Skip to Content
Enter
Skip to Menu
Enter
Skip to Footer
Enter

It's Time for a Glow Up ⭐

Noctourism spots where nightlife just hits different.

By
Editors of Late Checkout
January 15, 2025
https://latecheckouttime.com/articles/travel-having-a-moment-noctourism-travel-trend
Photo credit:

Later sunseekers — we’re all about that midnight glow.

According to Booking.com, “noctourism,” or nocturnal tourism, is the latest travel trend making waves in 2025. Travelers are pursuing darker skies and once-in-a-lifetime nighttime experiences. Nearly two-thirds (62%) are heading to “darker sky destinations,” with starbathing (72%), guided stargazing tours (59%), rare cosmic events (59%) and constellation tracking (57%).

Photo credit: Rebecca Douglas

Climate change is making nighttime adventures even cooler — literally. With rising temps, 54% of travelers are leaning into after-dark plans, while 42% seek chillier destinations. It’s not just about beating the heat; it’s about dodging UV rays. A solid 61% are cutting sun time, and 57% are sticking to evening and early morning activities. Sunburn? Not on their itinerary.

With nighttime adventures no longer reserved for da clerb,  here are a few spots to love the nightlife:  

Americana Motor Hotel, Flagstaff, AZ

This revamped motor hotel off of Route 66 combines the thrill of the open road and wide-open skies. Close to the Grand Canyon, the hotel has become known for its  legendary stargazing, even offering “Celestial Saturdays,” where guests can enjoy an out of this world experience with cultural astronomer Dr. Danielle Adams.  

Rates start at $90, book here.

Under Canvas Moab, UT

This Dark Sky-certified destination is serving major cosmic vibes. Book an Under Canvas Stargazer Tent for the Total Lunar Eclipse (March 13–14) or International Dark Sky Week (April 21–28, aka Global Astronomy Month). Open March 6 – October 27, Under Canvas takes glamping to the stars with luxe tents featuring stargazing windows.  

Rates start at $199, book here.

Malangen Resort, Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø is basically the Beyoncé of northern lights destinations — always in the spotlight. Smack in the aurora zone, it’s your VIP pass to a killer light show. Meanwhile, Malangen has harbor views so dreamy they belong on your Insta grid, plus swoon-worthy sea and mountain backdrops. It's giving peak winter wanderlust energy. Peak snow globe aesthetic, unlocked.

Rates start at $280, book here.

Hótel Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Hotel, Iceland

Book a flight to Iceland and head straight to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park to see the Nothern Lights. This place is pure magic — glowing red, green, blue and purple auroras reflecting off icy waters. It’s a photographer’s dream. Pro tip: The auroras are brightest from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., September through mid-April.  

Rates start at $205, book here.

Mount Mitchell Eco Retreat, Burnsville, NC

Blue ghost fireflies bring the vibes every summer in Western North Carolina’s DuPont and Pisgah forests. These low-key legends hover just above the ground on humid nights, glowing an eerie blue for up to a full minute. Catch the glow on tours at the Cradle of Forestry or Grandfather Mountain. Spots fill fast, so don’t sleep on it.

Rates start at $124, book here.

get on the list.

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy.