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Find Your Perfect View of the Stars at These 9 Stargazing Spots In and Around Toronto
One chilly evening, I found myself looking up at the vast expanse of the night sky, mesmerised by the stars flickering above. As I stood there in awe, I realised I wanted more than just a quick glimpse—I wanted to find the best spots in and around Toronto!
The city and its surroundings offer some of the best stargazing opportunities, whether you’re in the heart of downtown or just a short drive from the city. The challenge isn’t finding a place to stargaze—it’s picking which spot will be your perfect view.
So, let me guide you through the top stargazing locations around Toronto. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just love the idea of watching the night sky, these spots will offer you the perfect place to look up and lose yourself in the stars.
Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory
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Website: https://www.yorku.ca/science/observatory/
Address: Petrie Science & Engineering, York University
Contact details: +14167362100
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 7:30 to 9:30 PM
Cost: Free
The Allan I. Carswell Astronomical Observatory at York University is a must-visit spot for stargazing enthusiasts in Toronto. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sky-watcher, you’ll enjoy exploring the night sky through their impressive telescopes.
You can join their free public viewing sessions on Wednesday evenings, where friendly guides walk you through the constellations and celestial highlights. The observatory’s massive one-metre telescope gives you an incredible view of the stars, planets, and beyond.
What’s even better is that you don’t have to be a student to visit—you just need curiosity and a love for astronomy. They also host special events, so keep an eye out for meteor showers or eclipses on their calendar.
Pro tip: Check out their online viewing sessions if you can’t make it in person—it’s a great way to stargaze from the comfort of your home!
Royal Astronomical Society of Canada Okanagan Centre
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Website: https://www.ocrasc.ca/
Address: 4920 Dundas St W
Contact details: +14169247973
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- 0 to 2 years old – Free
- 3 to 18 years old, 55+ – CA$6.00
- 19 to 54 years old – CA$8.00
- Members – Free
The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) Okanagan Centre is perfect for anyone who loves exploring the mysteries of the night sky. It’s a welcoming spot where both beginners and experienced stargazers can learn and connect.
You’ll get to enjoy planetarium shows every weekend in their fixed roof dome, which makes it easy to explore galaxies and constellations without worrying about the weather.
Plus, their knowledgeable volunteers are always excited to answer questions and share cool space facts. The centre also hosts Star Parties and dark sky events, giving you a chance to see the stars in their full glory.
Pro tip: Bring a red flashlight to preserve your night vision during outdoor events—it’ll make spotting constellations and planets so much easier!
The David Dunlap Observatory Park
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Website: https://www.richmondhill.ca/en/david-dunlap-observatory.aspx
Address: 123 Hillsview Dr, Richmond Hill
Contact details: +19058830174
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 11:30 PM
Cost: Free
The David Dunlap Observatory Park in Richmond Hill is a fantastic spot to soak in the night sky without venturing too far from Toronto. The iconic observatory building adds a touch of history and charm, making it as photogenic as it is educational.
You’ll love the community vibe here, especially during meteor showers and special astronomy events where fellow stargazers set up their telescopes. It’s a great place to learn about the stars, whether you’re a beginner or looking to enjoy a peaceful evening.
While light pollution has increased slightly due to nearby developments, the park still offers clear views of the night sky for casual stargazing. Plus, it’s close enough to the city to make it an easy after-dinner outing.
Pro tip: Bring a picnic blanket and set up near the observatory lawn—it’s one of the best spots to relax and watch meteor showers comfortably!
Vista Trail Observation Deck
Media credit: parks.canada
Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge
Address: Rouge National Urban Park
Contact details: +4162642020
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Vista Trail Observation Deck is a hidden gem for stargazing and nature lovers just a short drive from Toronto. The short walk from the parking lot makes it super accessible, so you won’t have to haul your gear too far.
The deck offers wide, open views, making it perfect for catching sunsets before transitioning into stargazing as the sky darkens. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and soaking in seasonal beauty if you arrive early.
Even in winter, the frozen river and crisp air create a magical backdrop for night-sky viewing. Just be sure to bundle up if you’re planning to stay out for a while.
Pro tip: Bring a camping chair for extra comfort—there’s no built-in seating on the deck, so you’ll appreciate having a place to sit while scanning the skies!
