Where To See The Stars In Bergen

Check out these local observatories and see the night sky as you’ve never seen it before.

The night sky is always a wonder—but this weekend, you’ve got even more reason to look up. This Sunday, July 20, marks 56 years since Neil Armstrong took that legendary “one small step for mankind” during the first moonwalk. In honor of the milestone, National Moon Day—established by the United Nations in 2021—invites us to celebrate our connection to the cosmos.

There’s never been a better time for stargazing, and Bergen is home two observatories that can help you see the universe in a whole new light.

The Emil Buehler Trust Observatory. Part of the Bergen Community College campus in Paramus, this observatory boasts a set of three 16-inch Meade LX-200 fully automated telescopes, which offer incredibly clear views of celestial objects. You can stop by special, free public viewing nights from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. throughout the rest of the summer; upcoming dates include July 24, July 31, Aug. 7 and Aug 14. Depending on when you stop by, the telescopes will focus on binary star Albireo, stars Mizar & Alcor, parts of the Andromeda galaxy, the moon, Saturn, the Ring Nebula in Lyra and much more. For more information, see the observatory’s website and Facebook page.

William D. McDowell Observatory. Operated by the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) in Lyndhurst, this center allows you to see the night sky here for no cost every Wednesday year-round, weather permitting. It features a research-grade Classical-Cassegrain telescope that’s capable of viewing objects millions of light years away, and you can see galaxies, important star clusters, other planets and more through its lens. Nighttime hours in July run from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., and August hours are 8 to 10 p.m. It’s recommended that guests visit earlier in the evening. Check out the website for more details.

Of course, you also don’t need a research-grade telescope to enjoy the majesty of the night sky, even though our county has more light pollution than most. Here are two other spots for evening star gazing.

• Overpeck Park, Ridgefield Park. Though too bright for unobstructed views of far-away galaxies, you can still see the stars twinkle at this outdoor leisure staple.
• Ramapo Valley Reservation, Mahwah. This park closes soon after sundown unless you have a camping permit, so be quick. With far fewer lights, the sky here is a treat.

Do you have a fantastic shot of the night sky? Share it with us on Instagram @bergenmagnj!