FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is it like to visit the Adler Planetarium?
  The Adler Planetarium is an international destination both as the western hemisphere’s first planetarium as well as one of its most advanced. It is located in one of the most beautiful places in Chicago, where visitors can see the whole city’s skyline as they dine in our cafe or shop in our Infinity shop. But most of all, it is the place in Chicago to explore space.
• I visited the Adler a while ago. Is there anything new there?
  Most of the Adler’s shows, exhibits and programs have been updated or completely transformed in the last few years. The Adler continues to have and exhibit one of the most extensive collections of historic astronomic devices in the world and continues to provide the awe-inspiring experience of exploring the night sky, but the Adler is now dedicated to the entire field of space science including human space exploration, robotic exploration of deep space and other planets, and new methods of remote exploration.
• We haven’t been to the Moon for decades and the night sky doesn’t change that much. Haven’t we pretty much discovered what there is to discover?
  Space science is one of the most rapidly evolving fields of science. New discoveries are taking place all the time. Progress is being made in exploring extra-solar planets, strange and beautiful new objects deep in space and water on Mars and the Moon, just to name a few. New robotic missions are launching regularly and NASA is planning the next phase of human space exploration. The Adler Planetarium is the place in the Midwest to stay up to date on all of these discoveries and missions.
• All of that stuff still seems kind of far away. What does space science have to do with me?
  Much of what we’re learning is as practical as it is intriguing. For instance, we continue to benefit everyday from engineering coming out of the space program. Telescopes trained on other planets and satellites looking back on our own continue to give us critical information on weather, climate, land use, etc. that is used by businesses, governments and farmers. New scientific discoveries from the International Space Station bring us advances in pharmaceuticals, material science, and medicine. And many people simply appreciate the continuing sense of awe and wonder that come from exploring our beautiful and fantastic Universe.
• Will there be anything my kids will enjoy / understand?
  The Adler believes that everyone should experience exploring space! The new Planet Explorers gallery and shows like One World One Sky are made especially for families with young children. There are usually guided activities throughout the day that young explorers can participate in. In addition, many of our transformed galleries have hands-on exhibits and knee-high activities that kids of all ages will enjoy and learn from.
• Sounds like there’s a lot of stuff for kids. But I’m interested in the serious, cutting-edge science. What is there for me?
  The Adler is also a serious research institution; employing a full staff of working astronomers and science historians. These professionals give public presentations almost everyday in our Space Visualization Laboratory, often joined by scientists from around the world. Our exhibits and programs also give visitors a view into the ongoing work of our staff, and the Adler is regularly the first place the public can experience certain information and images. Furthermore, we are developing a number of Citizen Science projects in which the public can directly participate in scientific research. These and many other opportunities make the Adler a destination for the beginner, serious amateur, and the professional.
• Do you have evening hours? Do you still have Friday evening events?
  The Adler Planetarium has monthly evening hours on the third Thursday of every month for our 21+ visitors at Adler After Dark.  Families can get an evening experience at the Adler during our Astro-Overnights.
• Where is the theater / restroom / cafe?
  The Adler has three world-class theaters, the 3D Universe Theater located on the staff level of the planetarium, the Definiti Theater located on the lower level and the Sky Theater located on the upper level.
  Our restrooms are located on the lower and mid levels of the museum. Please see our map for specific locations.
  Café Galileo's is located on the northside of the museum’s upper level.
• What exhibition should we go see / what shouldn’t we miss?
  The Adler offers a wide array of experiences, please read more about our exhibitions and shows to see what is most appropriate for your interests and needs.
• How long will it take me to visit the Adler?
  Depending upon your interests, your visit to the Adler could last a few hours or all day. With two floors of exhibitions and three world-class theaters, there is plenty to see and do.
• What’s going on today? This weekend?
  Please see our schedule on the Daily Activities page or call (312) 922 7827 (STAR).
• How do I get to the Adler?
  See the Directions and Transportation section of our Plan Your Visit page.
• Do you have any rides?
  Although we don’t have traditional rides, your visit to the Adler can be an exhilarating experience filled with hands on interactive exhibitions for you and your family to enjoy together.
• When is your telescope open?
  The Doane Observatory is open for Adler After Dark. Smaller telescopes are available for observing on our North or South Terrace during both Adler After Dark and Astro-Overnights and some weekdays from 1:00-3:00 p.m., weather permitting.