McDonald Observatory

Things to do near McDonald Observatory

At McDonald Observatory, immerse yourself in a stargazing adventure, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the night sky. Participate in engaging star parties to deepen your astronomical knowledge. Explore nearby trails for a scenic experience, and discover additional attractions that enhance your visit. The observatory offers numerous stargazing opportunities, making it a perfect destination for astronomy enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Shopping

While McDonald Observatory is primarily focused on stargazing, you can find souvenirs at the visitor centre. For a broader selection, Fort Davis offers local shops like the Fort Davis Drug Store and the historic Davis Mountain Trading Company. If you're up for a drive, explore Marfa's boutiques, about 32.2km away.

Recreation

McDonald Observatory offers a tranquil atmosphere for stargazing and meditation under the vast Texas sky. Engage in guided night sky tours, explore the surrounding nature trails, or participate in astronomy workshops to deepen your connection with the cosmos and unwind amidst stunning mountain views.

Adventure

The Alpine Municipal Pool, located 48.3km from McDonald Observatory, offers a refreshing retreat during hot days. Enjoy swimming in the cool waters, relax under the sun, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for adventure and relaxation.

Nightlife

The nightlife near McDonald Observatory offers a unique blend of stargazing and local charm. Visit the nearby Fort Davis Historic Site for evening events or unwind at the Fort Davis Drug Store and Hotel, where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with good food and drinks.

Find the best attractions near McDonald Observatory

At McDonald Observatory, visitors can immerse themselves in a blend of culture and adventure, with highlights including the stunning state parks, historic forts, and beautiful botanical gardens. This destination is perfect for travellers seeking outdoor experiences and local attractions. Be sure to explore nearby points of interest and enjoy the rich offerings surrounding the Texas McDonald Observatory for an unforgettable experience.

• Davis Mountains State Park: Nestled 12.9km from McDonald Observatory, this stunning state park offers breathtaking scenery and a plethora of outdoor activities. Hike through diverse landscapes, enjoy birdwatching, or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings amidst the rugged mountains.
• Fort Davis National Historic Site: Located 16.1km away, this historic fort provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's military history. Explore well-preserved buildings and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region through engaging exhibits and guided tours.
• Overland Trail Museum: Also situated 16.1km from the observatory, this museum showcases the history of the Overland Trail. With intriguing exhibits, it offers insights into the lives of early settlers and the significant events that shaped the area.

Best time to go to McDonald Observatory

The best time to visit McDonald Observatory can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around McDonald Observatory falls in June, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around McDonald Observatory falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	44.4°F (6.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	49.5°F (9.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	57.0°F (13.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	71.2°F (21.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	78.3°F (25.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
August	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	52.7°F (11.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
December	46.2°F (7.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for McDonald Observatory

To save on your trip to McDonald Observatory, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and August, with Tuesday being the least expensive day for accommodation. Use Expedia to compare prices and filter for eco-friendly options, and don't forget to sort results from lowest to highest. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package can yield significant savings. Keep an eye out for best deals and additional savings to maximise your budget while enjoying the stunning attractions around Fort Davis.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around McDonald Observatory are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around McDonald Observatory is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around McDonald Observatory is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase a range of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservation at the McDonald Observatory with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.