Visit the Starriest Night Sky Places in the World

Summer vacation season is nearly upon us. This year, instead of the usual tourist hot spots like Disney World, Paris, Vegas, or New York, why not leave the bright lights and big cities behind and head for an official Dark Sky location?

More than 200 locations around the world have been designated “dark sky places” by Dark Sky International. The organization certifies communities, parks, and protected areas in 22 countries that preserve dark skies – brilliantly star-filled nighttime displays -- unspoiled by artificial light pollution, made possible by responsible lighting policies and public education.

An official Dark Sky Place is land possessing an exceptional quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, or educational value, its cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment.

Three types of Dark Sky Places

There are three types of Dark Sky Places to consider visiting: Dark Sky Parks, Reserves, and Sanctuaries. Each location is a haven for stargazers, offering crystal-clear views of the cosmos that are impossible to see in the glare of urban life.

A Dark Sky Park may be publicly or privately owned land, provided that the landowner(s) consent to the right of permanent, ongoing public access to specific areas included in the Dark Sky Park designation.

A Dark Sky Reserve is a land area formed through a partnership of multiple land managers who have recognized the value of the natural nighttime environment through regulations and long-term planning.

A Dark Sky Sanctuary is typically situated in a very remote location with few (if any) nearby threats to the quality of its dark night skies.

Dark Sky International also recognizes specific towns and cities that promote responsible lighting and dark sky stewardship and set good examples for surrounding communities.

Starriest Skies in the U.S.

There are 155 Dark Sky Places in the U.S., notably Big Bend National Park (Texas), Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona), and Death Valley National Park (California), North Maine Woods (Maine), Antelope Island State Park (Utah), Fry Family Park (Ohio), Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge (Montana), and Meritt Reservoir State Recreation Area (Nebraska), to name just a few.

Find a Dark Sky Place to Visit

Use the Locator Map to find a Dark Sky Place to visit. Click into individual locations on the map to get specific addresses, weather conditions, and camping or lodging availability nearby.

Dark Sky Week, 2025

International Dark Sky Week takes place April 21-28 this year. This global celebration is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of natural darkness and the growing threat of light pollution. Get information about it on the event page, along with ways you can participate in the movement.

Photo: Monument Valley (Utah), by Juan López Hoyos. People’s Choice Award winner in the 2023 Dark Sky International Capture the Dark photo contest.

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