Every August, the Perseid meteor shower lights up the sky with thousands of meteors seen all over the U.S.! If you’re looking for places in Columbus to catch a glimpse of the meteor shower or plan a stargazing night during the year, we’ve made you a full list of the best places with the darkest skies for viewing.
Perkins Observatory
3199 Columbus Pike, Delaware, OH 43015
Just north of Columbus in Delaware, Ohio Wesleyan University, you’ll find Perkins Observatory fixed with a giant telescope originally installed in 1931. It’s the only observatory in Central Ohio that is open to the public on a weekly basis throughout the year. You can purchase $10 tickets for their public programming on Fridays and during special astronomical events. Programming includes observing with the telescope, a tour of the observatory, and learning about the night sky.
Columbus Metro Parks
Various locations
As some of the darkest parts of the city, the Columbus Metro Parks have some of the best stargazing opportunities. Most Metro Parks close at 10 pm, but the Parks department often offers special programming like Moon Hikes and other evening activities. Check the calendar and sign up for those activities here. For more informal stargazing, find a pull out viewpoint on the side of the road near the Metro Parks where you’ll still get a great look at the night sky. Some local favorites are Darby Creek, Highbanks, and Glacier Ridge.
Courtesy of COSI
COSI Planetarium
333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
COSI is home to the largest planetarium in the state of Ohio with a 60 foot dome for viewing the galaxy! Experience the skies, the earth, and even the human body like never before! Planetarium shows are included in your general admission ticket so you can stargaze even during the daytime. The shows change seasonally, so check the most up to date list here and plan your visit.
Alum Creek State Park Campgrounds
2911 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
A short drive north of downtown Columbus, Alum Creek offers amazing views of the night sky. To make the most of your time there, consider booking an overnight camping spot for hours of stargazing! If you’re not in the mood for tent camping, Alum Creek also offers full hookups for RVs as well as cabin rentals. View the site availability here.
Ohio State University Department of Astronomy
140 W 18th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
During the academic year, Ohio State University hosts events that are open to the public including star parties on the observatory deck of Smith Laboratory. The Annie Slettebak planetarium also offers occasional shows open to the public and large groups. Keep an eye on their events calendar from September through May to learn from professors in the astronomy department.
Courtesy of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The Wilds
14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732
If you’ve ever dreamt of sleeping under the stars on an African Safari, well, you can get pretty close to that experience spending the night at the Columbus Zoo’s conservation park: The Wilds. Have a sleepover with the giraffes and rhinos living on over 10,000 acres of land just north of Columbus. Choose from a variety of overnight options from primitive campsites, RV hookup sites, glamping tents, and even cabins! Most overnight stays include meals and an open-air safari tour. Book your stargazing sleepover here.
Wherever you decide to go stargazing in Columbus, you’re sure to enjoy the most peaceful parts of the city! Find more things to do in Columbus this summer.
