Explore the Cosmos at Goldendale Observatory State Park
Discover the wonders of the universe at Goldendale Observatory State Park, the premier stargazing destination in Washington State, offering powerful telescopes and engaging programs.
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Washington, Goldendale Observatory State Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the cosmos. With impressive telescopes and educational programs, it's a must-visit for astronomy enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Goldendale Observatory State Park
- 1602 Observatory Dr, Goldendale, Washington, 98620, US
- +1509-773-3141
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure your spot for the evening stargazing sessions, as they can fill up quickly.
- Check the observatory's website for special events and programs that may enhance your visit.
- Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at the night sky, and don't forget your camera to capture the moments.
- Consider visiting during a meteor shower for a truly spectacular celestial experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Vancouver, WA, take I-5 South towards Portland. Merge onto I-205 South and continue until you reach I-84 East. Follow I-84 East for approximately 40 miles, then take exit 64 for US-97 North toward Goldendale. Continue on US-97 North for about 45 miles. Take the exit for WA-142 towards Goldendale. Follow WA-142 until you reach Goldendale. Once in the city, turn left onto Observatory Dr. The observatory will be on your right at 1602 Observatory Dr, Goldendale, WA 98620.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus or train to The Dalles, OR. From there, transfer to the Wasco County Public Transportation (WCT) service, which provides limited routes to Goldendale. Note that you may need to check the schedule in advance as services may not run frequently. Upon arriving in Goldendale, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to get to Goldendale Observatory State Park located at 1602 Observatory Dr, Goldendale, WA 98620.
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Carpool or Rideshare
If you are in a larger city like Portland or Vancouver, consider using rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Goldendale Observatory State Park' as your destination. Be prepared for a longer drive, approximately 2-2.5 hours, depending on traffic. The fare may vary, so check the app for estimated costs before booking your ride.
Discover more about Goldendale Observatory State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Goldendale Mountain Identifier
9.9 km
Explore the stunning Goldendale Mountain Identifier, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Rainier in Washington.
Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial
16.1 km
Discover the Maryhill Stonehenge Memorial, a breathtaking tribute in Goldendale, Washington, offering stunning views and a unique historical experience.
Welcome to Washington State Sign
16.6 km
Discover the beauty and adventure that awaits at the Welcome to Washington State Sign in Goldendale, your gateway to the Evergreen State.
Maryhill Museum of Art
18.3 km
Explore the captivating Maryhill Museum of Art in Goldendale, WA, where art and nature unite to create an unforgettable experience.
Biggs Rufus Historic Silo Storage Building
19.2 km
Explore the Biggs Rufus Historic Silo Storage Building, an iconic landmark in Wasco, Oregon, showcasing the region's rich agricultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
Historic Locomotive
23.3 km
Explore the Historic Locomotive in Lyle, Washington, and discover a captivating piece of railroad history amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Locust Grove Church.
26.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical significance of Locust Grove Church in the heart of Oregon's picturesque landscapes.
Wasco House Bed & Breakfast
28.9 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Wasco House Bed & Breakfast, where comfort meets hospitality in the heart of Oregon.
Crawford Oaks Trailhead
29.2 km
Explore Crawford Oaks Trailhead - Where Stunning Views and Fossilized Wonders Await in Columbia Hills, Washington's Nature Paradise.
Petroglyphs
31.5 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning landscapes at the Petroglyphs, a captivating historical landmark in Lyle, Washington.
Douglas Hollow Schoolhouse
35.5 km
Discover the charm of the past at Douglas Hollow Schoolhouse, a historical landmark in The Dalles, Oregon, showcasing rural America's educational heritage.
Indian Shaker Church and the Gulick Homestead, The Dalles, Oregon
35.9 km
Explore the rich history and cultural significance of the Indian Shaker Church and Gulick Homestead in The Dalles, Oregon, a unique landmark for all travelers.
The Mint Building
38.8 km
Explore the historical charm of The Mint Building, a landmark in The Dalles, Oregon, showcasing the rich heritage of the Pacific Northwest.
Historic Wing Hong Hai Company store
38.8 km
Discover the rich legacy of the Chinese community at The Dalles' Historic Wing Hong Hai Company Store, a significant cultural landmark in Oregon.
Cousins' Country Inn
39.6 km
Experience the charm of Cousins' Country Inn, your cozy retreat in The Dalles, Oregon, blending comfort with delicious dining and local adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Brooks Memorial State Park
16.9 km
Experience the lush landscapes and outdoor adventures at Brooks Memorial State Park in Washington, a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Le Page Park
17.7 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and recreational activities at Le Page Park in Wasco, Oregon - a perfect destination for nature lovers and families.
Celilo Park
23.8 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Celilo Park, a serene retreat along the Columbia River in Oregon.
Deschutes River State Recreation Area
26.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Deschutes River State Recreation Area, a perfect escape into Oregon's natural beauty.
Columbia Hills Historical State Park
28.7 km
Explore Columbia Hills Historical State Park, a stunning blend of nature and history in Washington State, featuring hiking, fishing, and ancient petroglyphs.
The Dalles Dam Visitor Center
34.9 km
Explore the Dalles Dam Visitor Center for an insightful journey through hydroelectric power, local wildlife, and stunning Columbia River views.
Seufert Park
35.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich cultural heritage of Seufert Park, a must-visit natural attraction in The Dalles, Oregon.
The Dalles Bridge
35.8 km
Experience stunning views and rich history at The Dalles Bridge, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge.
Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum
36.9 km
Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Oregon at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum, a cultural gem in the heart of the Gorge.
Sunshine Mill
38.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of history, wine, and live music at Sunshine Mill, a must-visit winery in The Dalles, Oregon.
