Adler Planetarium

The Adler Planetarium, America's first planetarium, sits at the tip of the Museum Campus with immersive sky shows and space-exploration exhibits. Its lakefront lawn also delivers the single best postcard view of the Chicago skyline. Sky-show tickets cost extra on top of admission, so plan which dome shows you want.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is the Adler good for kids?

Yes, the interactive exhibits and dome shows engage kids well, though very young children may find some shows dark or long. It is smaller and more focused than the Field or MSI, making it a manageable two-to-three-hour visit for families.

How much is Adler Planetarium admission?

Basic museum entry starts in the high $20s for adults and gives you the building and exhibits. Access to the dome sky shows costs more via bundled passes. Chicago residents get about $5 off, and prices vary by date, so check the current tiers when booking.

How do you get to the Adler Planetarium?

Take the Red, Orange, or Green Line to Roosevelt, then the 130 (summer) or 146 bus to the Museum Campus. The Adler sits at the far end of the peninsula, a scenic walk from the Field Museum and Shedd. Biking the Lakefront Trail is a great option too.

What can you see at the Adler Planetarium?

Exhibits cover the history of astronomy, space exploration, telescopes, and a collection of historic instruments, plus rotating themed shows in the domes. The 'Adler at Night' program adds evening events. Outside, the peninsula offers one of the best skyline views in Chicago.

Are the sky shows worth it?

Yes, the dome theater shows are the highlight and the main reason to come; they are what separate the Adler from a standard museum. Bundle at least one sky show with your entry. The exhibits alone are decent but the immersive shows are the memorable part.

Can you combine the Adler with other museums?

Yes, it shares the Museum Campus with the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium, all walkable and bundled in CityPASS. Doing all three in a day is a lot; pairing the Adler with one other is more comfortable. Save the Adler for late day to catch the sunset view.

What are the Adler's hours?

The Adler is generally open 9am to 4pm daily, with last admission an hour before close. Every Wednesday it runs extended evening hours (roughly 4pm-10pm) as 'Adler at Night.' Confirm the day's schedule online, as hours shift seasonally.

Is the Adler free for Illinois residents?

The Adler offers free admission to Illinois residents (with proof) on select days throughout the year, and every Wednesday night is free for Illinois residents with ID. Sky shows may cost extra even on free days. Check the calendar for the current free dates.

Nearby in Ask Chicago

• Northerly IslandPark0.37 km · 5 min walk
• Shedd AquariumAttraction0.61 km · 8 min walk
• Field MuseumMuseum0.84 km · 10 min walk
• Field MuseumAttraction0.84 km · 11 min walk
• Grant ParkAttraction1.38 km · 17 min walk