Celestial Travel is having a moment. As travelers look to plan their vacations in 2024, the sun, moon, and stars are being considered now more than ever. Even airlines are hopping on the trend by scheduling flights based around astronomical events, and they are also adding routes to destinations that have major events happening all over the world.
Which celestial city will you visit this year? (Photo Credit: Benjamin Davies)
Whether you’re looking to catch a glimpse of the magnetic Northern Lights for the very first time, or want to witness a meteor shower amidst the sparkling, lush beauty of Scotland, this is the year to do it.
Here are our top six celestial cities to visit in 2024.
Cleveland, Ohio
Astrology and outer space enthusiasts are ecstatic about the Total Solar Eclipse happening on April 8, with celebrations being planned around the world to commemorate this rare celestial event.
In Cleveland, witness the Total Solar Eclipse in April. (Photo Credit: Jordon Conner)
Cleveland is one of the most central cities along the Path of Totality, and hotels, bars, and restaurants throughout the city are preparing for the solar phenomenon with activities happening all week long. With viewing parties and special events happening to mark the occasion, a visit to Cleveland during the Total Solar Eclipse is sure to be — excuse the pun — out of this world.
Where to Stay: Kimpton Schofield Hotel
Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow boasts incredible man-made architecture like the Glasgow Cathedral and the People’s Palace And Winter Gardens, but just an hour outside of the city, Scotland’s natural beauty shines bright in the Galloway Forest Park.
In Glasgow, meteor showers will light up the sky in April and October. (Photo Credit: Alexander Andrews)
The nearly 300 square mile park is an International Dark Sky Park, where visitors can view meteor showers, comets, planetary conjunctions, and more in a completely light-pollution-free setting. After spending the day wandering the charming streets of Glasgow, head to Galloway in the evening to witness magical meteor showers like the Lyrid Shower in April or the Orionid Shower in October.
Where to stay: Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel
London, England
There is no better time to visit London than in the early summer months; the sun is glowing, the days seem endless, and the pubs are buzzing with locals and visitors alike. Long summer days give you more time to explore the city than ever, but the longest day of the year — the Summer Solstice — deserves a special celebration outside of the city limits.
In June, enjoy the Summer Solstice at a particularly unique locale. (Photo Credit: Hulki Okan Tabak)
This year the Summer Solstice lands on June 20, and thousands will travel 1.5 hours out of London to Stonehenge to welcome summer in this beautiful and historic setting. Join in on the celebrations with a visit to London and Stonehenge, and start your summer off with a bang.
Where to stay: Kimpton Fitzroy London
Omaha, Nebraska
The best time to visit Omaha, Nebraska is in the fall — without question. The eye-catching autumn leaves bring pumpkin patches, wineries, and Halloween festivals to this under-the-rader city, making it a prime destination for your fall travel plans.
In Omaha, the Harvest Moon shines bright in September. (Photo Credit: Steven Cordes)
The Blackstone District is alive with countless shops, restaurants, and nightlife ventures, so you will have tons to see and do in between your fall-themed activities. And, if you visit Omaha in September, you will catch the Harvest Moon on the 18th of the month — the perfect way to kick off spooky season.
Where to stay: Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel
Bozeman, Montana
Researchers have predicted that 2024 will be a peak year to see the Northern Lights across the globe. The increased activity of the lights means that the natural wonder may be visible from locations not usually reached in the US, and Montana is a great destination from which to see the phenomenon for yourself.
Experience the Northern Lights in Montana this year. (Photo Credit: Daniel Diermann)
Stay in downtown Bozeman, which is filled with inspiring galleries, museums, and relaxing hot springs, and spend the day immersing yourself in this eclectic western town. When the cover of darkness falls, head north to a light-pollution-free clearing, and wait for those sparkling green ribbons to dance the night away.
Where to stay: Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is known for its relaxing spa resorts and golf retreats, but it’s a great destination for nature and outdoor enthusiasts as well. An hour’s drive south will take you to Anza Borrego Desert State Park (the largest state park in California), or head north to Joshua Tree National Park for more dazzling desert views from day-to-night.
Witness a tapestry of stars in the desert of Southern California. (Photo Credit: Clarisse Meyer)
Head into the desert for incredible displays of nature during the Perseid Meteor Shower coming up this summer or the Geminid Meteor Shower in the winter. Whichever park you choose to visit, Palm Springs is the perfect home base for a stargazing trip in Southern California.
Where to stay: Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
