Last Updated on September 2, 2026 by Katrina
As the song goes, the stars at night are big and bright … deep in the heart of Texas. Indeed, the Lone Star State is home to more than 20 International Dark Sky Places, which include communities, parks, and other protected areas where you can do exceptional stargazing. Some prime areas are in West Texas, near the 800,000-acre Big Bend National Park, and in the Central Texas’s Hill Country. If you know where to base your trip, you can combine a comfortable stay with celestial entertainment. Here are some of the best hotels for stargazing in Texas.
Hotel Saint George (105 S Highland Ave.; 432-729-3700) Marfa
About 70 miles from Big Bend, the small West Texas town of Marfa is known for its cutting-edge art scene as well as stargazing and the quirky “Marfa Mystery Lights,” sometimes seen outside town. This sleek hotel features nearly 300 works by regional artists “including pieces in all 55 guest rooms,” writes Condé Nast Traveler, and it “houses the new location of the Marfa Book Company that hosts readings and lectures year-round.” One Tripadvisor writes that McDonald Observatory is “an easy one-hour drive” while another writes that “the beds are super comfortable, the food delicious, and it is the perfect home base to explore the Big Bend region. And what a great pool.” >> Book this hotel for less
Lajitas Golf Resort (21701 FM170; 877-525-4827) Lajitas
This 103-room, 27,000-acre resort sits between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, a gold-tier Dark Sky Park. A Google reviewer calls it “the perfect home base for exploring Big Bend. Everything felt relaxed without losing that upscale feel. Every meal we had was outstanding.” The resort, comprised of rooms, cabins, and villas, has three swimming pools, an 18-hole golf course, and a movie theater. “Unforgettable Texas scenery,” writes a Tripadvisor user. “Memorable sunset trail ride and the stargazing on the lawn was amazing. Loved waking up and seeing Big Bend National Park.” >> Book this hotel for less
Gage Hotel (102 NW 1st St., Highway 90W; 432-386-4205) Marathon
This 1927 Mission-style hotel offers a plush perch in the West Texas town of Marathon, located within the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve. “Great location for day trips into Big Bend,” writes a Tripadvisor user, “and an easy drive to Fort Davis for stargazing at the McDonald Observatory. The hotel restaurants and coffee shop were very good, which is important because other dining options in Marathon are limited.” Choose from hotel rooms and casitas, and enjoy the hotel’s pool, spa, and lawn games. “Our room was stunning,” writes a Google reviewer, “with a gorgeous little private patio perfect for stargazing.”
Albert Hotel (213 E Austin St.; 830-733-5000) Fredericksburg
This Hill Country boutique hotel sits in the heart of Fredericksburg, an International Dark Sky community that’s also a short drive from two Dark Sky Parks, Enchanted Rock and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. “The hotel’s interiors pay respect to Fredericksburg’s German roots while still oozing a fresh and modern aesthetic,” writes Travel+Leisure. The hotel, housed in historic buildings, has two bars, a spa, and four restaurants, including barbecue and a Michelin-starred chef. “From the front, you have no idea it’s so grand inside, and I absolutely loved the pool,” writes a Tripadvisor user. “The workout area wasn’t much but you’re going to get a workout just wandering Main St., climbing Enchanted Rock, or wine touring.” >> Book this hotel for less
SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort (16880 US-87; 888-412-7555) Fredericksburg
Choose from the 40 cabins and geodesic “nature pods” at this glamping-style resort in Hill Country that hosts “star parties” throughout the year. “The stargazing is simply spectacular,” writes a Google reviewer. “The kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need, making it feel like home. We loved seeing deer all around the property. Great if you want to be close to Fredericksburg yet far enough away to relax.” During the day, enjoy two pools, pickleball, and bocce ball. “So many amenities and meticulously kept,” writes a Tripadvisor user. “They make their own wine and it was incredible.” >> Book this hotel for less
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