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DarkSky International certifies places that protect naturally dark night skies. These US parks are among the best-known designated International Dark Sky Parks. Plan around the New Moon for the darkest skies; the Milky Way core is best seen in the evening from roughly spring to early autumn, while winter brings Orion and the Geminids.
The world's first International Dark Sky Park.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗Remote desert park with exceptionally dark skies.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗Vast, dry and dark — and easy to reach from Las Vegas.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗Among the darkest skies in the lower 48; seasonal ranger astronomy programs.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗International Dark Sky Park; hosts an annual star party.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗International Dark Sky Park known for its astronomy programs.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗The most accessible dark-sky park for Southern California.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗The East Coast's best-known dark-sky site.
Map ↗ · Tours nearby ↗Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from bookings made through this map, at no extra cost to you.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from bookings made through this map, at no extra cost to you.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from bookings made through this map, at no extra cost to you.
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from tickets and tours booked through these GetYourGuide links, at no extra cost to you.
A park certified by DarkSky International for exceptional starry skies and for protecting them with good lighting practices.
Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah.
Around the New Moon on a clear night, after astronomical twilight ends. Summer evenings are best for the Milky Way core.
Geminids Meteor Shower — December peak dates 2026–2028 · Best places to see the Geminids 2026 near major US cities
Sources: darksky.org. "Computed" values were calculated with Astronomy Engine and may differ by a few seconds from official predictions. Always confirm before you travel.