Adler Planetarium, Chicago: Hours, Address, Adler Planetarium Reviews: 4/5
Adler Planetarium
Adler Planetarium
4
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
The Adler Planetarium connects people to the universe and each other. Whether it is introducing a guest to the Ring Nebula, a neighborhood school to a community partner, a research team to an army of citizen scientists, or one staff member to another, the Adler’s focus on meaningful connections dates back nearly a century. Today, the museum hosts more than half a million visitors each year and reaches millions more through youth STEAM programs, neighborhood skywatching events, online citizen science, and other outreach projects. With the Adler’s support, people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities gain the confidence to explore their universe together and return to their communities ready to think critically and creatively about any challenge that comes their way.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Burnham Park
Best nearby
Restaurants
2,772 within 5 kms

Cafe Galileo's
22
8.4 m$ • Cafe • Vegetarian Friendly

Kim and Carlo's
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0.7 km$ • Quick Bites • American • Fast food

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0.3 km$ • Quick Bites • Mexican • Fast food

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83
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71
0.8 km$ • Bakeries • American • Cafe

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0.6 km$$ - $$$ • American • Fast food

The Field Bistro
67
0.8 km$$ - $$$ • American • Cafe • Vegetarian Friendly

Yolk - South Loop
1,686
1.4 km$$ - $$$ • American • Cafe • Vegetarian Friendly

Giordano's
462
1.4 km$$ - $$$ • Italian • American • Pizza

Eleven City Diner
1,450
1.6 km$$ - $$$ • American • Diner • Soups
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522 within 10 kms

