Stargazing has been around since the beginning of time. In history, sailors used their understanding of astronomy to help them navigate the dark seas. Ancient astrologers also believed in the mythology of the planets and stars, using them to predict the future and track their calendars. 

These days, stargazing is an incredible and informative hobby. The benefits of stargazing include a deeper appreciation of nature and escaping daily stresses. These can improve your focus and cognitive skills, making it easier to handle work and when playing online casino games. 

The Best Stargazing Spots in Michigan

Nestled in the northern area of the United States is Michigan state. There are plenty of things to do in Michigan. Stargazing is one of them. It has plentiful forests and lakeshores, all perfect for stargazers.

The first step to stargazing is choosing your spot. Here are a few of the best places to stargaze in Michigan.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park

Headlands International Dark Sky Park is one of Michigan’s most popular stargazing destinations. Situated in Mackinaw City, the park is open all day and night with no entrance fee, making it easily accessible. The crystal-clear Lake Michigan and vast skies make it a breathtaking destination for your stargazing activities. The park has a long shoreline and hundreds of acres of woods, giving you plenty of options. 

This park is full of wildlife, including deer, coyotes and eagles, making it perfect for animal lovers. Additionally, Headlands International Dark Sky Park offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking and skiing. This educational site is a certified dark-skies preserve, meaning it’s free from light pollution. These Dark Sky parks are designated areas for stargazers, with many near observatories. Be sure to enter the Headlands International Dark Sky Park observatory for an educational experience. Also, keep an eye out for any upcoming events. Be prepared to admire the beautiful and colorful night sky. 

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is known for its multi-colored and unique sandstone formations. The location makes it the perfect spot for stargazing in Michigan. Watch as the sun sets on the lake and the stars, moon and planets replace it. Options are plenty for you to pick your stargazing spot. Not only does it have sandstone cliffs, but it also has deep forests, inland lakes and dunes. The sound of the waves crashing into the cliffs will only add to your meditative experience. Have your camera loaded and charged to take extraordinary pictures of the nightly view. 

Negwegon State Park

If lowland areas and meadows are your thing, Negwegon State Park is for you. Situated on the Lake Huron shore, Negwegon State Park is the perfect location to hike, camp and stargaze. This park is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., so double-check the check-in times if you’re camping. 

Hitch up your tent, make some s’mores and hot chocolate, cuddle up with a loved one and watch in awe of the day sky turning into night. The Negwegon State Park offers the best stargazing in Michigan. The sky’s reflection on the clear lake is not an experience you want to miss. 

Keweenaw Dark Sky Park

Keweenaw Dark Sky Park is a hidden gem in small Keweenaw County in Michigan. With many undeveloped areas, it’s the most serene spot for stargazers. It’s also open all hours of the day, all year round. Be prepared to be in awe of the beautiful northern lights, milky ways and meteor showers. You and your loved one can take a beautiful moonlit hike under the gorgeous night sky. There’s no need to purchase a telescope as Keweenaw Dark Sky Park has a telescope lending program at the Outdoors Activity Center. Keweenaw Dark Sky Park also has frequent events and workshops, so be on the lookout for any you might find interesting. 

Thompson’s Harbor State Park

Much like Newegen State Park, Thompson’s Harbor State Park is on Lake Huron in Presque Isle County. This park is perfect for both hikers and stargazers. They offer a variety of additional recreational activities, including mountain biking and cross-country skiing. This recreational area also offers a boating site, the perfect opportunity to stargaze from the peaceful waters. The cabins available also provide an intimate spot for stargazing. The clear light-pollution-free skies give you the most spectacular view for stargazing in lower Michigan. Have your binoculars and camera packed and ready to capture the stars, moon, planets and wildlife. 

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

This spectacular state park is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a vast wilderness area well-known for having the largest waterfall in Michigan. This park is most popular among photographers for its picturesque nature and wildlife due to its many acres of forests and rivers. Tahquamenon Falls State Park is Michigan’s second largest park, giving you plentiful options for stargazing spots. Tahquamenon Falls State Park requires a Michigan Recreation Passport to access. This park is open year-round and between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Arrive before dusk to experience the day turning into night.

Additional Stargazing Tips

Now that you’ve picked the right stargazing area in Michigan, here are additional tips to add to your experience. 

• Do your research. With modern technology, the ability to research stars and planets is effortless. Brush up on your astronomical knowledge to proudly identify the different celestial bodies. Some stargazing sites in Michigan offer telescopes to borrow or rent, so you don’t have to make an expensive purchase. Join an online astronomy community to gather extra tips and tricks for your stargazing experience. 

• Keep an eye on the different moon phases. The moon is Earth’s partner, as it helps control our tides and lights up our night sky. When the moon is full and bright, the stars are less visible. So make sure you don’t go stargazing during a full moon.

• Look up any astronomical events happening soon. These include meteor showers, lunar eclipses, planet transits and the northern lights. They are all magnificent events you don’t want to miss and can make your stargazing experience all the more special. 

Register At Borgata Online

The fresh air from the outdoors will leave your mind feeling recharged and ready for any work or life event, even recreational activities like poker tournaments. Register with Borgata Online now to explore casino games like online poker, roulette and slots.