Lowell Observatory

Top 1% of attractions in Flagstaff
8/10

What the experts agree on

Historic 1894 observatory where you peer through world-class telescopes to observe stars and planets, famous for discovering Pluto and studying Mars from this hilltop landmark west of downtown Flagstaff.

12 expert reviews

“This Arizona observatory is famous for investigations into Martian life, and as the place humans first spotted Pluto.  ”

– Atlas Obscura

Fodor's Fodor's
"In 1894 Boston businessman, author, and scientist Percival Lowell founded this observatory from which he studied Mars." Full review
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
Top choice
"Sitting atop a hill just west of downtown, this national historic landmark – famous for the first sighting of Pluto, in 1930 – was built by Percival Lowell in 1894." Full review
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
0 Stars
"Astronomer Percival Lowell established this facility in 1894, 1mi west of downtown Flagstaff." Full review
U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report
3.0
"At the Lowell Observatory, visitors can conjure their inner-astronomer by peering through world-class telescopes and sitting in on lectures on topics like black holes and the history of Pluto." Full review
Frommer's Frommer's
"The facility consists of outdoor displays, several observatories, and a visitor center with lots of fun and educational exhibits...the main attraction is the chance to observe the stars and planets" Full review
CNN CNN
"Flagstaff’s Lowell Observatory made international headlines in February of 1930 when astronomer Clyde Tombaugh spotted the distant “Planet 9” from a telescope that stands on the grounds..."
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Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
"Don’t miss a chance to see where Pluto was discovered during a tour of Lowell Observatory"
CNN CNN
"Enjoying lovely landscapes and the wonders of the cosmos is easy in Flagstaff, thanks to the San Francisco Peaks, numerous national monuments, the Lowell Observatory and Flagstaff's status as a Dark Sky City"
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CNN CNN
"Cadigan mentions Lowell Observatory as a place she often visits with her two kids for science-based summer camps or one-off astronomy programs aimed at locals and out-of-town visitors. In..."
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Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
"When guests book, there's an option to add tickets to Flagstaff's historic Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, and a "Meet a Scientist" event"
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