Green Bank Observatory

Green Bank, WV
Green Bank telescope

Come enjoy the Green Bank Science Center, featuring hands-on exhibits and displays that introduce you to the science of radio astronomy while you play! Discover what radio waves are, how the Green Bank Telescope works, and what radio astronomers have learned about the universe.

Admission to the Science Center and the hands-on Exhibit Hall is free! The Green Bank Science Center is the starting point for your guided tour of the Green Bank Observatory site. Your personal guide will introduce you to the fascinating world of radio astronomy and feature science demonstrations and a short film about the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT). Your tour continues with a bus excursion through our gates into the RFI-restricted Zone for an up-close look at our telescopes from the pioneering instruments of the 1950s to the world's largest fully-steerable telescope, the GBT. Enjoy a bite to each at our Starlight cafe featuring a full service menu-from lattes to fresh salads and burgers, you'll find something for everyone!

Trip Inspiration

Pick from these 4 stays for your next Visit to Southern West Virginia

With so many excellent overnight destinations, Almost Heaven makes it easy for anyone to feel like they have found their new favorite spot....

Read More

This West Virginia Lakeside Retreat is Calling Your Name

The sun is shining bright in Almost Heaven, and we are ready to start the summer with a trip to the lake. Nestled in the heart of West Virg...

Read More

An ancient underground ocean in West Virginia?!

Did you know an ancient ocean trapped below the Appalachian Mountains lies right here in the heart of the Kanawha Valley? That's right! J.Q...

Read More

Hit The Green at This WV Golf Destination: Fisher Mountain

Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia sits Fisher Mountain, a picturesque golf club and community that's almost too stunning to bel...

Read More

5 Unique, Quirky and Local Dining Destinations to Visit in West Virginia

It's no secret that West Virginia is jam-packed with delectable, unforgettable and local flavors. From sweet to savory, there is always a m...

Read More

Visit West Virginia's Family Friendly Exhibition Coal Mine this Summer

As the sun shines brighter and the days get longer, fulfill your wanderlust with a trip to Beckley in Raleigh County. Between cultural char...

Read More

5 Reasons Why Off-roaders are Flocking to West Virginia's Hatfield-McCoy Trails

If you have yet to go off-roading at West Virginia's ultimate network of ATV, UTV, ORV and dirt bike trails, then you haven't experienced t...

Read More

These Cabins, Hotels & Resorts Make for the Perfect Summer Stay in West Virginia

Ready for a summer getaway like no other? Run for the rolling hills of West Virginia! Whether you're looking for a charming hotel for one, ...

Read More

These 8 Summer Adventures are Calling You to West Virginia

While adventures are everywhere, only West Virginia can let you experience true summer freedom from start to finish. You'll be pleasantly s...

Read More
More Inspiration