A Summer Itinerary for Visiting Lowell Observatory
Summer in Flagstaff means clear skies, cool evenings, and countless opportunities for stargazing—and there’s no better place to experience it all than Lowell Observatory. Whether you’re spending the day exploring hands-on exhibits or planning an unforgettable night under the stars, this summer itinerary highlights the top things to do at Lowell Observatory.
Start Your Day with Exploration and Discovery
☀️11:45am – Enjoy the View from Mars Hill Lookout
After driving up the winding road that leads to the observatory, pull off onto the scenic overlook located just outside of the observatory’s entrance. You can enjoy a sweeping view of downtown Flagstaff and snap some photos!
☀️ 12:00 PM – Arrival and Check-in
Arrive at Lowell Observatory, located just minutes from downtown Flagstaff. After checking in at the visitor center, grab a campus map to explore the observatory’s attractions. From hands-on exhibits to live science presentations, there’s something for everyone.
☀️ 12:30 PM – Discover the Orbits Curiosity Zone
Blast off into an out-of-this-world adventure! The Orbits Curiosity Zone is an interactive exhibit hall created for budding scientists, marking Northern Arizona’s first children’s hands-on science exhibit. Vibrant and engaging displays blend fun with learning as kids explore the wonders of the cosmos, led by the charming alien mascots, Marzee and Pluie.
☀️ 1:30 PM – Catch “Celestial Visions” in the Universe Theater
Step into the Universe Theater for wonder and inspiration! Enjoy multicultural astronomy shorts, including short films from Indigenous perspectives as well as modern astronomical research and technology.
☀️ 2:30 PM – Join a History Talk
Learn where our story began! Explore the origins of Lowell—from Mars research by Percival Lowell to an up-close view of the iconic Clark Telescope, used to train Apollo 11 astronauts.
☀️ 3:00 PM – Explore the Stardust Lab Astronomy Gallery
Ponder your place in the universe. The Stardust Lab offers unique, thought-provoking, and accessible exhibits that encourage visitors to reflect on their place in the universe while exploring the many planets and solar systems being discovered in our galaxy. Each exhibit features visual, audio, and touch components to ensure that all visitors are included in experiencing them.
Enjoy an Evening Under the Stars
☀️ 6:00 PM – Dinner at Planet X Café
Enjoy delicious coffee, teas, sandwiches, soups, salads, and pastries from Jitters Lunchbox in a stylish dining room, complete with a cozy fireplace. The Planet X Cafe is Lowell’s first-ever on-campus eatery — no more having to leave campus to grab a bite during your visit! Check out the menu here.
☀️ 7:00 PM – Catch “Meet the Planets!”
Join us on a journey through the solar system as we visit each of the planets. Travel from scorching-hot Mercury to icy Neptune and Pluto during this live presentation. Along the way, you’ll learn cool facts, see stunning visuals, and discover what makes each planet unique. This live presentation is a great way to spark curiosity and inspire future space explorers of all ages!
☀️ 8:00 PM – View the Night Sky Through the Clark Telescope
Step back in time with the iconic Clark Telescope, where you’ll view night sky objects through the same lens used for historic observations. Get in line early – this is one of our most popular experiences!
☀️ 8:30 PM – Stargazing at the Open Deck Observatory
End your night with stargazing at Lowell’s state-of-the-art Open Deck Observatory. This public observing plaza features six advanced telescopes that collectively give you a viewing experience that goes far beyond seeing faint smudges of light. From rich star fields and planets full of color, to nebulae and galaxies that reveal obvious structure, the famously dark skies of Flagstaff are abundant in celestial treasures for you to discover.
Make the Most of Your Summer Visit to Lowell Observatory
- Check the Weather: Telescope viewing is weather-dependent. Clear skies provide the best experience.
- Dress Comfortably: Flagstaff’s summer evenings can be cool. Dress in layers to stay comfortable while stargazing.
- Buy Tickets in Advance: General Admission includes access to all exhibits, science talks, shows, and telescopes. It’s the best way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
First-time visitor and seasoned stargazers alike will enjoy the perfect mix of discovery, inspiration, and stargazing offered by a summer visit to Lowell Observatory, located right here in Flagstaff, Arizona!