West Texas · Tech & Space · Nature
McDonald Observatory
Fort Davis, Texas
Family friendlyResearch telescopes atop Mount Locke and public star parties under some of the darkest skies in North America.
Star parties sell out — book tickets weeks ahead and pack a warm jacket, even in summer.
Know before you go
Plan your visit
Nearest town: Fort Davis · About 4 hrs from El Paso · Explore the Marfa city guide →
- Best season
- Year-round; clear fall nights
- Time needed
- Evening + morning
- Cost
- $ — star party tickets
- Getting around
- Mountain roads; nights get cold even in summer.
- Reservations
- Star parties sell out — book online.
For families: Kids love the star party; bring jackets and red flashlights.
Where to eat
Fort Davis Drug Store
Soda fountain and diner classics.
Family friendlyStone Village Market
Sandwiches and picnic supplies.
Family friendly
Things to do nearby
Fort Davis National Historic Site
A restored 1850s frontier fort.
Family friendlyDavis Mountains State Park
Skyline Drive and scenic camping.
Spring-fed swimming an hour north.
Hours and details change — check before you go.
Also nearby
West Texas · Nature
Balmorhea State Park
The world's largest spring-fed swimming pool — crystal-clear, 72 degrees and full of tiny desert fish.
West Texas · Music & Culture
Marfa
A high-desert town of minimalist art, open skies and the mysterious Marfa Lights.
West Texas · Nature
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Peak — the top of Texas at 8,751 feet — rising from an ancient fossil reef.
Parks & recreation nearby
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Tours, tastings & tickets
Book experiences in Fort Davis
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Where to stay
Places to stay near Fort Davis
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