Highland Road Park Observatory
Discover the universe at Highland Road Park Observatory, offering breathtaking views of planets, stars, and celestial events with powerful telescopes ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highland Road Park Observatory
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the universe at Highland Road Park Observatory, offering breathtaking views of planets, stars, and celestial events with powerful telescopes and expert guides.
"It was a beautiful clear night for star gazing! We were happy that there was just a short wait for the bod telescope."
Check the Schedule First
Public viewing nights and special events vary. Always check their website before you go!
Arrive Early for Telescopes
Popular viewing nights can have lines for the main telescopes. Get there early to minimize wait times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Dome Telescope
Observatory Dome
Peer through the powerful 20-inch telescope for breathtaking views of planets and celestial wonders.
Outdoor Telescope Viewing
Observatory Grounds
Friendly volunteers guide you through the cosmos with various telescopes, perfect for all ages.
Educational Programs & Events
Various Locations
Engage with interactive exhibits and special events that make learning about space fun for families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Stargazing
Dress for the Night Sky
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Schedule First
Public viewing nights and special events vary. Always check their website before you go!
Arrive Early for Telescopes
Popular viewing nights can have lines for the main telescopes. Get there early to minimize wait times.
Bring Binoculars
Great for exploring the moon or wider star fields when not using the main telescopes.
Dress in Layers
Evenings can get chilly, so bring a jacket or sweater for comfortable stargazing.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Schedule First
Public viewing nights and special events vary. Always check their website before you go!
Arrive Early for Telescopes
Popular viewing nights can have lines for the main telescopes. Get there early to minimize wait times.
Bring Binoculars
Great for exploring the moon or wider star fields when not using the main telescopes.
Dress in Layers
Evenings can get chilly, so bring a jacket or sweater for comfortable stargazing.
Kid-Friendly Activities
They often have activities for children, making it a fantastic family outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Highland Road Park Observatory for its incredible stargazing opportunities, especially the chance to view celestial bodies through powerful telescopes. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteers are a major highlight, enhancing the educational experience for all ages. While the core experience is highly rated, some minor issues like distant noises or less-than-ideal indoor staff interactions have been noted on rare occasions.
"It was a beautiful clear night for star gazing! We were happy that there was just a short wait for the bod telescope:^) The gentleman operating the telescope was very knowledgeable and informative. There were people of all ages and walks of life- share a love for the sky. We were able to borrow some binoculars for stargazing outside. The young man operating the telescope outside was also extremely nice and helpful:^) we loved our beautiful experience. The only slight marr on the experience was as we were leaving we heard shots fired in the distance, a pack of cyotes howling and what appeared to be a police vehicle driving slowly through the parking area with his high beams on ( it is specifically stated on the sign at the entrance to keep your headlights off to keep the star gazing experience nice). It was just weird."
Mary Kelone LE, LMT BCTMB
"I LOVE bringing my kids here! The joy in their voices when they get to see a star 🌟 or planet ✨️ brings me to my childhood days of my first telescope 🔭 experience."
Revieta Redden
"Really Great Place for families and even small children. I went with my daughter, her fiancee and her 6 yr old twins to see the Super Blood Wolf Moon lunar eclipse last night. They had activists for the children as well as large telescopes set up for viewing. They are very informative about any questions you have. To my surprise there were people out with chairs and even blankets and sleeping bags on the ground to watch this event. I would definitely recommend this place. There was ample free parking and fresh hot free coffee. I did purchase a map of the moon for $7.95 and also a Baton Rouge star guide for $17.95 for the children. I'm so glad we got to go to this event!!!"
Rodeshia Truitt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Highland Road Park Observatory is located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It's easily accessible by car and has ample free parking available. Many visitors find it a convenient drive from the city center.
Information on public transportation options can be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most direct access. Check local transit schedules for potential routes.
The observatory offers ample free parking, which is a significant plus, especially during popular events.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the observatory, many public parks and facilities aim for accessibility. It's advisable to contact them in advance if you have specific needs.
