AstroTours.org Named One of Boulder’s Best Valentine’s Gifts for Outdoor Lovers

We’re thrilled to share that AstroTours.org was recently recognized by AboutBoulder.com as one of Boulder’s top adventure gift ideas for Valentine’s Day! In their article, “Boulder’s Best Valentine’s Gifts for Outdoor Lovers: Top 7 Adventure Picks,” our Private Stargazing Tour was spotlighted as a unique, romantic, and truly memorable way to celebrate the holiday. We were also featured on NewsBreak, further highlighting our cosmic date-night experience.

Valentine’s Day is all about creating new memories with the ones you love, and our stargazing adventures do exactly that. Imagine sipping hot cocoa as you admire Jupiter’s moons or the Orion Nebula through our high-powered telescopes, all while staying cozy under blankets. Our professional astronomers lead you on a journey across the night sky, revealing constellations and sharing fascinating astronomical stories.

We’re honored to be listed among other incredible outdoor adventures in Boulder. If you’re looking to elevate your Valentine’s Day this year—or any special occasion—consider a Private Stargazing Tour with AstroTours. We can’t wait to help you create “out-of-this-world” memories that last a lifetime! Be sure to check out both articles linked above to see why AstroTours made the cut. Here’s to celebrating love under star-filled Colorado skies!

AstroTours.org Named Educational Tour Operator of the Year!

We’re thrilled to announce that AstroTours.org has been awarded Educational Tour Operator of the Year by the Corporate LiveWire Global Awards 2024/25. This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering immersive, hands-on stargazing experiences that enlighten and inspire curious minds of all ages.

From our regular tours in Boulder, Breckenridge, and Castle Pines, to special events and tailored private gatherings across Colorado, our mission has always been to spark wonder about the universe. Whether it’s exploring distant galaxies through high-powered telescopes or learning about constellations under the guidance of our professional astronomers, each program we create is designed to offer an unforgettable night (or day!) under the stars.

The Corporate LiveWire Global Awards is known for its thorough evaluation of businesses worldwide, inviting over 90,000 industry professionals and businesses to participate. We’re honored to have been recognized for our unique blend of entertainment and education—encouraging all who join us to deepen their understanding of the cosmos.

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported us along the way. We couldn’t have achieved this milestone without our incredible guests, partners, and the passionate astronomers who share our vision. Our team remains dedicated to expanding our tours, refining our programs, and continuing to offer top-notch stargazing adventures that connect you with the celestial wonders above.

Stay tuned for exciting updates and thank you for celebrating this win with us! If you haven’t yet experienced an AstroTours.org program, we invite you to join us and discover why we’ve been honored with this prestigious award. Clear skies and happy stargazing!

Boulder’s Best Stargazing: Winter Nights & Mountain Sights

Boulder’s Best Stargazing has a unique blend of dramatic foothills and surprisingly dark skies makes it a dream destination for star enthusiasts. Whether you’re on a mission to snap a Milky Way photo over the iconic Flatirons or simply want a quiet evening under shimmering stars, here are some prime spots around Boulder to add to your cosmic bucket list.

1. Flagstaff Road: Sunrise Amphitheater & Beyond Boulder's Best Stargazing

Why Visit:

• Panorama Point is often recommended, but going higher to Sunrise Amphitheater grants broader views.

• Keep driving past the Amphitheater toward Walker Ranch to find ridges that block city lights for an even darker sky.

Insider Tip: Arrive before twilight to pick a safe parking spot and layer up. Winds can be brisk at these elevations, making a warm coat and maybe a thermos of hot chocolate a must.

2. Chautauqua

Why Visit:

• Situated near downtown but still offering a clear view of the southern sky, relatively free from intense light pollution.

• The Flatirons create a stunning silhouette for astrophotographers.

When to Go:

• Fall evenings or predawn spring mornings are often best. That’s when the Milky Way can arch neatly over the Flatirons, giving you that jaw-dropping “Boulder meets the cosmos” shot.

Heads-Up: City lights will still glow to the north and east, but the south sky remains your celestial canvas.

3. Peak to Peak Highway Pull-Offs

Why Visit:

• Along the Peak to Peak Highway (Highways 7, 72, and 119), you’ll find multiple scenic overlooks boasting open horizons.

• These overlooks are further from Boulder’s core, so the light dome is smaller.

Insider Tip:

• Scout in daylight: It’s easier to identify a spacious, safe turnout before darkness sets in.

• Some overlooks might have partial tree cover, so find that open swath of sky for maximum star visibility.

4. Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP)

Why Visit:

• Arguably one of Colorado’s premier stargazing areas, with lofty elevations and impressive open spaces.

• The park often offers ranger-led astronomy programs (check their schedule or call the ranger station).

Pro Tip:

• If you’re not camping in designated sites, you can’t just park anywhere for midnight stargazing. But RMNP’s official campgrounds and guided astronomy events offer a perfect path to gaze legally and comfortably.

5. Need to Roam Further?

For broader horizons, check out my Colorado’s Celestial Wonders blog post, which covers iconic spots like Loveland Pass, Barr Lake State Park, and Great Sand Dunes National Park. (Hint: Loveland Pass is a personal favorite for those breathtaking high-altitude Milky Way nights.)

Winter Stargazing: Why the Chill Pays Off

For an in-depth look at why Boulder’s winter skies are extra special (and how to brave the cold), see my Winter Stargazing in Boulder article on About Boulder. Shorter days and crisp, stable air can make winter nights some of the clearest all year.

Quick Tips for Stargazing Success

• Mind the Moon: Around new moon phases, skies are darkest.

• Watch the Weather: Cloudless forecasts are your stargazing friend.

• Stay Warm: Night temps drop swiftly in the foothills. Layers are key.

• Red Lights: A dim red flashlight or phone screen filter preserves your night vision and keeps the environment dark.

Enjoy Boulder’s Night Sky with AstroTours.org

Even in a place as picturesque as Boulder, having a guided experience can reveal so much more. At AstroTours.org, we provide telescopes, laser pointers, and a seasoned astronomer who blends myth, science, and the sheer wonder of stargazing into an evening you won’t forget. It’s the best way to explore Boulder’s cosmic treasures—whether you’re eyeing the Orion Nebula or zooming in on Jupiter’s moons.

Ready to Discover More?Book a tour at AstroTours.org, and let’s turn the night sky into your personal planetarium. Because in Boulder, the adventure doesn’t end at sundown; it just gets brighter.