Group Reservations

Schedule a tour to get a close-up view of our radio telescopes and enjoy the beautiful scenery our campus offers. Visit the Science Center to explore our Catching the Wave exhibit hall and learn more about the history, science, and technology of radio astronomy. Visit our Galaxy Gift Shop to browse a variety of souvenirs and educational toys and products. The Observatory offers a wealth of options for tourists and education groups alike!

Advance reservation is required for group visits, and we strongly recommend making reservation requests at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure sufficient time to process and confirm your request.

Who is Eligible?

Motor Coach Tours and other adult groups of 20 or more

• Our guided site tour is $8/person for groups of 20 or more. That’s a 20% discount! Tour operators and motor coach drivers are included at no cost.
• We recommend a 2hr visit to include a site tour and allow time for the exhibit hall and gift shop.

Student and Youth Groups

Tours and education programs are free with advance reservation for formally organized student and youth groups. You can find information about making a reservation below, but please see our Education page ^[1] for more information about who qualifies and what activities and program are available.

How Do I Make A Reservation?

For Field Trips and Tour Group reservation requests, please contact the Green Bank Science Center at 304-456-2150 or email gro.y1714112289rotav1714112289resbo1714112289bg@ti1714112289siv1714112289 ^[2]. You can also make your request directly through our reservation system ^[3], but it never hurts to call to check in on the status of your request. We strongly recommend making reservation requests at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure sufficient time to process and confirm your request.

For reservations related to Workshops and Scientific Meetings or Observatory Business, please contact our main offices at 304-456-2011 or email gro.y1714112289rotav1714112289resbo1714112289bg@ti1714112289siv1714112289 ^[2].

Please note that lodging is only available for individuals or groups visiting for Scientific Meetings and Workshops, Observatory Business, or Overnight Education Programs.

Stay for lunch!

Any groups of 10 or more who are just visiting for the day are eligible to order from the Starlight Café group rate menu. Options include a pizza party, boxed lunches, or a soup and/or sandwich buffet. If you are interested in this option, please ask for pricing and ordering details when you make your reservation ^[4]. 2 week notice required.

If your group is visiting for an overnight program, a meal plan will be included in your itinerary. Please be sure to request meal services when you make your reservation ^[4].

Science Center Hours

See our Hours and Admissions ^[5] page for our regular public hours. Group tours and field trips can be requested for any day of the week, even if the Science Center is not open to the public, but all requests are subject to availability and require 2 weeks advance notice.

Current Hours. Please see Science Center Hours and Admissions ^[6] for seasonal hours and holiday closures.