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1
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Contribute
Popular mentions
4.0
2,139 reviews
Excellent
776
Very good
667
Average
482
Poor
160
Terrible
54
Jason P
Lansing, MI745 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
Gave this place 5 stars because of City Pass. This was one of our two additional choices on City Pass, so I didn’t have to pay $35/adult and $24/child admission to the museum and two shows. If I had to pay the actual admission, maybe I wouldn’t have rated it so high.
The museum has some hit and miss exhibits. Great artifacts from the Apollo 13 mission and an actual spaceship from one of the Gemini missions. The exhibit of the historic telescopes was also good and my kids enjoyed the kids play area.
Highlight was the planetarium shows. Kind of reminded me of watching an IMAX movie. The planet nine show was great and significantly more interesting than the average Imagine the Moon show. Have two kids under 10 and they both enjoyed the planetarium shows and were not bored..
Shouldn’t need more than 3-4 hours to see everything and planetarium shows are about thirty minutes each.
If going on a busy day, make sure to come here in the morning and get your planetarium show tickets early. The shows do sell out and the Planetarium closes at 4. You can go out of the museum and re enter.
The museum has some hit and miss exhibits. Great artifacts from the Apollo 13 mission and an actual spaceship from one of the Gemini missions. The exhibit of the historic telescopes was also good and my kids enjoyed the kids play area.
Highlight was the planetarium shows. Kind of reminded me of watching an IMAX movie. The planet nine show was great and significantly more interesting than the average Imagine the Moon show. Have two kids under 10 and they both enjoyed the planetarium shows and were not bored..
Shouldn’t need more than 3-4 hours to see everything and planetarium shows are about thirty minutes each.
If going on a busy day, make sure to come here in the morning and get your planetarium show tickets early. The shows do sell out and the Planetarium closes at 4. You can go out of the museum and re enter.
Written 2 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
avazacopoulos
Mexico City, Mexico102 contributions
Apr 2022 • Solo
If you have children and you want to occupy them for 2-3 hrs then go. Any other sane person stay away, although the museum is very well set up - It was booooring to death. Really limited is the exhibits, etc. Just go to the science museum - infinite better.
Written 9 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Mary Beth J
1 contribution
Apr 2021 • Friends
The Adler is one of my favorite places in the world! They make space science understandable without watering down content. Their special shows are astonishing, both beautiful and informative. Their knowledgeable staff is friendly and available, always excited to answer questions and share information.
In order to leave this review, a “date visited” is required. However, I have not been since the beginning of the pandemic. Thankfully they have had some virtual events that have been exciting.
I cannot wait to get back there on a regular faces again.
In order to leave this review, a “date visited” is required. However, I have not been since the beginning of the pandemic. Thankfully they have had some virtual events that have been exciting.
I cannot wait to get back there on a regular faces again.
Written 19 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ken D
Beavercreek, OH116 contributions
Jun 2019
Being retired military, entrance to the Planetarium was inexpensive as the museum entrance fee is waived for up to five guests for Active Military and Veteran’s. We only paid for the show we saw “Destination Solar System”. It was in the domed Grainger Theater and better suited for children. The close-up video of the planets Mars, Jupiter and Saturn were pretty neat though. We expected to visit all the planets during the show, but only did the middle four plus the asteroid belt. Doesn’t the Solar System contain eight or nine? Oh well…
The museum itself was very good. There were displays of old telescopes, a moon rock, a Gemini Capsule and a section on the moon landing. We were able to stand on the moon in front of the Lunar Lander and by the flag to get a picture. One of the favorite displays was a 360 degree wrap around the wall mural of the Milky Way Galaxy. Less than twenty-five percent is in the photo below. Now that is impressive as it is full of stars with some of the dots actually being other galaxies in the distance.
The grounds of the Adler Planetarium are set out into Lake Michigan. It is quite a remarkable view out onto the lake and more so back towards Chicago itself. We walked here via Lake Shore Trail. Take a stroll here before or after your visit.
The museum itself was very good. There were displays of old telescopes, a moon rock, a Gemini Capsule and a section on the moon landing. We were able to stand on the moon in front of the Lunar Lander and by the flag to get a picture. One of the favorite displays was a 360 degree wrap around the wall mural of the Milky Way Galaxy. Less than twenty-five percent is in the photo below. Now that is impressive as it is full of stars with some of the dots actually being other galaxies in the distance.
The grounds of the Adler Planetarium are set out into Lake Michigan. It is quite a remarkable view out onto the lake and more so back towards Chicago itself. We walked here via Lake Shore Trail. Take a stroll here before or after your visit.
Written 12 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Thank you for the review! We're so happy that you were able to take advantage of our military discount. Come back soon!
Written 19 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Camila
13 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
The planetarium is good, the shows that we saw are also good, it is informative and interactive, but I think it is not worth the money, it is too expensive for what it is. We wouldn’t go again as there are many other things to do in Chicago.
Written 11 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
We truly appreciate the feedback. We are always looking for ways to improve our visitor experience, so thank you for taking the time to give us your thoughts.
