time to go stargazing in Massachusetts is summer. July and August are the least rainy months, so you can count on clear skies. June, September, and October also offer decent visibility, and it's still not too cold to spend the night outdoors.
Best stargazing spots
Most astronomy enthusiasts in Massachusetts would agree that the premier stargazing area in the state is Wachusett Mountain State Reservation, located within one hour drive from Boston, in the central part of the state. Nearby Petersham State Forest is another excellent location for nighttime photography. Both spots have very little light pollution.
Cape Cod is not just the favorite summer playground for Massachusetts residents, its beautiful beaches also attract many amateur astronomers due to the exceptionally starry night sky. Located within about one-hour drive from Boston, the Cape Cod National Seashore is one of the darkest areas in the state. Chatham, Newcomb Hollow Beach, Marconi Beach, and Hardings Beach are especially popular with visitors.
Cape Neddick, located across the border in Maine, within 1 hour 15 minutes drive from Boston, is another excellent stargazing location. It features the famous lighthouse Cape Neddick Light. The lighthouse looks very picturesque in nighttime photos. Overall, there are plenty of opportunities for dark skies due to low light pollution in the area.
In about 1.5 hours drive from Boston, astronomy enthusiasts can reach Frosty Drew Observatory & Sky Theatre near the Rhode Island and Connecticut borders. The observatory hosts regular stargazing events on Fridays, allowing visitors to view space objects through powerful telescopes.
