Who says that you need to go camping or head into the wilderness to enjoy the beautiful night sky? There are amazing planetariums across the country where you can get your fill of constellations, planets, and stars. Ready to learn more?
Hayden Planetarium (New York, NY)
The Hayden Planetarium/ Big Stock Photo: ©SeanPavonePhoto
The Hayden Planetarium is in the American Museum of Natural History, right in the middle of Manhattan. This popular stargazing spot offers a chance to enjoy the wonders of the vast night sky. It provides Astronomy Live programs and the Frontiers Lecture series. The series welcomes renowned astrophysicists to share the latest developments in their field.
Samuel Oschin Planetarium (Los Angeles, CA)
As part of the iconic Griffith Observatory, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium currently offers multiple showings of three different presentations per day. There’s Centered in the Universe, Water Is Life, and the Light of the Valkyries. The planetarium boasts an aluminum dome, nearly 300 seats, and is equipped with a Zeiss star projector. Plus, a live narrator guides visitors through every single show.
Albert Einstein Planetarium (Washington, D.C.)
The Smithsonian’s planetarium offers free shows daily. There are also 25-minute cinematic experiences. Some examples are Journey to the Stars and Dark Universe. They take movie-watching to a whole new level. In fact, the 77-foot digital dome is the only full-dome theater in the city.
Adler Planetarium (Chicago, IL)
Adler Planetarium/ Big Stock Photo: © elesi
Built in the 1930’s, The Adler is the first planetarium in the western hemisphere and also a National Historic Landmark. It is located on Chicago’s Museum Campus which includes The Field Museum and John G. Shedd Aquarium.
Burke Baker Planetarium (Houston, TX)
This state-of-the-art space in the Houston Museum of Natural Science boasts the most advanced simulator on the entire planet. Known as the SkySkan DigitalSky field projector, this technology is about as close to the actual cosmos as you’ll get in a planetarium. Not only that, but the dome is the site of training for NASA astronauts. So, you know it’s got some cred.
Morehead Planetarium and Science Center (Chapel Hill, NC)
It’s the best of both worlds here. You’ll enjoy a planetarium and a science center with unique exhibits and multiple dazzling star shows. Adults and older teens will enjoy the Starry Nights program. It is held every evening and helps attendees identify important constellations and planets in the solar system. The Morehead planetarium also has the distinction of being the first planetarium in the South, making it even more special.
Interested in reading more posts about stars? Find out where you can see the Milky Way from, and check out these National Parks for outdoor stargazing.