North Frontenac Astronomy Park
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Website: https://www.northfrontenac.com/en/open-for-business/north-frontenac-astronomy-park.aspx#
Address: 5816 Road 506, Plevna
Contact details: +16134792231
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
North Frontenac Astronomy Park is one of the darkest and clearest stargazing spots near Toronto, perfect for catching a dazzling view of the Milky Way. The wide, open observation pad gives you plenty of space to set up telescopes or cameras.
You’ll be amazed by how many stars you can see with the naked eye, and it’s an incredible place for astrophotography if you’re bringing along a camera. The park’s remote location means there’s almost zero light pollution.
It’s well-equipped for night-sky enthusiasts, but you’ll want to plan ahead since it gets chilly after sunset. Make sure to pack layers and snacks to keep yourself cosy while you take in the views.
Pro tip: Bring a star map or download a stargazing app before you go—it’s fun to identify constellations, and you won’t need to rely on your phone’s bright screen to find them!
Monkton Observing Site
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Website: https://www.cleardarksky.com/
Address: North Perth
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Monkton Observing Site is a peaceful escape for stargazers looking to enjoy clear skies and natural beauty near Toronto. Surrounded by trees and open fields, it’s an ideal spot to disconnect and take in the stars.
The site is known for its exceptionally dark skies, making it perfect for spotting meteor showers and constellations. While it’s great for solo trips, it also draws a crowd during celestial events, so plan accordingly if you prefer quieter nights.
Its remote location means you’ll experience minimal light pollution, giving you a clearer view of the night sky than most other places nearby. Just be sure to bring bug spray and extra layers, as nature can get a little too real after sunset.
Pro tip: Pack a reclining camping chair for ultimate comfort—you’ll appreciate being able to lean back and watch the skies without straining your neck!
Hamilton RASC Observatory
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Website: https://www.hamiltonrasc.ca/club-observatory/
Address: 576 Concession 7 E, Millgrove
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Hamilton RASC Observatory is a fantastic spot near Toronto for stargazing, whether you’re a beginner or a serious astronomy enthusiast. The observatory’s two buildings give you access to powerful telescopes for learning and exploring the night sky.
Their Friday Night Sights program during warmer months is a fun way to meet fellow stargazers and check out the skies through professional-grade equipment. If you prefer bringing your own telescope, there’s plenty of space to set up and enjoy the stars.
The observatory also has a library and museum on-site, so you can brush up on astronomy facts before heading outside to observe. It’s family-friendly and ideal for anyone curious about the universe.
Pro tip: Bring a notebook or stargazing journal—you’ll want to jot down constellations, tips from members, and any cool discoveries you make during your visit!
Millennium Square Pickering
Media credit: destinationpickering
Website: https://www.pickering.ca/en/discovering/beachfrontparkmillenniumsquare.aspx#
Address: Pickering
Contact details: +19056837575
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Millennium Square in Pickering is a stunning spot for stargazing along the shore of Lake Ontario, just a short drive from Toronto. The open view over the water helps cut down on light pollution, giving you clearer skies than most urban areas.
Once a month, from April to October, the RASC hosts public star parties where you can peek through telescopes and learn more about the night sky. It’s a great place to bring friends or family for a laid-back evening under the stars.
The location is easy to access, and the nearby lakefront makes it a peaceful setting to relax before the stars come out. Be sure to check their event page for weather updates before heading out.
Pro tip: Bring a blanket and sit by the water while you wait for the skies to darken—it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset before stargazing begins!
Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
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Website: https://www.torrancebarrens.com/
Address: Southwood Rd, Gravenhurst
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve is one of the best places near Toronto to experience the night sky in its purest form. It offers wide, unobstructed views perfect for spotting constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way.
Surrounded by protected land, this spot stays naturally dark, making it ideal for astrophotography or simply soaking in the stars. It’s also flat and open, so you won’t have to worry about trees or hills blocking your view of the horizon.
While it’s a peaceful escape on most nights, weekends can draw larger crowds, so plan to arrive early if you want a prime spot. Don’t forget to pack snacks and drinks since there aren’t any stores nearby once the night gets started.
Pro tip: Bring a sleeping bag or recliner chair to lie back comfortably—this site is known for meteor showers, and you’ll want to be fully relaxed while watching them streak across the sky!
