Observatory Park — Attraction in Montville Township

The park has nice level walking trails that vary from a meadow setting, a marshy area, and a wooded area. The trails have interesting themes that relate to astronomy. There are many educational signs to read with information about the planets. Near the parking lot, you will find a sun dial with information about how to use it. There are a few interesting sculptures, and one is surrounded by displays showing all the phases of the moon. Another shows the constellations. The main trail is surrounded by a beautiful meadow. I was there on a cloudy day, but if you visit on a sunny day, be sure to wear sunblock as you will likely be in full sun. The meadow trail is fairly flat, but is surrounded by various raised grassy knolls. On some of those, you will see some raised stones provide a sense of what it would be like to visit Stonehenge. As you walk around the trail, you will see full-size models of the four cornerstones of one of the great pyramids of Egypt. It's interesting to "connect the dots" to visualize the immense size of a pyramid. There are also signs near each model telling more about the pyramids and their ties to astronomy. While all the information is great, some of the signs are getting faded and need to be replaced before too long. The grassy meadow trail eventually loops over to a wooded trail which will lead you all the way to the Nassau Observatory station which is located about a quarter mile or so down Clay Street. There is also another part of the meadow trail that goes past a small pond. A pavillion with picnic tables is located near the parking lot. Restrooms are located in the Robert McCullough Science Center building. There is also the Oberle Observatory building, but I was there in the daytime so it wasn't open. I look forward to coming back one evening to look...

My Wife and I Visited the Park Saturday 7-22-2023 for the 1st time as we were traveling thru from out of state. I had wanted to check out this great asset the local community has for some time. This happened to be on a Movie Night which was not a big issue as the Sky didn't get dark until after the movie ended and the portable screen was put away. The Sky was very good. Milkyway was naked eye. Park Naturalist was a great help in getting us into an area behind of the screen (West) for us to set up our 20" dob before dark along with a look at the planetarium later in the evening. We meet some very interested young and older people that brought telescopes and cameras to view and photograph the night sky. It's great to see budding interest in the hobby of all ages. We stayed until about 1 am and caught a glimpse of Saturn before we left. We definitely will return in the Future.

P.S. It always nice to have bathroom facilities at an observing site. I would suggest that the Park install Red Lights inside the bathroom so you wouldn't Compromise your Night Vision when you enter...

To be completely transparent, I have never been here during the day. I cannot comment on the building interiors, their attractions, staff or cleanliness. That being said, this is absolutely one of the best spots in NE Ohio for stargazing. Granted, if you live in the surrounding Montville area then I guess you can just walk outside and get the same views. But for those of us in suburbia or more populated areas with much more light pollution, this is your spot. Whether you come here to shoot the stars, for a date night stroll or just to enjoy the view, your eyes will thank you. The walking trails throughout the park are gravel and there is random seating available along said trails. The center of the park is tall grass. Be sure you are prepared to come here. Check the weather for cloud cover. It’s also best to come during a new moon so you get the least light pollution possible. Finally, bring some bug spray for the warmer months. Oh and one more thing, be prepared to lose track of time. It’s...