The daytime tour is okay, definitely worth the money and you've gotta do it to see the incredibly cool telescopes and learn about the technology that makes them possible, but the real magic happens at night- tuesday, friday and saturday they have "star parties" where you go at night and look through telescopes.... but you don't really have to use... more

Well, I've either been close to McDonald Observatory, or camping at Fort Davis, and unable (because of time) to go to the Observatory. It is amazing! It is the greatest! I just wish we didn't have cloud cover, we did (when the clouds broke) get to see Saturn. I was disappointed that we didn't get to look throught the 84... more

If you have a vivid imagination when Cowboys & Indians existed or love to read books with peace & serenity this is the right place to be. I have been to McDonald Observatory Big Bend National Park 3 times they are so close in range and it never fails such a beauty just the view is like going into time... more

We bought a combo daytime and star party pass. The daytime pass includes a guided tour at either 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. If possible, take the morning tour since clouds sometimes move in during the early afternoon. The clouds will interfere with the solar viewing included with your tour. Our tour guide, Mark, was knowledgeable and encouraged questions. In... more

We (my husband, my 10 year old son, and I) visited the Observatory on a Saturday night in March, 2009. We recommend reading the Observatory's website prior to a visit as it is full of good information. We also had read the many reviews in Trip Advisor. You absolutely must dress for a chilly evening because the Observatory is on... more

Unbelievable! I saw a book in a bookstore that this is best place in the world for night viewing. I have to agree 100%. During the star gazing party, there were about 6 telescopes for public viewing. The moderator was very interesting. They had an auditorium for people to warm up, and the snack bar was open if you needed... more

the star party was a rip off, I stayed over an hour in freezing weather and NEVER got to see through a telescope. The instructor just would not shut up. I am not the only one that was disappointed, but probably the only one to complain!!!! DONT GO ==== PHIL ROLEN, DALLAS more

I had a great time at the observatory we went mothers day weekend last year. There was some kind of event going on there so everything was free. The visitors center was great the staff was very friendly. The lady at the front desk helped us with all our questions. We saw the moon from one of the mini teliscopes.... more

This is truely one of the best attractions in texas. Although it can't compete with Niagra Falls or the Grand Canyon, there is something to be said about seeing saturn and all three of its moons. All of the people in our family just loved it and it is truely a trip for all ages. more