Where to Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower with Kids

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It’s worth keeping the kids up late for this one.

Credit: Raman Deep

Pack the blankets and hot cocoa for an evening of sky-watching during the annual Perseid meteor shower. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy this spectacular show.

Mark Your Calendar

The peak viewing night this year is August 11-12. As soon as the stars are visible, NASA says you can see up to 100 meteors per hour (emphasis on the “up to” — I would suggest lowering your expectations).

If it’s impossible for your kids to stay up late, just wake them early instead; the pre-dawn hours are prime viewing, especially after the moon sets at midnight this year.

Speaking of marking your calendar, the 2028 Perseids should be spectacular. I’ve got a reminder set for January 2028 to book a campground for mid-August. Perhaps I’ve just outed myself as an over-planner, but if you’re a kindred spirit, I see you.

Seek out the Dark

We love the city, but light pollution puts a real damper on a meteor shower. Rooster Rock State Park and L.L. Stub Stewart State Park are both local sky-watching favorites, but any place far from city lights will do the trick. This year OMSI is hosting a Perseid Meteor Shower Watch (UPDATE: CANCELED) on August 12, at Rooster Rock. Here’s the thing, though — it’s really hard to get a parking spot at these prime viewing spots. I recommend arriving early, and packing a picnic dinner.

I hate competing for parking, which is why I prefer to plan a camping trip around the Perseids. It didn’t happen for us this year, but if you can swing it, camping is the most stress-free way to enjoy the meteor shower.

Once you’re in a dark spot, where should you look? The Perseids will come in bright streaks from the direction of the constellation Perseus. Can’t even find the Big Dipper? Download the SkyView app to find constellations with ease. 

Give Your Neck a Break

You won’t want to look away, so bring a blanket or reclining chair so you can be amazed in ease.

Be Patient

There will be lulls. If you’re worried your kids will be squirmy, download an audiobook or podcast for them to listen to while they wait for the sky to light up. The Perseids make an appearance in the children’s novel Then There Were Five by Elizabeth Enright, and Brains On is a popular podcast for budding scientists.

Set Expectations

Wildfire smoke and moonlight can obscure the view. Keep an eye on the weather and wildfire updates in your viewing spot of choice. Worst case scenario, you can watch the Perseids online from the comfort of your home. 

Meg Asby
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