The observatory is primarily known for its nighttime viewing events. Daytime hours for general access or specific exhibits may vary, so it's best to check their official schedule.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to public viewing nights is often free, though special events might have a fee. It's wise to check their website for the most current admission information.
Public viewing hours are typically in the evening and depend on the day of the week and scheduled events. Always consult the observatory's official calendar for precise times.
The observatory is generally family-friendly with no strict age restrictions for public viewing nights. Children are welcome and often find the experience very engaging.
Yes, the observatory can be a unique venue for private events. Inquire directly with BREC Parks for availability and booking details.
Special events, such as solar eclipses, may have associated costs for viewing or activities. Information on pricing for these events is usually released closer to the date.
🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see planets like Saturn and Jupiter, the Moon, nebulae, star clusters, and other deep-sky objects. The 20-inch telescope offers particularly stunning views.
Absolutely! Knowledgeable volunteers and staff are on hand to explain what you're seeing and answer astronomy questions.
Bring a chair or blanket for comfort, especially for longer events. Layers of clothing are recommended as evenings can be cool. Binoculars are also a great addition.
While the observatory itself is a safe environment, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially when leaving late at night. Following park guidelines, like keeping headlights off, contributes to a better experience for everyone.
Yes, the observatory often hosts family-friendly activities and educational programs designed to engage younger visitors with astronomy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no on-site dining facilities. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks, or dine beforehand in Baton Rouge.
Yes, bringing your own food and non-alcoholic beverages is generally permitted. This is a good option for longer viewing sessions or family outings.
Baton Rouge offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. You can find numerous dining options before or after your visit to the observatory.
During some special events, like the Super Blood Wolf Moon eclipse viewing, free hot coffee was provided, which was a nice touch for attendees.
While not explicitly a picnic spot, bringing snacks and enjoying them in designated areas or on blankets is usually acceptable. Check park rules for specifics.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times are during clear, moonless nights for deep-sky objects. Special events like eclipses also offer unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own cameras and tripods. Some visitors have even used specialized equipment with the observatory's telescopes.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of others' experiences. Avoid using bright flashes that can disrupt stargazing.
Planets like Saturn, the Moon, and nebulae are popular subjects. The observatory's powerful telescopes can aid in capturing detailed images.
Yes, some visitors have successfully photographed celestial bodies using their own cameras attached to the observatory's large telescopes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Bring snacks and drinks, and consider a blanket or chairs for comfortable viewing, especially if attending a longer event. It's a wonderful way to spark curiosity about space and science in a fun, accessible environment.
🔭 Amateur Astronomers & Astrophotographers
Consider attending during public viewing nights to learn from knowledgeable volunteers and potentially network with fellow enthusiasts. Special events, like meteor showers or eclipses, provide unique photographic and observational challenges.
👩🏫 Educators and Students
Arrange a visit or check for specific educational programs offered by BREC Parks. The interactive nature of stargazing makes it a memorable way for students to connect with scientific concepts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Cosmos with the 20-Inch Telescope
During public viewing nights, there might be a short wait to use this main telescope, but the experience is well worth it. The volunteers operating it are not only skilled at locating celestial targets but also adept at explaining what you're seeing, making the experience educational and awe-inspiring.
Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, getting a chance to look through such a substantial telescope is a highlight of any visit. It offers a perspective on the universe that is truly out of this world.
Family Fun Under the Stars
Special events, like lunar eclipses, often feature activities tailored for younger audiences, ensuring they remain entertained and involved. The presence of knowledgeable volunteers who can answer questions in an accessible way further enhances the family experience.
Many parents rave about the wonder in their children's eyes when they get their first glimpse of a distant planet or the moon's craters. It's a memorable way to combine fun with learning, making it a highly recommended spot for those with kids.
Community and Knowledgeable Volunteers
They not only help visitors locate and view celestial objects through the telescopes but also provide fascinating insights and answer a wide range of questions. This community-driven aspect significantly enhances the overall visitor experience, making it more than just a viewing session.
Even during busy nights, the volunteers strive to be helpful and informative, contributing to a welcoming and educational atmosphere. Their passion is infectious and plays a crucial role in the observatory's appeal.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit