Rhode Island Is Home To One Of The Best Dark Sky Parks In The World
By Beth Price-Williams|Published September 23, 2022
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
A clear night is the perfect opportunity for a bit of stargazing in Rhode Island. We’ve got some amazing spots to go stargazing all throughout the state. However, this dark sky park in Rhode Island might top them all. While the park isn’t open daily, you can visit on Friday evenings for a one-of-a-kind nighttime adventure.
Boasting some of the darkest skies on the East Coast, Frosty Drew Observatory & Sky Theatre at Ninigret Park in Charlestown offers the perfect way to spend a Friday evening – all year around.
While the observatory welcomes stargazers on Fridays all year around, you won’t always be guaranteed the clear skies necessary for successful stargazing.
A night filled with clouds, rain, or snow, however, doesn’t mean a wasted trip. The observatory will often host tours or presentations with astronomers answering visitor questions.
If you visit for a night of stargazing, you will be permitted to use some of the equipment, like telescopes, under the supervision of an astronomer. You can also bring your own equipment.
Make sure you dress for the weather, too, especially during the colder moments. The observatory doesn’t have climate control, so the weather will be just as it is outside.
Your best bet – to avoid mosquito and tick bites – is to wear long pants and closed shoes during the warmer months. Spiders are common in the observatory, so keep that in mind. (The spiders are left alone and alive.)
Have you been to this dark sky park in Rhode Island? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! For more unique adventures, visit these rural small towns in Rhode Island.
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