I am on a quest for that rarest of all beasts; a actual brick and mortar astronomy store

As much as we like to put down department store scopes; I rarely see anything better for sale anywhere other then the internet. I googled my state state this afternoon, and except for a few camera stores with a beginner scope or two; there was nothing.

Are there any real store anywhere that actually carry equipment that would be worth a visit. Is our hobby really that arcane? Has science in general drifted that far from popular appeal?

I love the internet as much as most; but, every so often it is nice to be able to kick the tires and buy something on the spot.

I think the Internet has had a big influence on Astronomy stores. I am fortunate, I have two good stores within 30miles of my house, Oceanside Photo and Telescope has been around a long time, it's a quality operation like Anacortes Telescope and Wildbird.

Jon

If you're ever in the DC area, check out Company 7 near Laurel, MD. Lots of heavy duty high-quality stuff on the floor.

have you checked for hobby stores around your area? Some times they sell scopes and related items. I'm like you, I like to see and try out things before I buy. I'm lucky here, as there is a hobby store here that carries most major makers and has a get together every Thursday night where they set up equipment in the outside lot and let you come try it out. Otherwise, it's the internet and mail order

Enrique Barrio said:I googled my state state this afternoon, and except for a few camera stores with a beginner scope or two; there was nothing. Are there any real store anywhere that actually carry equipment that would be worth a visit.

Enrique: Your profile indicates you're in Hialeah, Florida. Check out the outfit that advertises in Sky & Telescope magazine (see page 81 of the August issue) that is in Sarasota with branches in Ft. Lauderdale and Pompano Beach. Maybe one of those locations would satisfy your objectives.

Enrique Barrio said:

As much as we like to put down department store scopes; I rarely see anything better for sale anywhere other then the internet. I googled my state state this afternoon, and except for a few camera stores with a beginner scope or two; there was nothing.

Are there any real store anywhere that actually carry equipment that would be worth a visit. Is our hobby really that arcane? Has science in general drifted that far from popular appeal?

I love the internet as much as most; but, every so often it is nice to be able to kick the tires and buy something on the spot.

Then the place to start is at an astronomy club, rather than a retailer. Clubs often have members with scopes available for sale or lend, with which you get tech support from some one actually familiar with the scope. You will do no better with a local retailer. Clubs also often have state of the art equipment, with folks more than willing to share eyepiece time. Scope ownership not required.

I realize that not everyone is near a club. But club membership can be worth a bit of a drive.