Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum Tours

Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum showing modern architecture
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum featuring interior views as well as a small group of people
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum featuring signage
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum showing modern architecture
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum showing a skyscraper, mist or fog and a garden


Opportunities for fun, learning and wonder abound at this historic and state-of-the-art museum on the pretty shore of Lake Michigan.

One of the oldest of its kind in the United States, the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum has been delighting children and adults in the Chicago area since 1930. Located on Northerly Island in its nationally landmarked domed building, it is a necessary stop for anyone who loves to look at the sky. Learn about space and astronomy from its three planetarium theaters, fascinating exhibits and extensive collection of artifacts of space exploration.

Watch one of the museum’s fascinating star shows and explore the rest of the museum. Do experiments or build machines out of duct tape, marshmallows or bubble wrap at the Community Design Lab, where children and adults are encouraged to put scientific principles into practice. Join Mission Moon as you learn what it’s like to be an astronaut and how the United States got to outer space. Feel real meteors and bits of outer space or look at the elaborate instruments people used for understanding space before the invention of computers.

Get an unparalleled but safe view of the sun in the Doane Observatory, with the area’s only publicly accessible aperture telescope. Poke your head inside the metal dome of the Atwood Sphere to see how the night sky looked over Chicago in 1913. Tour guides will teach you how to identify stars and constellations. Wake up early on Saturdays to do yoga under the stars of the Grainger Sky Theater or stay up late once a month with Adler After Dark, an evening of astronomy and fun silhouetted against the Chicago skyline.

Drive to the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum in 10 minutes from downtown Chicago or half an hour from O’Hare International Airport. Public transportation hubs are located on Museum Campus. Metered parking is available nearby both on the street and in lots. Northerly Island is also often in use for events, so parking can occasionally be difficult to find.

The museum is open daily during business hours. There are a variety of ticketing options available for visitors to the museum that offer access to planetarium shows, tours and more.

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Best Lodging Options Near Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

Congress Plaza Hotel

Congress Plaza Hotel

3.5 out of 5
520 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL
Congress Plaza Hotel
Palmer House a Hilton Hotel

Palmer House a Hilton Hotel

4 out of 5
17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL
Palmer House a Hilton Hotel
Hilton Chicago

Hilton Chicago

4 out of 5
720 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
Hilton Chicago
Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago

Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago

2 out of 5
65 E Harrison St, Chicago, IL
Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago
Best Western Grant Park Hotel

Best Western Grant Park Hotel

2.5 out of 5
1100 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
Best Western Grant Park Hotel
citizenM Chicago Downtown

citizenM Chicago Downtown

4 out of 5
80 East Wacker Place, Chicago, IL
citizenM Chicago Downtown
Hyatt Regency Chicago

Hyatt Regency Chicago

4 out of 5
151 East Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL
Hyatt Regency Chicago
Fairmont Chicago at Millennium Park

Fairmont Chicago at Millennium Park

4.5 out of 5
200 North Columbus Drive, Chicago, IL
Fairmont Chicago at Millennium Park
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

3 out of 5
10 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

At the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum in Chicago, visitors can explore engaging exhibits that highlight the wonders of the universe. Families can enjoy interactive activities designed for kids, making it an educational experience for all ages. Don't miss the planetarium shows and special events that provide entertainment and deepen your understanding of astronomy. Whether you're a novice stargazer or a seasoned enthusiast, Adler offers a captivating journey through space.

Food and drinks

For a delicious meal near Adler Planetarium, visit the Historic Michael Jordan Restaurant, known for its vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, the Grand Terrace Ballroom offers a lovely dining experience. Don't miss Café Galileo's for coffee and pastries, or Pizzeria Portofino for a taste of authentic Chicago-style pizza.

Shopping

At Adler Planetarium, enjoy nearby shopping at 900 North Michigan Shops and Chicago Place Mall, both 2 miles away, offering family-friendly vibes. For a unique experience, check out Maxwell Street Market, also 2 miles away, featuring a vibrant atmosphere perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Soldier Field, a historic sports stadium 0.6 miles away, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for active enthusiasts. Northerly Island Natural Area, located 0.8 miles from the planetarium, provides a peaceful retreat for relaxation amidst nature. For family fun, enjoy a comedy show at Second City, just 3 miles away.

Adventure

Explore the Salt Creek Trail, located 12 miles from Adler Planetarium, for a refreshing hiking experience surrounded by beautiful scenery. Enjoy the adventure vibes as you trek through nature, taking in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Adler Planetarium with a visit to the Chicago Theatre for a captivating performance. Try your luck at Bally's Casino Chicago for a thrilling evening, or catch a movie at Film Row Cinema for a cozy family night out. Each venue offers unique entertainment vibes.

Find the best attractions near Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

If you're visiting the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum in Chicago, you'll find a variety of attractions nearby. Enjoy the stunning views and outdoor activities at Millennium Park, relax at the beach, or explore the rich exhibits at the Field Museum. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, or a serene urban park, this area has something for everyone to enjoy.

  • McCormick Place: As a premier event venue, McCormick Place is a bustling hub for conventions and conferences. With its modern architecture and spacious layout, it creates a professional atmosphere perfect for networking and exhibitions, making it a must-visit for business travelers.
  • Michigan Avenue: Known as the Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue is a vibrant street lined with luxury shops, restaurants, and stunning architecture. Its lively city vibe attracts both locals and tourists, offering a perfect blend of shopping and sightseeing.
  • Navy Pier: Navy Pier is a beautiful urban destination featuring scenic views of Lake Michigan, art installations, and family-friendly attractions. Its friendly atmosphere and variety of entertainment options, including rides and dining, make it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

Best time to go to Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

Visitor numbers around Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January25.7°F (-3.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February27.0°F (-2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March37.0°F (2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

To save money on your visit to the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. Plan your trip between December and February for lower hotel prices, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Check Expedia for last-minute offers and use their price filter to find budget-friendly accommodations. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and future cash rewards.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.