Whenever someone thinks of Arizona it is easy to picture in your mind the giant desert landscape that takes up the central and southern portions of the state. Arizona is a hot environment, and the desert is a the best visual representation of that. However, not all of Arizona is a dry desert landscape. As you head north you will find plenty of areas surrounded by lush forest areas such as Flagstaff. This northern Arizona community is a great spot to visit to beat the heat and enjoy some incredible outdoor experiences. Flagstaff is also considered to be a dark sky city making sure that light pollution does not overtake the night sky. Locals know that the best spot to go stargazing is over at Lowell Observatory. Take a look at what you need to know during your next trip to Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff:

Ticket to the Universe

Observatories are incredible places that let you peak up into the night sky and peer into the universe that surrounds us. Lowell Observatory is no different and is a classic venue here in Flagstaff that is perfect for those wanting to go stargazing during your stay. A visit to the Lowell Observatory can be completed as early as noon during the week.

Lowell Observatory opens for general admission access that lets you enjoy tours of the facility. Get a firsthand look into the incredible equipment that the observatory uses during daylight hours. You might think there is little to see during the day at an observatory, but you will be delighted to know that is not true. Head over to the Giovale Open Deck Observatory where you can get a close look at the sun with the six state-of-the-art telescopes. Solar viewing is a safe way to see the sun that you otherwise would not be able to do.

You can also learn all about the universe by visiting the Rotunda Museum that is featured here at Lowell Observatory. Self-guided tours are available during select hours of the week allowing you to peek inside at the incredible exhibits. Unique artifacts and noteworthy items are on display such as Percival Lowell’s first telescope and an interactive OmniGlobe. The famous Saturn Lamp is suspended from the dome ceiling that is a stain glass light fixture created by Los Angeles Light Company back in 1918. You will learn all about the observatory from these exhibits.

Go Stargazing

Of course, the biggest draw to visiting any observatory is the chance to engage in stargazing. Looking up into the night sky will mesmerize you in more than one way. General admission into the Lowell Observatory is also good for the evening for stargazing. The observation deck will still feature the six state-of-the-art telescopes that will help you peer into the sky. Lowell Observatory will always post the weather to ensure you visit on a clear night that avoids any cloudy weather. You will be able to see distant planets, galaxies, and gas clouds from the 125-year-old 24-inch Clark Refractor that is still in operation. Lowell Observatory is famous for Clyde Tombaugh first discovering Pluto from here back in 1930. This is your ticket into the universe.

Premium Access

If you are looking for a premium experience here at Lowell Observatory you can purchase a premium access pass. This 75-minute experience lets you have the exclusive opportunity to experience Lowell Observatory’s newest telescope, the 24-inch Dyer Telescope. This is a private experience that can fit up to 10 individuals in your party to participate in. Staff will be on hand to point you in the right direction of distant celestial objects that you will be able to see clearly. Staff will also be able to provide you with all of the incredible knowledge about our solar system making this a must-see experience during your visit!

Special Courses and Events

Visitors can also join Lowell Observatory for unique courses that take place throughout the year. The Astrophotography course is an intensive course to help you snap the perfect pictures of celestial objects through the telescopes. You will even be given digital copies of your images and data that you gather! You can also book an LDT excursion that takes you behind the scenes in how the massive 4.3-meter telescopes are maintained throughout the year. Lowell Observatory also hosts a variety of tours and talks during all hours of the day. Don’t miss out on this stunning attraction found only in Flagstaff.

Get Ready for Your Own Flagstaff Adventure

Book a stay in one of our vacation rentals here in the area to see Flagstaff for yourself. Lowell Observatory is just one of many unique attractions that you will find in the area.