Best Things To Do Under Starry Skies This Fall
Learn about the cosmos, trek moonlit trails, make glow-in-the-dark crafts, and find more ways to experience cool fall nights in Georgia.
When the sun sets in Georgia this fall, adventure doesn’t end – it just takes on a new glow. Find amazement in the constellations during astronomy nights, join full moon hikes through historic sites, and stay overnight at a zoo for an up-close experience with wildlife. Many attractions that usually close at dusk stay open late for special fall events, offering a rare chance to explore museums, gardens, and outdoor spaces under the stars.
Here are some of Georgia’s most fun, fascinating, and memorable nocturnal activities – none involving ghosts, ghouls, or jump scares. (For Halloween events, check this list.) So, come along, night owls; grab a flashlight, pack a blanket, and get ready to explore Georgia by moonlight.
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Stargazing & Astronomy Nights
Public Open House Nights at Hard Labor Creek Observatory in Rutledge
Take a deeper look into the night skies at public open houses of the Hard Labor Creek Observatory operated by the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Georgia State University. Look through telescopes away from the light pollution of nearby cities. August 15, September 19, and October 17, 2026 (weather permitting).
Astronomy Nights with the Coca-Cola Space Science Center in Columbus
Join the crew at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center for monthly Astronomy Nights, where you can gaze at the constellations, planets, and other bright objects in the evening skies. Bring your own telescope or look through one of theirs. August 8, 2026, at Providence Canyon (weather permitting), and August 22, 2026, in the Omnisphere Planetarium at Coca-Cola Space Science Center.
Partial Lunar Eclipse at Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville
As the premier science museum in the state, Tellus Science Museum regularly opens its observatory for visitors to view the night sky. Visit on the night of August 27 to view a partial lunar eclipse and learn more from WSB-TV Chief Meteorologist Emeritus Glenn Burns and NASA Ambassador Chris Thompson. August 27, 2026. 10 p.m.-2 a.m.
Nighttime Hikes & Tours
Full Moon Rides with Ride on Bikes in Columbus
Dust off your bike (or rent one for just $5) and enjoy an easy, leisurely ride with friends under the moon and stars in Uptown Columbus. Rides are around four to seven miles. Enjoy great music and stop to grab a beverage along the way. August 28, September 26, October 26, and November 24, 2026. 8 p.m.
Harvest Moon Walk at Lockerly Arboretum in Milledgeville
Join Director of Education Kensey Amerson to learn about moon phases, the science of the human eye, and why we don't see well in the dark, and the nocturnal creatures who thrive in dark conditions. Then, walk around the property and put your night vision to the test. This is an adult event. Sip a glass of wine or a cold beer and enjoy an evening walk. September 24, 2026. 7-8:30 p.m.
Overnight Events
Family NightCrawler Overnights at Zoo Atlanta
Spend the night at Zoo Atlanta and find out what happens when the sun goes down. Which animals stay up late, and how do others settle down for the night? And in the morning, how do animals greet the day? During the evening, participants can use night vision scopes and take guided tours behind the scenes. Designed for families with children ages 6+, participants will sleep indoors with sleeping bags brought from home. September 12 and November 7, 2026.
Sunset & After Dark Things to Do
Fernbank After Dark at Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta
Offered on the second Friday of each month, Fernbank Museum of Natural History presents a variety of unique after-hours experiences for grown-ups, including museum exhibits, live music, full bars, tapas menus, science demonstrations, and more. Each month highlights a different science theme and features fun and immersive programming for ages 21 and over. August 14 & September 11, 2026. 7-11 p.m.
Pumpkin Festival Drone & Light Show at Stone Mountain Park in Stone Mountain
Marvel at the choreographed, color-changing drones with themed songs, an immersive canopy of lights, unique video, special effects, and fireworks that will add a magical glow to your night. The Pumpkin Drone & Light Show is just one of many glowing experiences during the Pumpkin Festival, including glow-in-the-dark mini-golf and glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs. September 19-November 1, 2026.
Movies by Moonlight in Sandy Springs
Enjoy classic films outdoors on a giant 30-foot screen from the comfort of tiered lawn seating at the Heritage Amphitheatre lawn in Sandy Springs. Admission is free! Arrive early for trivia at sunset, and grab a snack and drink from the outdoor concession stands. Drinks available for purchase include the exclusive Moonlight Mocktail (ginger ale, grenadine, and a glowing ice cube). The amphitheatre opens at 7 p.m., and the movie begins after sunset. September 4 & October 9, 2026.
Great Pumpkin LumiNights at Wild Adventures in Valdosta
Explore acres of fall fun among hundreds of illuminated pumpkins, a 100-foot Twilight Tunnel, towering sculptures, glowing entertainment, and delicious pumpkin spice treats. All that in addition to the thrilling rides and wild animals at Wild Adventures Theme Park! Don't miss the LumiNight Skies Drone Show on Oct. 25. September 26-November 1, 2026.
Acoustic Sunsets at Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens in Hiawassee
Enjoy an open walk down the Hamilton Gardens Main Trail to Fishing Hole Rock. The trail is lined with colorful lights and torches. Bring a glass of wine or champagne from the wine bar. Come early to enjoy Acoustic Sunsets, a Thursday night concert series. August 27, September 3, September 10, October 1, & October 8, 2026. 6-10 p.m.
Fountain Show at Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta
Experience the magic of the newly enhanced Fountain of Rings show at Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park. The dazzling water and light spectacle has been reimagined with vibrant new colors, upgraded lighting, and synchronized music that brings the heart of Atlanta to life. Enjoy four shows daily. See the legacy of the 1996 Olympics celebrated in a whole new way!
Slack Tide Tiki Sunset Cruises in Midway & Richmond Hill
Book a charter sunset cruise along the Georgia coast on Slack Tide Tiki’s 23-foot saltwater catamaran. Enjoy the water after dark, watch the stars, and soak in the nocturnal coastal views. Tours depart from two locations: Sunbury Boat Ramp in Midway and Demeries Creek Boat Ramp in Richmond Hill.
