Green Bank Observatory

The Green Bank Observatory is one of the most unique and awe-inspiring places I’ve ever visited. The sheer size of the Green Bank Telescope is mind-blowing — seeing it up close, framed by the fall colors of the Appalachian Mountains, is an unforgettable experience. The setting is peaceful, quiet, and surrounded by beautiful rolling hills that burst into color during autumn. The visitor center is excellent — very informative with exhibits explaining radio astronomy, the science behind the telescope, and the special “Quiet Zone” that protects it from radio interference. The staff and guides are extremely knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about the science they do here. One of the most interesting aspects is being in an area where there’s no cell service or Wi-Fi due to the National Radio Quiet Zone. It’s a refreshing digital detox — you really get to slow down, take in the surroundings, and enjoy the moment.

One star is for not having easy route to get to satellite and also not having some basic means of transportation to satellite. And they need to edit google maps because it was showing open but when we got there it was closed. Also we were struggling with network issues and had to go to a gas station to get WiFi. Other than that it’s fantastic nature out there and great place to drive around West Virginia.

This place is absolutely incredible! Once in a lifetime experience, and a MUST see! We seen videos on the GBO and were obsessed so we planned our honeymoon for West Virginia and Virginia so we could see it for ourselves! At over 17million pounds and 2.3 acres big, it is the largest rotating radio telescope in the entire world and to see it in person and learn about the history and the technology ban in the area, it was so amazing and impressive to be able to see and learn in person to say the least! Also, gift shop was super nice with great prices and the staff were very friendly snd knowledgeable :) 12/10 would recommend!

We truly enjoyed our time there. The tour guide was very fun a knowledgeable. The radio telescope was so impressive! Tours start at 10am and go every 2 hrs. (10, 12, 2pm etc)

A true treasure to visit, whether you check out the science center or walk along the trails. We did the 3-4 mile hike out and back to the Green Bank Telescope, and saw all the other telescopes along the way. They also use the road as a scale model of the solar system, complete with Pluto being out at the largest telescope. The nature trail on the way back made for a nice loop. Definitely want to come back and explore again! Just remember that when you approach the telescopes all electronics must be switched to off.

We took the bus tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and presented the information in an accessible and humorous way. It's hard to make research accessible and fun. She knew a lot about the history of the site and had great stories to tell that helped get an understanding of the research being done and the life of the resident researchers.

Such a neat place! Dont miss taking the tour so you can get up close and get narrated information at the same time. We learned a lot! Also the little café there had the best sub sandwich I've had in years. Delicious

Really interesting place, good gift shop and snack bar, great place to stop and walk to all or any of the telescopes. Beautiful setting and drive there.