Where to Watch the Lyrids Meteor Shower in Florida

While the new moon will help with visibility, for best viewing it’s important to get as far away from light pollution as possible.

Do you like to stargaze? If so, you’re in luck because this year’s Lyrids meteor shower, April 15-23, promises to put on quite the show as it coincides with a new moon on April 19, which will make the meteors more visible in the dark sky.

The Lyrids—first recorded by the Chinese in 687 BC—are one of the oldest known meteor showers.

The meteor shower is expected to last about two weeks, but the best days for viewing are April 21-23 between late evening and early dawn. It’s common to see 10-15 Lyrids per hour, but sometimes there are surges of up to 100 per hour. 

While the new moon will help with visibility, for best viewing it’s important to get as far away from light pollution as possible. And if you’re lucky to live near a dark sky destination (certified by the International Dark-Sky Association) you’re in for a real show. Here are the best places to view the Lyrids meteor shower:

Dark Sky Places in Florida

Big Cypress National Preserve
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park

Other Great Places in Florida to Stargaze 

Chieflands Astronomy Village
Everglades National Park
St. George Island
Ocala National Forest
Zolfo Springs
Big Pine Key
Cedar Key
Sebastian Inlet
Santa Fe River