Find dark sky locations away from city lights for the best meteor shower viewing, especially during the Geminids peaking around December 13-14.
Optimal Conditions
Choose spots with minimal light pollution, like national parks or rural areas at higher elevations. Lie back or use a reclining chair to scan a wide sky view, allowing eyes 30 minutes to dark-adapt. Peak hours are late night to pre-dawn when the radiant is highest.
Top Locations
- Death Valley National Park, California, for vast dark skies and multiple showers.
- Big Bend National Park, Texas, with designated stargazing areas.
- Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania, a certified Dark Sky Park.
Direction to Watch
For Geminids, face south toward Gemini constellation after midnight; meteors streak from there but appear anywhere. Avoid binoculars to see more sky.
