This Wisconsin Yurt Is Made for Stargazing

Look up. Not just at your phone, not just to avoid tripping on the sidewalk, but really look up. Look up to people who dare to be themselves. Look up to brilliant minds who speak for those who can't. Look up to the baby goats at the petting zoo who somehow understand the human soul better than most therapists. But most importantly, look up to the night sky.

Wisconsin, as it turns out, is one of the best places in the country to do just that. It’s home to Newport State Park, one of America’s most incredible Dark Sky Parks - a place where artificial light barely exists and the cosmos puts on a show every night. But you don’t need to drive all the way to Newport to be dazzled. Wisconsin has plenty of open spaces where you can simply step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and marvel at the Milky Way in all its glory. Just pick a clear night, hop in the car, and drive until the city lights fade into nothing. Park, tilt your head back, and boom: you’ve got a front-row seat to the universe.

But if you really want to take stargazing to the next level? You’re going to need a yurt.

Nestled in Caledonia, Wisconsin, this Airbnb yurt offers a secluded, immersive outdoor experience without sacrificing comfort. It’s called the Stargazer & Dream Catcher, and it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve temporarily abandoned modern life in the best possible way.

You have two glamping tents to choose from (or both, if you bring friends). The StarGazer tent features a queen bed with a goose-down duvet, a cozy electric fireplace, and, get this: a clear roof so you can literally fall asleep under the stars.

The adjacent Dream Catcher tent is a whimsical, colorful retreat, especially great if you’ve got kids tagging along. Think of it as the coziest, most magical camping experience - except you don’t wake up with a tree root lodged in your back.

In the morning, wake up to the sounds of birds chirping, stretch out on a sun lounger, and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while you soak in the serenity of nature. Just make sure you don’t get too relaxed - you’ve got a whole day of adventure ahead.

If you want to stretch your legs before another night of cosmic wonder, head to Seven Bridges Trail in nearby Grant Park. This trail is famous for its scenic wooden bridges, peaceful streams, and the kind of picturesque forest views that make you want to quit your job and become a full-time nature poet. It’s an easy hike... just enough movement to feel accomplished, but not so much that you regret that extra s’more you had last night.

After a night of stargazing, spend the day treasure hunting at 7 Mile Fair, Wisconsin’s ultimate flea market. From antiques and handmade goods to delicious street food like tamales and barbecue, it’s the perfect spot to shop, snack, and refuel... because, let’s be honest, contemplating the vastness of the universe on an empty stomach is just bad science. Then, gear up for another night under the stars, where the only thing brighter than the constellations might be your latest flea market find.

Wisconsin’s night sky is waiting, and there’s no better way to experience it than from the Stargazer & Dream Catcher yurt in Caledonia. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just someone who likes the idea of staring up at space and feeling small in the best way, this is the ultimate getaway.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your coziest sweater, grab some marshmallows, and book your stay in this stargazer's dream in Wisconsin. Because, trust me—nothing beats falling asleep under a sky full of stars.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.