You may have seen a few geodesic domes previously without thinking much more about them. They were more common in the 70s as unique homes for the post-hippy. Geodesic domes are still a favorite shape of backyard play structures. Probably the most famous dome building is the Spaceship Earth ride at Disney World in Florida. Now, due to their design and some innovative marketing, domes are increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for dark sky vacationing.
In 2022, Hal Feinberg and his partners purchased 80 acres of a canyon east of Cannonville, with the intention of developing a dark sky resort. This resort will be similar to one they have near the Grand Canyon under clearskyresorts.com, where they have 50 canvas domes. Making the most of the stunning scenery near Bryce Canyon, they were intentional about locating the domes with yellow butte, red rock cliff, or hoodoo views. The stellar view they all have in common is the constellations seen best in remote areas away from light pollution.
The Cannonville one-of-a-kind glass dome structures are being built in two phases with three sizes of domes. Feinberg anticipates the first phase of 62 domes will tentatively be completed this season with 40 ready for occupancy summer of 2024. The second phase is an additional 28 domes potentially scheduled for completion in 2025.
Spaced an average of 75-100 feet apart the domes are located for optimal views and privacy. Ranging from 350 square feet to 790 square feet with a loft, these 2-, 4-, and 8-person domes have surprisingly spacious private bathrooms and kitchenettes. The 8-person dome is made of approximately 140 triangular-shaped panels, with 50% being tempered, dual pane, slightly tinted glass, and 50% wood composite panels in a metal framework sealed with black roof caulking.
Specialized for specific interests, three 70s-themed disco domes with sound-resistant walls, disco lights, and a dance floor are new to this resort. Another specialized dome planned for next year will be a sumptuous wedding dome where couples can trade vows with a stunning backdrop of red-rock formations.
Feinberg said, “We really are unique, and with the dome shape, our theme is futuristic. The goal for the guests is to experience the wow factor. There is nothing else like this in the world.”
They are providing a 2000-square-foot upscale restaurant with a panoramic view and a streamlined galactic coffee bar that looks like it came from a Star Trek episode. The restaurant seats 49 inside under the 28-foot ceiling and more outside on the patio under the stars.
Other perks the Clear Sky Resort will be offering are nightly s’mores, regular astrology presentations, and performances by a Native American flute player who also conducts workshops where participants can make their own flutes.
Whether visitors are curious about the wow factor and want steak or shrimp for supper or want to escape for a couple of days, they can share in Feinberg’s passion for geodomes and enjoy the beauty of Cannonville’s dark skies.
– The Byway
Feature image caption: A recent aerial view of the domes at the Clear Sky Resort near Cannonville. Only a few of them can be seen completed here, but the plan for the first phase is 62! Courtesy of Hal Feinberg.
Read a previous article about antoher Cannonville tourist development in Childs Family Opens Bryce Glamp and Camp.