Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum
Quick Facts
- Location
- USA, Chicago
- Category
- Museum
- Duration
- 1.5-2 hours
- Opening Hours
- Daily 9:30-16:00, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
- Ticket Price
- Adults about $25, children (3-11) $20, all-access pass about $35
- Address
- Adler Planetarium, 1300 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
- Coordinates
- 41.8664, -87.6066
Introduction
The Adler Planetarium, on Chicago lakefront Museum Campus, opened in 1930 as the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere and one of Chicago top three museums. Named for Max Adler and designed by Ernest Grunsfeld Jr., its dodecagonal dome blends Art Deco style with astronomical symbolism. The core is the Grainger Sky Theater, a 21-meter dome projecting realistic starscapes and cosmic imagery, where reclined visitors seem to glide through the galaxy. Beyond sky shows, interactive exhibits include the Doane Observatory with real telescopes for public solar and night viewing, Our Solar System where visitors drive Mars rover models and feel planetary gravity differences, and Planet Explorers, a space adventure playground for young children. The Adler sits beside the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium, forming Chicago lakefront museum trio. The lakefront walk outside offers a classic postcard view of the skyline, and the evening sky theater is a romantic date venue.
✨ Highlights
🛈 Practical Info
💡 Tips
FAQ
What are the opening hours of Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum?
Daily 9:30-16:00, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
How much is the admission for Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum?
Adults about $25, children (3-11) $20, all-access pass about $35
Any practical tips for visiting Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum?
Grainger shows run at fixed times, check the schedule to plan your visit If seeing sky theater and special exhibits, the all-access pass is better value
How long should I spend at Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum?
A typical visit takes 1.5-2 hours.






