History
We are Vanderbilt University's second observatory. The first was built about the time the university was founded. When that became outdated, Dr. Carl Seyfert persuaded members of the community to donate their time and labor to build a new state-of-the-art facility at the dawn of the space age.
Specialties
Crowning one of Nashville's tallest peaks, surrounded by scenic Radnor Lake State Park, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Vanderbilt University's Dyer Observatory is one of Tennessee's greatest treasures. Since its founding in 1953, Dyer has dedicated itself to inspiring the public through the wonders of astronomy and space exploration by offering telescope nights, open house tours, field trips, summer science camps, special lectures, and teacher workshops. Dyer connects with the community through the arts by hosting outdoor performances by local singer/songwriters and musicians during Bluebird on the Mountain and Opera on the Mountain concerts. Our rental spaces are popular for both large and small gatherings for those seeking seclusion and an unparalleled atmosphere.