Unique Chicago Date Ideas At The Adler Planetarium

Header image: a couple holds hands while looking at the Atwood Sphere in the Adler Planetarium’s exhibit, Chicago’s Night Sky.

Chicago is a city full of possibilities, opportunities, and adventures. But with so many options for places to go and things to do in Chicago, how do you find the perfect date spot amidst the lists of Chicago date ideas? 

The Adler Planetarium is the perfect place for a unique date where you’ll get closer to your loved one—and the universe! While all of our exhibits and shows are worth seeing, we think these five are particularly well-suited for a memorable date under the stars. Here’s your guide to must-see spots at the Adler for a truly unique Chicago date—whether you’re testing your astrological compatibility or enjoying skyline views.

A Unique Chicago Date Idea At The Adler Planetarium

Stroll Through Space And Time At The Adler

Image caption: A woman gazes at imagery of the universe on the giant visualization wall in the Adler Planetarium’s exhibit, The Universe: A Walk through Time and Space.

Where else in Chicago can you take a romantic walk through space and time?

In our exhibit, The Universe: A Walk through Time and Space, you’ll walk through the timeline of the universe, guided by immersive lights, sounds, and space visualizations. Then, you’ll look at things with a new perspective, zooming in on the smallest atoms and zooming out to the massive expanse of a galaxy on our giant visualization wall.

By the end of the exhibit, you’ll realize just how special it is that you two found each other in this massive, ever-expanding universe.

The Perfect Indoor Stargazing Experience In Chicago

Image caption: Three silhouettes in front of a blue and pink image of a nebula in one of the dome theaters at the Adler Planetarium.

There’s nothing more romantic than stargazing, but in Chicago, the light pollution outshines the stars. Luckily, at the Adler you can take your date stargazing without having to leave the city!

Skywatch Live is an immersive dome theater show that turns down the city lights and cranks up the stars so you and your date can appreciate the night sky like never before. This guided show takes you from the Chicago skyline, straight into outer space. You’ll learn what you can see in the night sky and even travel to see some distant planets. 

Step inside the dome theater, get comfy, and immerse yourself in breathtaking space visualizations. 

Feel The Thrill Of A Spacewalk Together

Image caption: A couple holding hands at the Adler Planetarium beneath colorful lights and stars.

Planet Explorers—our interactive exhibit for kids ages 3–8—might not sound like an obvious stop on a Chicago date. But tucked inside the spaceship is one of the Adler Planetarium’s hidden gems for adults: the Spacewalk Experience.

Hold your date’s hand tight as you step into this immersive space simulator. Whether you’re facing your greatest fears, chasing a thrill, or exploring your desire for space travel, this will get your adrenaline pumping!

Fun fact: Did you know that adrenaline is one of the hormones involved in creating feelings of attraction and emotional bonding? So if you’re looking for a Chicago date idea that will truly bring you closer, this might be your moment.

Explore Astrological Compatibility Together

Image caption: Inside the Adler Planetarium’s exhibit, Stars Aligned.

At the start of relationships, things can feel so wonderful that it’s as if your love was written in the stars. In Stars Aligned, our newest exhibit exploring the history of astronomy and astrology, you can see if it actually was!

Astrology has played an important role in our understanding of space. Explore the stars’ role in early modern people’s decision-making—including romantic compatibility and choosing wedding dates. You and your date will be able to decide for yourself if your relationship’s horoscope is worth listening to. 

Enjoy Chicago’s Museum Campus And Skyline Views

Image caption: A couple sitting on the sidewalk outside the Adler Planetarium, enjoying the view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

It wouldn’t be a true Chicago date if you can’t enjoy the beauty of the city. The Adler Planetarium’s location on the Museum Campus gives you everything you’re looking for on a date in the city: Lake Michigan and one of the most iconic Chicago skyline views. 

Whether you’re visiting during the day or our evening hours on Wednesday nights, at the Adler you’ll get to enjoy both the beauty of space and Chicago. After your visit, take a stroll hand-in-hand along the lake, dip your toes in Lake Michigan, and don’t forget to commemorate the day with a picture in front of the best view in Chicago. 

Plan your next Chicago date at the Adler Planetarium—get tickets today!