This Star Party Turns a Nebraska Road Trip Into a Cosmic Adventure

Held during the darkest, clearest part of summer, the Nebraska Star Party is an annual, days-long gathering that takes place in late July or early August, depending on when the new Moon rises. Expert astronomers and wide-eyed newcomers alike come not just to see the stars but to share them in one of the best dark-sky spots in the Midwest. The setting is intentionally remote. You’re miles from a town, surrounded by wildflowers, water, and endless skies.

Because western Nebraska has little light pollution, you could simply pull over on a back road, park beside a field, and look up to see more stars than you ever imagined. But an official star party is something else entirely. Pros set up high-powered telescopes and cameras — some of which cost more than my car — while strangers quickly become friends under the canopy of constellations. There’s quiet teaching, friendly explaining, and even impromptu sky tours from passionate astronomers who just want to share their love of the stars. Ask a question, and someone nearby will have an answer, a story, or an invitation to take a look.

One man I met had driven all the way from Tucson for the second consecutive year. After more than 30 years of chasing stars, he still ranks Nebraska among his favorite skies. Events like this take place across the country every year, hosted in remote locations where the skies remain wild and undisturbed. But when the Milky Way emerges like a glowing river overhead, you’ll understand why people drive hundreds of miles to return to Nebraska’s Sandhills year after year.

Photo: A.J. Olnes/Shutterstock

If you’re thinking about attending the Nebraska Star Party, here are a few things to know before you head into the Sandhills:

• You’ll need a Nebraska State Park permit to enter Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area. These can be purchased online or at local vendors.
• You also need to register for the event at this link. Registration includes access to the event site, activities, and a helpful orientation for beginners.
• Next year’s Star Party will be held from July 12 to 17, 2026. Plan to attend at least one evening, but many choose to camp out or attend multiple nights to catch the clearest skies.
• Pack bug spray. Cicadas may sing romantically in the background, but the mosquitoes aren’t shy.
• Even summer nights can cool down fast, especially near the water. Bring a warmer layer to stay comfortable once the sun sets.
• >strong>Bring snacks and water. The event is remote, and you’ll want to settle in without needing to make a run into town.
• Use a red light to walk around the site. White lights, such as your phone’s flashlight or car headlights, disrupt the viewing experience for everyone. Respecting the darkness is part of the magic.

Even if you’re new to astronomy, you’ll fit right in. Come with curiosity and leave with a little more wonder than you arrived with.

Left: Dobby’s Frontier Town. Right: Carhenge. Photos: Chantelle Kincy

While the Nebraska Star Party doesn’t kick off until after dark, the daylight hours aren’t just for waiting. They’re for exploring. This corner of Nebraska is full of small towns with unique personalities, and your road to the stars might just surprise you before the first telescope is even set up.

Most travelers flying in from out of state will land in Scottsbluff. From there, rent a car and set your sights on Alliance, a detour that’s well worth the few hours on the road. Alliance is one of those towns that feels like perfect small-town America. Tree-lined streets, friendly folks behind the counters, and kids riding bikes through parks. But what makes it really stand out is its offbeat, creative streak. Colorful murals pop up across downtown, and at the Carnegie Arts Center, rotating exhibits feature local and regional artists, as well as offering space for classes for kids to learn to express themselves through artistic mediums.

Just outside of town, you’ll find a different kind of creativity at Carhenge, a quirky, full-size replica of Stonehenge made entirely from old cars. It’s equal parts sculpture garden, art installation and quirky photo op. Elsewhere, a walk through Dobby’s Frontier Town offers a step back in time with a collection of relocated pioneer buildings that feel like a living museum, bringing the Old West to life. Don’t miss the saloon, schoolhouse, and jail.

When you need a bite, stop by Hug in a Mug, where small-town warmth is served in a to-go cup. This cozy café is the perfect spot to stop for breakfast before visiting Carhenge or exploring downtown Alliance, with solid coffee and a little gift shop vibe that makes it feel like a find.

From Alliance, as you make your way closer to Merritt Reservoir, you’ll pass through Valentine, a place that bills itself as “small town, big adventures” and somehow still manages to exceed expectations. Waterfalls, scenic trails, and wildlife encounters make it a dream come true for outdoor lovers. It’s also home to some of the friendliest locals I’ve ever met.

Left: Smith Falls. Right: Golden Prairie Bison. Photos: Chantelle Kincy

Take your time getting to know Valentine’s outdoors, starting with the Cowboy Trail. Spanning across northern Nebraska, the Cowboy Trail is one of the longest rail-trails in the country. From Valentine, ride or walk to the Trussel Bridge for panoramic views over the Niobrara River. If you’d rather get out on the water, considering kayaking or tubing the Niobrara River. Paddle through scenic gorges, under historic bridges, and past waterfalls you can walk behind. Smith Falls, Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, is a must-stop spot along the route, and the whole float is peaceful and refreshingly uncrowded.

Another waterfall, Fort Falls, awaits a short, scenic hike from Fort Niobara, a former military outpost turned wildlife refuge that’s home to bison, elk, and prairie dogs. Just outside of Valentine, you can get up-close and personal with the fauna at Golden Prairie Bison, a family-run ranch that gives you the rare chance to hand-feed bison while learning about their land, history, and conservation efforts.

Between excursions, Valentine has several worthwhile food stops. In the morning, locals line up at Old Mill Deli for burritos, baked goods, and gourmet coffee that rivals any big-city café. Grab a seat if you can, or take your breakfast to go and enjoy it beside the river.

Bulldoggers BBQ is a veteran-owned spot that doesn’t even own a freezer — everything is made fresh, from the brisket to the scratch-made sauces. Founded by the mayor and brewed by a Pacific Northwest transplant, Bolo Beer Co. feels like the town’s living room. On Fridays, the smoker rolls out with something new each week — I got lucky with a smoked gyro that was outrageously good.

Niobrara Valley Vineyards. Photo: Chantelle Kincy

For something a little more sophisticated, head to The Prairie Club golf course. You don’t have to play a round to enjoy dinner here (though the pristine fairways and big skies might tempt you). The food is upscale without being fussy. Go for the steak or whatever the chef is featuring that night, and soak in the Sandhills views while you eat. Of course, if it’s sunset views you’re after, it’s hard to beat the award-winning pours at relaxed, rustic Niobrara Valley Vineyards.

Valentine also plays host to a great home base for Sandhills adventures. Right in the heart of town, the Niobrara Lodge has clean and cozy rooms, welcoming staff, and a location that promises you’re never more than a few minutes from trails, food, or starry skies. If you’re flying into or out of the area, Fairfield Inn & Suites Scottsbluff is another name to know. It’s a convenient and comfortable stopover with all the expected amenities — plus, it’s just a short drive from Scotts Bluff National Monument if you’ve got time to spare.

Merritt Reservoir State Park. Photo: Chantelle Kincy

The easiest gateway is Scottsbluff Regional Airport (BFF). From there, you’ll want to rent a car. Driving is essential here, not just for convenience but because the journey itself is part of the charm. Expect long stretches of open road, rolling prairie, and the occasional “Did you see that?” roadside oddity.

You won’t find public transportation out here, and honestly, you wouldn’t want to. This is road trip country. Bring a good playlist, fill the gas tank, and let the Nebraska backroads lead you somewhere unexpectedly beautiful.