Wonderworks Children’s Museum
38.7 km
Explore, Discover, and Learn at Wonderworks Children's Museum in The Dalles, Oregon – A Fun-Filled Adventure for Kids and Families!
Lewis & Clark Festival Park
38.7 km
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Rock Fort
38.8 km
Explore Rock Fort, a historic landmark in The Dalles, Oregon, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's rich cultural past.
National Neon Sign Museum
39.0 km
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Original Courthouse Museum
39.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Portage Grill
36.0 km
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Big Jim's Drive In Restaurant
36.8 km
Experience the best of classic American fast food at Big Jim's Drive In Restaurant in The Dalles - burgers, fries & ice cream await!
The Grill Steak and Seafood
37.4 km
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Hi-Way House
37.7 km
Indulge in premium steaks and local flavors at Hi-Way House, The Dalles' top destination for a memorable dining experience.
Taqueria: La Fogata
38.7 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine in The Dalles at Taqueria: La Fogata – where every dish tells a story.
Smoke Wring BBQ
38.7 km
Experience authentic barbecue bliss at Smoke Wring BBQ in The Dalles - where every bite tells a story.
Frutas Locas y Mas
38.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of fresh fruit at Frutas Locas y Mas in The Dalles - A must-visit dining destination for health-conscious travelers.
Rivertap Restaurant and Pub
38.7 km
Experience delicious cuisine and vibrant live music at Rivertap Restaurant and Pub in The Dalles – where great food meets community spirit.
Freebridge Brewing
38.8 km
Discover the best craft beers and delicious food at Freebridge Brewing in The Dalles, Oregon – a true gem for beer lovers!
Bargeway Pub
38.8 km
Discover Bargeway Pub in The Dalles: A cozy eatery serving delicious American cuisine with stunning river views.
Zim's Sports Bar and Grill
38.8 km
Discover Zim's Sports Bar and Grill: A top destination in The Dalles for delicious meals, refreshing drinks, live music, and vibrant sports culture.
Baldwin Saloon
38.8 km
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Rio Grande Taqueria
38.8 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Rio Grande Taqueria in The Dalles, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes.
Lilo's Hawaiian BBQ The Dalles
38.8 km
Discover the rich flavors of Hawaii at Lilo's Hawaiian BBQ in The Dalles - where every meal is an island-inspired feast.
Petite Provence Boulangerie & Patisserie
38.8 km
Discover the authentic flavors of France at Petite Provence Boulangerie & Patisserie, where every pastry is a work of art.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Outpost
36.9 km
Explore Outpost in The Dalles for unique finds and local treasures at unbeatable prices, making your shopping experience unforgettable.
Dinty's Market West
38.7 km
Explore the heart of The Dalles at Dinty's Market West, where local flavors meet everyday essentials in a welcoming convenience store.
Blossomly Boutique
38.8 km
Experience the unique charm of Blossomly Boutique in The Dalles, Oregon – a must-visit clothing store for fashionable finds and local creativity.
Red Wagon Antiques
38.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of vintage finds at Red Wagon Antiques, a must-visit destination for collectors and history enthusiasts in The Dalles, Oregon.
Urban Paper
38.8 km
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The Dalles Wedding Place
38.8 km
Explore The Dalles Wedding Place, where your bridal dreams come true with stunning gowns and personalized fitting services in a charming atmosphere.
Breezeway Antiques & Gifts
38.8 km
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Klindt's Booksellers & Stationers
38.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of books and stationery at Klindt's Booksellers & Stationers in The Dalles, Oregon, where literary adventures await.
Yesterday & Today Music
38.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of vinyl records and music memorabilia at Yesterday & Today Music in The Dalles, Oregon – a must-visit for all music lovers.
Vibe Consignment
38.8 km
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Emma's Bowtique
38.8 km
Explore Emma's Bowtique in The Dalles, Oregon, where stylish children's clothing meets quality and creativity for your little ones.
MsFitz Store Inc.
38.8 km
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Pretty Parties by Domx LLC
38.8 km
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Rebel Wear
38.8 km
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Gorge Pokeshop LLC
38.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Clubhouse at The Dalles Country Club
37.3 km
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Liberty Tapworks
38.8 km
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Route 30 Burgers, Bottles & Brews
38.8 km
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Clock Tower Ales
39.0 km
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The Station
39.4 km
Discover The Station in The Dalles, Oregon – your go-to lounge for delightful drinks, local events, and a cozy atmosphere.
Bluebird Inn
43.4 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Bluebird Inn, a cozy bar in Bickleton, WA, offering local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Everybody's Brewing
53.4 km
Discover Everybody's Brewing in White Salmon, WA: where craft beer meets gourmet cuisine in a lively, community-focused atmosphere.
Whiskey Tango
55.9 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Whiskey Tango, Hood River's premier bar for handcrafted drinks and lively entertainment.
Ferment Brewing Company
56.0 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of craft beer and delicious cuisine at Ferment Brewing Company in Hood River, Oregon.
Porron Cellars
56.0 km
Experience the essence of Oregon's wine culture at Porron Cellars, a cozy wine bar in Hood River, perfect for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Golden Rose Lounge
56.0 km
Unleash your inner superstar at Golden Rose Lounge, Hood River's lively karaoke bar offering affordable drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
64oz. Taphouse
56.0 km
Immerse yourself in the craft beer culture at 64oz. Taphouse, the perfect bar for locals and tourists in Hood River, Oregon.
Camp 1805 Distillery & Bar
56.1 km
Discover the essence of Oregon at Camp 1805 Distillery & Bar, where craft spirits and delectable dishes unite in a cozy atmosphere.
Oak St Pub
56.2 km
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Hood River Common House
56.2 km
Experience the best of Oregon's wine culture at Hood River Common House, a charming wine bar offering local wines and stunning views of the Gorge.
