Boston Area's Best Places For Stargazing
Set up a telescope, get some binoculars or just lie back on a blanket and take in the beautiful views of the summer night sky. The Perseids meteor shower occurs August 10-13, so don't miss your chance to have an unobstructed view. Head out to one of the Boston area's best places for stargazing.
408 Atlantic Ave.
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 223-8666
www.bostonharborislands.org
Grab a tent, pack an overnight bag and take the ferry over to spend a night under the stars on the Boston Harbor Islands. Camping islands include Lovells, Peddocks, Grape and Bumpkin Island. Explore all 12 islands or relax at your own site. The islands offer a view of Boston Harbor as well as an unobstructed view of the stars. This rustic camping experience will bring you closer to nature, as there is no electricity, onsite supplies or showers. Reservations can be made from six months up to two business days ahead here.
Boston University
725 Commonwealth Ave.
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 353-2630
www.bu.edu
Coit Observatory opens to the public from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. every Wednesday night to allow visitors to get an up-close view of the sky. With the binoculars and telescopes that are available for use, you will be sure to see things you have never seen before, and with more detail. Allow the informative staff to guide you during your stargazing, and perhaps learn some astronomy. Remember that viewings are weather-permitting, so the observatory is not open during rain, haze, clouds or other obstructive weather.
Day Blvd.
South Boston, MA 02127
(617) 727-5290
www.mass.gov
Castle Island is a 22-acre park that houses Fort Independence and offers many vantage points for viewing the night sky. Spread a blanket on the beach, relax on the grass near the fort or take advantage of one of the many park benches. Walk, jog or bike along the water to experience different views of your favorite constellations and perhaps catch a glimpse of the meteor showers. History buffs should arrive early and take a fort tour, given by the Castle Island Association, to learn about the importance of the fort in harbor defense.
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119 Beach St.
Manchester by the Sea, MA 01944
(978) 526-7276
www.manchester.ma.us
Singing Beach is a beautiful North Shore beach aptly named for the sound of the wind blowing across the sand. Perhaps take a stroll by the water to hear this singing for yourself. The beach is kept so clean that you can skip the blanket and lounge directly on the sand while taking in the stars, planets or meteor showers. The open oceanside view here is ideal for stargazing and planetary observation. If you don't want to get down on the sand, stay up on the walkway and enjoy the view from the benches overlooking the beach.
201 Washington St.
Groveland, MA 01834
(978) 521-9345
www.veaseypark.org
Veasey Memorial Park is a great spot away from the city lights to observe the stars against the dark of night. Bring your binoculars or set up a telescope to get an even closer look at the planets and constellations. This beautiful outdoor setting is also the perfect backdrop for a romantic stargazing night on a blanket on the grass. If you are looking to become more serious about stargazing, the North Shore Amateur Astronomy Club regularly schedules meetings here on Friday nights as the weather allows. Meeting time is generally at dusk in the main parking lot. The park asks that you dim your headlights when entering the parking lot.
Kim Vareika is the owner of Vareika Personal Training and Yoga in Plainville. She has been in the fitness industry for over ten years, and believes that wellness is about more than just physical health. When she is not teaching, practicing, or writing, she resides in Bridgewater where she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her nephew Caesar. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