Written 20 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
joanna877
New Buffalo2 contributions
Mar 2020
We were hoping to go and see 4 shows so I bought an unlimited package for the whole family.
Starting at 12:15 pm show we thought that the show was not as interesting as we expected and my 7 and 8 year old were rather bored.
The 1:30pm show was a little better, guided more towards kids, but still too technical for them to understand. The visuals were much better so kids were interested.
The overall exibits were not as exciting and seemed to be in a bad shape, outdated or broken so we went through them rather fast so we left after 1:30 show ended, not waiting for 2:30 and 3:30 show.
We left rather disappointed with the experience.
Starting at 12:15 pm show we thought that the show was not as interesting as we expected and my 7 and 8 year old were rather bored.
The 1:30pm show was a little better, guided more towards kids, but still too technical for them to understand. The visuals were much better so kids were interested.
The overall exibits were not as exciting and seemed to be in a bad shape, outdated or broken so we went through them rather fast so we left after 1:30 show ended, not waiting for 2:30 and 3:30 show.
We left rather disappointed with the experience.
Written 9 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
So sorry to hear that you were disappointed with your experience at the Adler. We’re always looking for ways to improve our guest experience and welcome any feedback or more information about your visit via an email to communications@adlerplanetarium.org. Thanks for your time!
Written 20 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ayanna G
1 contribution
Mar 2020 • Family
I took my son for his birthday as he loves Space. He had an amazing time. The solar system exhibit was awesome and the sky show "Destination Solar System" made his day!
Written 9 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Thank you for the lovely review. We're so happy that you and your soon enjoyed Destination Solar System! Keep looking up :).
Written 9 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ian B
Sixpenny Handley, UK89 contributions
Feb 2020
Interesting museum with helpful staff. The shows are extra but essential for a good visit. I was expecting to find a dome with stars on it, but that is not what the have.
Written 1 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Thank you for the review! If you're looking to experience a dome show with stars, we highly recommend "Skywatch Live." This show is full of stars and reveals to the viewer what the Chicago night sky would look like without any light pollution. Thanks again for the review. Keep looking up!
Written 9 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Brad C
3 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
It’s been years since I’ve been so I took my children (Elementary and Middle School age) for their first ever encounter with a Planetarium. My oldest likes star gazing yet they were bored within a half hour. There were a couple of instructor led demonstrations, but most everything required reading. Younger kids will get bored quickly and the older ones will only find it interesting if they have a passion for space and stars.
We saw two presentations, Planet Nine which both kids thought was fascinating, myself included. We also saw Chicago Live and although informative, stated a little late and felt very rushed to get it done.
The full “everything included” pass is a rip-off. We bought the package that included the two shows and at the end still felt it was overpriced.
We were fortunate there weren’t many schools attending or tourists... so it wasn’t crowded and we got good seats for both shows.
What area that really left me pissed though..... we choose to see movies over the lunch period to avoid the lunch lines as the Cafe is “open” till 2:30. We got there right at 2 only to be told the Grill was closed and our only options were pre-made sandwiches and pre-made snacks. NO WHERE does it say the grill closed before the Cafe did but we were starving at that point and made due with ham and turkey.
For the money.... you’re better off at one of the other museums in the same area. Lot of money spent with very little wow factor.
We saw two presentations, Planet Nine which both kids thought was fascinating, myself included. We also saw Chicago Live and although informative, stated a little late and felt very rushed to get it done.
The full “everything included” pass is a rip-off. We bought the package that included the two shows and at the end still felt it was overpriced.
We were fortunate there weren’t many schools attending or tourists... so it wasn’t crowded and we got good seats for both shows.
What area that really left me pissed though..... we choose to see movies over the lunch period to avoid the lunch lines as the Cafe is “open” till 2:30. We got there right at 2 only to be told the Grill was closed and our only options were pre-made sandwiches and pre-made snacks. NO WHERE does it say the grill closed before the Cafe did but we were starving at that point and made due with ham and turkey.
For the money.... you’re better off at one of the other museums in the same area. Lot of money spent with very little wow factor.
Written 29 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
We’re sorry to hear you didn’t enjoy your visit with us as much as you expected. We appreciate guest feedback and suggestions on how we can improve our experience for guests of all ages. Please feel free to send us an email with more details (communications@adlerplanetarium.org). Thank you!
Written 20 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Lourdes A
1 contribution
Feb 2020 • Friends
I have not been to Adler Planetarium since I was in 8th grade, I am 61 now ! It was an incredible clear experience about space! All the exhibits are world class and the people who work at Adler were kind and well informed. A place to revisit soon!
Written 24 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Firstly, thank you for the lovely review. Secondly, welcome back to the Adler! We're so happy that you were able to revisit us and that you enjoyed your time! Keep looking up :).
Written 27 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Does the entry ticket allow exit and re-entry if I want to go out and come back later the same day?
ridge83elcamino
