Adler Planetarium - Chicago, IL
Posted by: 
Hikenutty
N 41° 51.981 W 087° 36.407
16T E 449642 N 4635115
The Adler Planetarium, dedicated in 1930, was the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. It's collection of historic astronomical tools is considered one of the best in the world.
Waymark Code: WM1XXE
Location: Illinois, United States
Date Posted: 07/29/2007
Views: 32
The Adler Planetarium's collections of astronomical tools are still one of the most important collections in the world. Adults will find the historical aspects of the Adler fascinating, while the interactive exhibits will keep the kids excited. It's a great place for a family to spend the day.
One interesting thing at the Adler is that the theaters there show the progression of technology in planetariums. You can still enter and watch a short show in the Atwood sphere, constructed in 1913. The sphere consists of a 15 foot diameter orb with 692 holes drilled through its metal surface, allowing light to enter and show the positions of the brightest stars in the night sky.
The next theater is the Sky Theater, which is Adler's historic Zeiss planetarium theater. Although the equipment is new, the dome is the original space used for the star show offered when the planetarium opened.
The newest theater is the StarRider Theater, a virtual reality theater that shows films that make the viewer feel as if they are interacting with the scene they see above them. Folks who are susceptible to motion sickness might want to avoid the shows in this theater.
The building is monumental and grand looking as it perches on its location on Northerly Island, surrounded by Lake Michigan. From its spot on the island, the views of the city over the lake are magnificent. Make sure to take the time to wander around outside as well as within.
The "Official Tourism" URL link to the attraction: [Web Link]
The attraction’s own URL: [Web Link]
Hours of Operation:
Regular Schedule:
Monday - Friday
Saturday and Sunday
First Friday of month
9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
9:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Summer Schedule:
Monday - Friday
Saturday and Sunday
First Friday of month
9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
9:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
(Memorial Day through Labor Day)
Admission Prices:
Adults = $10
Kids = $6
Seniors = $8
See Website for package prices that include admission and special shows in the theaters.
Approximate amount of time needed to fully experience the attraction: Half of a day (2-5 hours)
Transportation options to the attraction: Personal Vehicle or Public Transportation
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