# McDonald Observatory

A premier astronomical research facility part of UT Austin, located in the Davis Mountains of West Texas. It offers world-famous public Star Parties and deep-space viewing through large research-grade telescopes.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: activity
- **Address**: 3640 Dark Sky Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734
- **Website**: https://mcdonaldobservatory.org/
- **Hours**: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Daily)
- **Entry**: Daytime passes approx $15; Star Parties approx $25.
- **Price tier**: moderate

## Family Amenities
- Public Star Parties
- Guided Telescope Tours
- Solar Viewing
- Interactive Exhibits
- Cafe and Gift Shop

## Insider Tips
Star Parties sell out weeks in advance—book early! The altitude is high, so bring layers even in summer. The night sky constellations tours in the amphitheater are legendary.


## Sources
- [McDonald Observatory Official Site](https://mcdonaldobservatory.org/)

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Source: Outline Travel. Last verified: 2026-04-07.
Permanent URL: https://outline.travel/destinations/west-texas/mcdonald-observatory/