Lowell Observatory
A century-old observatory where Pluto was discovered in 1930. Visit historic telescopes by day, and look through telescopes at the stars by night.
Founded by Percival Lowell in 1894, the Lowell Observatory sits on Mars Hill, west of downtown. Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto here in 1930. During the day, visitors can tour the historic dome housing the Clark refractor, the Pluto discovery telescope, and Lowell's tomb, and take part in solar observation sessions. At night, the observing decks open, and telescopes show planets, star clusters, and galaxies. Admission is charged per person. For evening sessions, it's best to book on the official website in advance, and it gets cold up on the hill at night.
Opening hours
About 10:00–22:00 (night sessions depend on season)
Nearby sights
- Pioneer Museum
- Flagstaff Visitor Center (Historic Depot)
- Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
- Historic Downtown Flagstaff & Route 66
- Museum of Northern Arizona
- Buffalo Park
- Mount Elden
- The Arboretum at Flagstaff