In Iowa, the Leonids are best around 5:14 AM on the night of the peak (November 17, 2026), when the radiant stands about 64° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 13 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 6:29 PM to 5:29 AM, and the moon will be 51% lit and below the horizon at the best time.
Best time
5:14 AM
local time
Est. rate
13/h
dark sky
Radiant
64° high
toward SE
Moon
51%
down
Dark places to watch the Leonids in Iowa
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Black Hawk State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Lacey-Keosauqua State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Chicken Ridge Scenic Overlook Park | Scenic Viewpoint | 2 |
| Hill Little Sioux Overlook | Scenic Viewpoint | 2 |
| Backbone State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Lake Darling State Park | State Park | 3 |
| Springbrook State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Lake Anita State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Murray Hill Overlook | Scenic Viewpoint | 3 |
| Geode State Park | State Park | 3 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Leonids in Iowa?
Around 5:14 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.
Where can I see the Leonids in Iowa?
Dark, open places such as Black Hawk State Park, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park, Chicken Ridge Scenic Overlook Park.