Stargazing on the High Line

The city is supposed to be the worst place on earth to see the stars, which is exactly why the Amateur Astronomers Association sets up telescopes on the High Line. On Tuesday evenings in season, volunteer members line up their scopes on the old rail-line park near Little West 12th Street, just south of the Standard hotel, and invite anyone walking by to look. Saturn's rings, Jupiter's moons and the craters of the moon all cut through the light pollution, and the members are happy to explain what you are seeing.

It is free and there is nothing to book; just show up, join the short line at a telescope and ask questions. Sessions depend on clear skies and are called off in bad weather, so check the association's calendar the same day. The 2026 season ran into late October, with the last listed session on October 27. Come after sunset on a clear night near first-quarter moon, when the craters are sharpest. The association also runs free observing at other locations around the city, including Lincoln Center and College Point.