A clear evening offers so many opportunities to sit outdoors and gaze at the starry sky. While we have an abundance of places to stargaze in Missouri – from River of Life Farm in Dora to our backyard, there’s one Missouri observatory that’s well worth a visit. Baker Observatory in Fair Grove, Missouri, welcomes the public on several evenings each year, and it’s one event you don’t want to miss.

Keep an eye on the calendar for one of the Public Observing Nights at Baker Observatory in Fair Grove, which is run by the Physics, Astronomy, and Materials Science Department at Missouri State University.
Facebook/Missouri State University - Physics, Astronomy & Materials Science Dept.
If you've not been to this observatory in Springfield yet, you're in for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Baker Observatory is home to Missouri’s only research telescope. The observatory’s collection of telescopes is used by students and researchers.
Google/Zachary G.
Before you head over to one of the Missouri observatory’s public observing nights, make sure you’re prepared. Sturdy shoes and dressing for the weather are recommended.
Google/Zachary G.
Have you seen Baker Observatory photos? You'll definitely want to take some of your own, too.

Related Stories

Red Shanty BBQ & Roadside Cafe Is A Roadside Restaurant In Missouri Worth Stopping For

Red Shanty BBQ & Roadside Cafe Is A Roadside Restaurant In Missouri Worth Stopping For

 This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In Missouri Will Transport You To Another World

This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In Missouri Will Transport You To Another World

 With It's Own Private Playground, This Incredible Restaurant In Missouri Is Perfect For Families

With It's Own Private Playground, This Incredible Restaurant In Missouri Is Perfect For Families
Bring a flashlight, but make sure it’s red. Don’t worry if you don’t have a red light. You can also put red cellophane or tape over the regular light to turn it red.
Google/赵晨鸣
Public observing nights usually run from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Reservations are not required, but keep an eye on the observatory’s Facebook page in case of a cancellation due to inclement weather.
Google/赵晨鸣
You can also call 417-836-5131 after 5 p.m. on the day you're set to visit. In case of cancelation on the original night, the Missouri observatory has an alternate date, usually the following evening.
Keep an eye on the observatory's website and Facebook page for public observing nights this year.
Facebook/Missouri State University - Physics, Astronomy & Materials Science Dept.
Learn more on the official website of Baker Observatory at Missouri State University. Or, stop by the Facebook page of Missouri State University.
Facebook/Missouri State University - Physics, Astronomy & Materials Science Dept.

Have you been to Baker Observatory in Fair Grove, Missouri? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! While you’re in the area, how about stopping by P&D Honey Farm in Fair Grove, a bee farm in Missouri? With all there is to do in the area, why not spend the night? Book a stay at charming local Vrbo.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Hidden Gems In Missouri

Beth Price-Williams | January 14, 2024

Are there any other places to go stargazing in Missouri?

A visit to Baker Observatory in Springfield, Missouri, is an absolute must if you enjoy stargazing, but that’s just the start. Here are several other prime spots to go stargazing in Missouri:

Are there any hidden gems in Missouri?

After you’ve added a visit to Baker Observatory to your bucket list, consider planning a visit to one of these hidden gems in Missouri:

  • Bennett Spring State Park in Lebanon is a prime destination all year, offering trout fishing, hiking, and camping.
  • Go stargazing at River of Life Farm in Dora, which boasts some of the clearest skies in Missouri.
  • Watch bison roam at Prairie State Park in Mindenmines. The park is particularly pretty during the warmer months when it’s brimming with wildflowers.
  • Discover Missouri’s very own Stonehenge with boats. Yep, Boathenge in Columbia is exactly what it sounds like (and you really have to see it for yourself).
  • Stroll along a picturesque path through the Precious Moments Garden in Carthage. You can even visit the gift shop and chapel.
  • Cool off in the pool into which Rocky Falls in Eminence drops if you visit during the summer. Otherwise, admire its sheer beauty in the winter, spring, and fall.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Baker Observatory, 1766 Old Hillcrest Rd, Fair Grove, MO 65648, USA