Conde Nast Traveler: Stargazing Along Tucson's New ‘Astro Trail’ in Southern Arizona

Jennifer Broome, Conde Nast Traveler | January 31, 2025

Thanks to its unique combination of mountainous terrain, an arid climate, and minimal light pollution, the southern Arizona landscape offers pristine conditions for night sky viewing—whether you’re hoping to see a planetary alignment, meteor shower, or simply want to lie back and appreciate the Milky Way in all its glory. This January, Tucson, Arizona launched a new astrotourism trail, further cementing the desert city’s reputation as a sanctuary for stargazers.

Tucson is home to an array of astronomical attractions including observatories, research centers, and vast outdoor spaces like Saguaro National Park, the world's ninth Urban Night Sky Place. The city is also a burgeoning arts and culture hub (landing it on our list of the best places to go in 2024)—meaning you can still enjoy top-notch hotels and restaurants while taking advantage of its plentiful natural wonders.

The new Tucson “Astro Trail” is a curated guide of dark-sky attractions—plus local retailers and restaurants along the way—linking five observatories, a planetarium, a laboratory, an aviation and space museum, two state parks, and a national park. Having strictly enforced light pollution control since 1972, Tucson is a pioneer of night-sky preservation—and now visitors can nimbly navigate between its many astronomy attractions using a mobile passport or printed guide.

Where to stay

Loews Ventana Canyon Resort: Guests enjoy a complimentary stargazing adventure led by University of Arizona experts using the resort’s telescope to explore stars, planets, and galaxies.

Read the full story on Conde Nast Traveler here.