Lemont, IL93 contributions
I think they stamp your hand for reentry
Do they kick you out at closing?
vlowe1984
54 contributions
Yep just ushered us out of a side door !!
Ale61BuenosAires
Buenos Aires5,971 contributions
Hola, tengo una duda con respecto a los shows. Hay audífonos para escucharlos en diferentes idiomas o son solo en inglés? Tengo mucho interés en verlos pero necesito escucharlos en español. Gracias.
Mandy J
Batavia, IL169 contributions
Hola,
Debe ponerse en contacto con los servicios para los huespedes y tal vez puedan acomodarlo con los servicios de traduccion 312-922-7827
465benjaminp
34 contributions
Is there a place nearby to have a picnic lunch? Where is the best place to park? Thank you!
CJB4622
Atlanta, GA30 contributions
Yes, Northerly Island and Adler Planetrium
GiselaABM
Bogota, Colombia7 contributions
en un comentario reciente dicen que la Entrada al Adler Planetarium de Chicago es gratis, pero viendo su pagina web hay entradas de diferentes precios la mas barata es de 12 Us. será verdad que es gratuita?
Can you bring in your own food?
Catherine C
Chicago, IL69 contributions
Not a big cooler but they say bringing a “brown bag lunch” is permissible. It’s in the FAQ section on their website.
Eoin M
Ireland50 contributions
How long does it take to visit the planetarium? Would it take a half day or longer to see it properly? Hoping to visit in November but there is so much to see in Chicago! Any advice/tips are very welcome!
Kay R
38 contributions
Maybe if you read every single plaque, but no, this museum can definitely be seen in less than half a day. it is relatively small. We spent two hours, and that was enough. To be honest, of all the museums in Chicago, this is probably the weakest. Half a day would be too long. Next door is the Shedd Aquarium, much more entertaining, and I'm an astronomy buff. The Museum of Science and Industry has a pretty nice space area, but it's farther a way and requires a car. Great, great museum though but you could easily spend an entire day there and not see it all.
Other favorites:
If you're shopping on Michigan Ave, go to the top of Hancock Signature Room lounge (not the observation deck, have a drink and take in the view, the drinks are pricey, but no more than you'll pay to go to the observation deck and stay thirsty.)
If you like art, the Chicago Art Institute is one of the best in the world. (Great cafeteria in the basement, hit the side door if there's a line). Then walk the outdoor bridge over to the Cloudgate sculpture (or "the Bean") in Millennium Park. Not to be missed. Cindy's restaurant across the way is excellent, but reservations should be made well in advance if you can. Good bar, with fab views. Less pricey and more local fare would be Giordano's pizza near the Prudential building (you can see the building from the park) Get some Deep Dish Pizza. Everyone should have one at least once in their life.
If you want a true local experience, hit the Billy Goat Tavern under Michigan avenue near the river for a greasy burger, fries and a beer. It hasn't changed in at least 30 years, so it's also a time machine.
If you like healthier fare, just about anything can be found at Eataly, not for from Michigan Ave. Basically a big indoor collection of various food stands.
Head west on Grand and spend some time at Navy Pier, for our "total tourist" stop with small shops and novelty stores, and a Ferris Wheel (a Chicago creation).
If you're into Natural History, the Field Museum is great, but also somewhere you could spend a lot of time. If you're not a big reader, though, you can zip through.
If the weather is nice, take the architectural boat tour. Best way to see Chicago, but could be miserable in November. Or it could be glorious. The weather is unpredictable.
Go to Second City in Old Town for some of the best improv comedy in the world. (Get tickets online in advance, main stage if you can).
If you're super into views, go to the Sears (now Willis) Tower, but the Signature Room is just as good (without the info overload) and closer to the action.
There are some novelty tours popping up, (food, pastry, etc.) Check online. And if you're young and fun hit the bar at the Freehand Chicago, and check out their website. They have tours available open to all. If you're going to go to a lot of the museum/attractions consider an all access pass, details online.
These are the major stops, there are so many interesting neighborhoods and other places outside of downtown, but too many to mention here. Can you tell I love this town? I hope you have a great stay.
pallavinahata
Cumming, GA18 contributions
How to reserve shows online? I want to buy an all-access pass and lot of other reviewers mentioned to reserve the shows online before you go. I cannot find a place to do that. Do you need to that after the purchase?
Matthew C
Saint Louis, MO88 contributions
I don't remember being able to reserve shows online. You may not even need to. I just walked to the counter when I arrived, showed them my City Pass, and then they gave me a choice of shows and times I could go to. I reserved one at that point.
Frequently Asked Questions about Adler Planetarium
- Adler Planetarium is open:
- Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- We recommend booking Adler Planetarium tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 22 Adler Planetarium tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Adler Planetarium:
- Chicago CityPASS (From HK$894.90)
- Go City: Chicago Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 Attractions (From HK$484.74)
- Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (From HK$353.17)
- Go City: Chicago All-Inclusive Pass with 25+ Attractions (From HK$738.29)
- Chicago's Ultimate City Bike Tour (From HK$431.67)
- Hotels near Adler Planetarium:
- (1.53 km) Le Meridien Essex Chicago
- (2.81 km) LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
- (2.05 km) Hotel Blake, Ascend Hotel Collection
- (1.64 km) The Blackstone, Autograph Collection
- (2.62 km) Pendry Chicago
- Restaurants near Adler Planetarium:
- (0.01 km) Cafe Galileo's
- (0.26 km) Del Campo's Tacos on 12st beach
- (0.73 km) Kim and Carlo's
- (0.55 km) Soundings at Shedd Aquarium
- (1.44 km) Yolk - South Loop
- Attractions near Adler Planetarium:
- (0.07 km) Man Enters the Cosmos
- (0.29 km) Windy City Diving
- (0.59 km) Shedd Aquarium
- (0.82 km) Field Museum
- (2.00 km) The Art Institute of Chicago