Adler Planetarium is more than just a museum—it's America's first planetarium and a pioneering space science center. Since opening its doors in 1930 on Chicago’s lakeshore, Adler has inspired generations to look up and explore the cosmos. With interactive exhibits, immersive sky shows, and hands-on science labs, Adler makes the universe accessible for everyone, from curious kids to seasoned space geeks.

Recommended For

If you're in Chicago and even remotely interested in space, Adler Planetarium is a can't-miss destination. It’s especially great for:

  • Families with Kids: Packed with interactive exhibits for young explorers aged 3 and up.
  • Science Enthusiasts: Dive deep into astronomy, physics, and space tech with immersive experiences.
  • History Buffs: Discover rare astronomical tools and the stories behind them.
  • Educators & Students: Engage in hands-on learning, field trips, and educational programs.

Top Exhibits & Experiences

Adler’s dynamic galleries and labs make science come alive. Here are just a few of the must-sees:

  • Mission Moon: Learn about space travel through the eyes of astronaut Jim Lovell. Try saving Apollo 13 and explore the Gemini Spacecraft.
  • Our Solar System: Touch moon rocks and meteorites, create a crater, and even feel pieces of Mars.
  • Community Design Lab: Conduct experiments using pipe cleaners and marshmallows—or build a telescope mount for your phone.
  • The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time: Explore 13.7 billion years of cosmic history, from the Big Bang to black holes.
  • Planet Explorers: Designed for ages 3–8, this space-themed playground teaches through climbing, exploring, and blasting off.
  • Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass: Discover the tools that revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos.

Immersive Sky Shows

Adler’s sky shows are a visitor favorite—perfect for stargazing indoors:

  • Planet Nine: Explore Pluto, dwarf planets, and the mysteries still hidden in our solar system.
  • Cosmic Wonder: Dive into the creation of stars and ancient sky charting practices.
  • Destination Solar System: Travel to the year 2096 on a futuristic space tourism adventure.
  • Sky Watch Live!: A live, real-time look at the night sky over Chicago, minus the city lights.
  • Welcome to the Universe: An engaging live show that covers galaxies, star clusters, and black holes.
  • One World One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure: Perfect for young kids—join Big Bird and Elmo on a celestial journey filled with singing and dancing.

Special Features & Historic Treasures

  • Doane Observatory: Home to the largest aperture telescope in the region. Visit on Sundays (10am–1pm) to view the sun up close.
  • Historic Atwood Sphere: Chicago’s oldest planetarium lets visitors experience the night sky as it appeared a century ago.
  • Clark Family Welcome Gallery: A stunning digital art space made of aluminum and fabric—no two shows are ever the same.
  • Astronomy in Culture: Explore ancient stargazing practices with medieval sundials and celestial globes.
  • Space Visualization Lab: Meet real astronomers and tech experts as they develop new ways to visualize the universe.

Education & Outreach

Adler offers rich programming for learners of all ages, both onsite and virtually:

  • Early childhood programs and hands-on exhibits
  • Summer camps and overnight slumber parties for young space enthusiasts
  • Far Horizons: A teen-led program that sends real experiments into the stratosphere via high-altitude balloons

Collections & Research

Behind the scenes, Adler is also home to one of the world’s leading astronomy collections:

  • The Webster Institute for the History of Astronomy manages rare books, historic instruments, art, and archives
  • Appointments can be made to research or view pieces from the collection
  • Current initiatives include the digitization of celestial cartography for global access

Visitor Amenities

  • Café Galileo: Grab a sandwich, salad, or soup while enjoying views of the Chicago skyline
  • Gift Shop: Browse fun science-themed gifts and educational materials
  • Accessibility: The planetarium is fully accessible and family-friendly

Getting There & Contact Info

  • Address: 1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
  • Phone: 312-922-7827
  • Parking: Paid parking available nearby; public transit also easily accessible

Tip: Try to time your visit with a live sky show or observatory session for a truly unforgettable experience.

Plan Your Trip