A Dark Sky Park is a section of land with a notable nocturnal environment ideal for stargazing, as determined by the International Dark Sky Foundation. The parks are protected for scientific, natural, educational, cultural and public purposes. There are dozens of Dark Sky Parks around the world, with more added each year. Start your stargazing exploration in these spots.
The Scottish park, established in 1947, is the largest in the United Kingdom. It’s also one of the best places in the United Kingdom to witness the unobstructed night sky. Visitors can see Orion here.
Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park
Japan’s park is located in the Okinawa Prefecture and is constituted of several islands, stretches of open water and coastal areas. Astrotourism is a growing industry in this region, with many local lighting policies in place to diminish light pollution.
Natural Bridges National Monument
Located in southeastern Utah, the region is notable for its almost complete lack of light pollution, making it one of the darkest spots in the continental United States. The site was designated in 2007.
The first Dark Sky Park in Australia was designated in 2016. The park is home to Siding Spring Observatory, which houses the largest telescope in Australia.
Check out the full list of parks on the website before planning your trip.
Read This Next
“Live Like a Local” Experiences
Top Trends
Dec 11, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta Feed6 Skincare Mistakes to Avoid Before and After a Flight This Winter
An airplane’s cabin is already dry, but add in the winter climate and your skin practically begs for help. This season, keep skin healthy and moisturized by avoiding these six common mistakes when traveling:
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year
From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.
Destinations / Europe
Oct 21, 2026Ease Into Autumn with Anantara’s European Wellness Retreats
Anantara Hotels & Resorts welcomes travelers to an autumnal escape with a collection of wellness experiences across its European properties. From hot mindful yoga and meditation to signature treatments like a Monoi Oil Body Wrap, these immersive retreats let guests unwind and rejuvenate as the seasons fade into one another.
Surveys
Oct 21, 2026Business Travel Bigger Than Ever, According to New Hotels.com Study
While just a few years ago, the travel industry may’ve been worried about business travel returning to its pre-pandemic numbers, according to a new Hotels.com study, that worry is no more. Business travel is back — and even more, it’s busier than ever for some travelers.
Sponsored Content
A New Rhythm of Work in Seoul
SEOUL REDEFINES THE FUTURE OF WORKATION by seamlessly integrating business, leisure and culture across the city. From the established MICE hub of Magok to the creative energy and scenic lifestyle along the Han River, it offers a dynamic ecosystem where productivity and relaxation naturally coexist — positioning Seoul as a global destination for a new way of working and living.
Destinations / North America
Oct 21, 2026Massive Resort Planned for Florida’s Forgotten Coast
Known as Florida’s Forgotten Coast, this stretch of the Florida Panhandle is often overlooked for more well-known destinations in the state, such as Panama City Beach, Miami and Tampa. But the region’s quiet and laid-back atmosphere slowly draws travelers wishing to escape the crowds and high prices of Florida’s other cities, and one hospitality brand just announced plans to bring a 55-acre resort and community to the area.
ShareThis