The sky snows were the BOMB! Very similar to an imax experience. The building was under renovation while we were there, but the sky shows were well worth the time and money.
Saw a show at the planetarium. Very kid oriented. Talked about the stars and constellations. Was a cool experience but prob wouldn’t go back.
Great view of Chicago skyline on the north west side of the complex. It’s even more spectacular when the sun rises and reflects in the windows of the skyscrapers.
This was my first official aquarium that I saw when I was in Chicago and it definitely didn't disappoint with its amazing architecture and collection of hundreds of different aquatic species it was a once in a lifetime experience to see a dolphin show and white shark last but not the least a baby whale that I would never forget. I would highly recommend to anyone to visit it once whenever you're in Chicago.
Adler after dark was a very great experience. This place is a fun and thought provoking at the same time. I will definitely go again and again.
Needs an update badly. I don't think anything had changed here in close to 25 years. The way I remember it as a kid in grade school is exactly how it is now. Don't get me wrong it has potential but it needs to be revamped into into 2017. The grounds outside the Alder Planetarium are amazing photo taking opportunities but inside is lackluster and disappointing. I hope they update sometime in mylifetime.
Well organized exhibits with clear theme and related topics. Comfortable and safe for children with ample amenities even for a big crowd. Updated info regarding their selected topics. Very good souvenir shop which has practically everything an astro-buff needs. Highly recommended not only for locals but for tourists as well.
I visited here last spring and have visited here in the past. What an amazing experience! Everything was enjoyable and a cut above the rest. I found the presentation educational and relaxing. Overall quiet and subdued atmosphere. Definitely will be visiting again.
I love museums and I love planetariums but this one needs better signage. I was given a paper when I walked in and asked to analyze the museum, describe how I got from one place to another and why. The signs there are not good, the attractions don't always have an attendant and they have no signs saying where and if there is a line. I loved the attractions, I thought it was great they had one showing how Chicago's sky looked in 1913, but navigating there was not easy. We were supposed to turn in our reviews at the end of the trip but we were promptly escorted outside right after the Planetarium show because it was closing time. I hope they see this since they didn't see that and make navigation there better!
The Adler Planetarium is a public museum dedicated to the study of astronomy and astrophysics. It was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler. It is located on the northeast tip of Northerly Island at the shore of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois. The Adler is America's first planetarium and part of Chicago's Museum Campus, which includes the John G. Shedd Aquarium and The Field Museum.
My sister and I had a great time exploring and learning about planetariums. And they have interactive stations. If you have the city pass, then you can come here as well.
The have beautiful beach outside to walk around and gift shop.
A great educational place to bring kids.
I will admit, I’m a nerd for physics, science, and astronomy but proud of it. Here they have a fantastic collection of exhibits and telescopes. I probably spent over an hour looking at all of their historic telescopes. You can touch meteorites, view the sun, and so much more. The “Planet 9” show was also fantastic, and look, you really can’t beat the view of the city from this location. I took some great selfies!
I’d highly recommend this place if you claim to enjoy science!! 😊
I was extremely excited to check this place out, especially after an amazing experience at Griffith Observatory in LA.
Let me start with the positives
Pros:
- Beautiful view of the Chicago skyline (outside the planetarium)
- Decent/fun place for kids
Cons:
- The show, "Destination Solar System" sells itself as an experience in 2096. What is the show really about? Showcasing a few of the major planets and grade 8 information about each. No point in time does it give us a futuristic feel except the host telling us to use our imagination.
- The actual museum /displays were subpar. Much better showcases in Washington DC and LA.
- $25 per head. Complete rip off.
One of the better planetariums I've been to. The staff were incredibly friendly. As a solo traveler I enjoyed their conversation, interaction and fun questions. I enjoyed the Cosmos show, especially that they had a real person narrating for us, rather than all automated voice. Overall, this was a great place to explore with lots of fun and interactive exhibits. The price was a good deal for everything included.
I found this place to be very lackluster. I admit that I may be biased, as a St. Louis resident, because we have such a great science center and planetarium but I tried to be objective. I just could not connect with anything at this place. Nothing was particularly informative, fun, or interesting. "Space" and the universe itself both lend such endless opportunity for exploration and Adler barely took any liberty in doing so.
We really enjoyed this place. A lot of informative exhibits and interactive experiences. Kids will really enjoy it and have a great time while learning something too. Also a cute area for toddlers and smaller kids. I would definitely say split your day between here and Shedd if you can. You'll enjoy both.
I absolutely love this place. We got an annual membership but unfortunately only took advantage of it a few times. My boys loved the kids space interactive playground. Pricing is incredibly reasonable.
Not exactly the most exciting place, but it's a really great visit to enjoy some time out with the family, or to go on a date if you're into space. Relatively inexpensive, and the staff is very warm and welcoming as well. Definitely a must visit if you're here in Chicago (Along with all the other museums and big attractions!)
Overall a really enjoyable place. You can also get stars named after people (an excellent birthday gift or a good gift to a someone with a really unique name)