Goldendale Observatory's upgraded telescope.

Goldendale Observatory Solar and Night Program Reservations

Event location: Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site

Visitors may tour the park grounds but must make an appointment to enter the visitor center and/or observatory. Unscheduled visitors and groups will be turned away.  Book your free reservation on our online calendar with the link above. Specific dates and times are automatically removed from the calendar as they become full. Check back frequently for availability as cancellations occur.

Event Date
Daily on Sunday, Friday, and Saturday, 3 - 5pm until Sun, Sep 27 2026
Recent
  • -
  • -
Upcoming
  • -
  • -
  • -
  • -
  • -
Daily on Sunday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 9 - 11:59pm until Sun, Sep 27 2026
Recent
  • -
  • -
Upcoming
  • -
  • -
  • -
  • -
  • -
Tour the sky at Goldendale Observatory State Park! Spend the afternoon learning about the sun with our Solar Program. Or come late and learn about the stars through one of the world's largest public telescopes at our spectacular Night Program.

Solar Program

3-5 p.m., Fri. - Sun.

Spend the afternoon learning all about our local star, the Sun. Enjoy the best live solar viewing anywhere!
In the afternoon, visitors are treated to an insightful discussion on the surface features and inner workings of Sol. This two-hour show includes some of the highest resolution live views of the Sun you will see at any science facility. By the end, you will understand the stars!
Visitors must arrive on time. Gate closes at showtime.


Night Program

9 - 11:59 p.m., Thurs. - Sun.

View planets, nebulae, galaxies, and more through our famous telescope and have all your questions about outer space answered!
The "main event" that put Goldendale Observatory on the map: Visitors have their astronomy questions answered by expert staff while touring the stars outdoors and viewing various space objects through the eyepiece of one of the world's largest public telescopes.
Bring some curiosity... and a jacket!
Visitors must arrive on time. Gates close at showtime.


Please note the following important details

Admission is Free during regular schedule. A WA State Parks Discover Pass is required to park on-site and is available for purchase at the facility; $10 Day Pass, $45 Annual (new price). It is advised that solar visitors arrive at least 15 minutes before showtime to ensure parking; carpooling is always recommended. Young visitors are most welcome, however, disruptive and/or destructive groups will be asked to leave. Absolutely no pets, thank you.

Directions

45.8388538, -120.8149693