How to Visit the Adler Planetarium

While most of us never get the chance to touch the sky, there are those who find a way to hold the stars. A trip to the Adler Planetarium in Chicago is not only a great way to spend a day, but a chance to walk between the planets themselves and feel magic.

Things You'll Need

• Adler Planetarium map
• Time
• Energy
• Money

Instructions

1. Review www.adlerplanetarium.org. The website offers information on every aspect of the planetarium, from its hours and layout to exhibits and parking. Visiting the site affords a wealth of information that can make your visit seamless and painless. You can even purchase your tickets ahead of time via the website.

2. Pick the experience you want. There are numerous exhibits available at any given time. Looking over the programs that are currently running will help you decide what you want to see. This will save you much time.

3. Map your day. Run through the day, from traveling to the museum to parking to lunch to dinner to finally going home. Simulating your trip will eliminate as many problems as possible.

4. Park at Museum Campus. The planetarium offers parking at the Museum Campus (a location that handles parking for the Shedd Aquarium as well). There may be some street parking nearer to the planetarium, but Museum Campus is a giant lot with numerous spaces and decent fees.

5. Bring comfortable shoes, wear appropriate clothing and bring as little to carry as possible. Because the planetarium is a big place with much to see, make sure you wear clothing and shoes that will allow you to stay as long as you want to while remaining in comfort. Hard shoes and high heels will cut your visit short if they start to hurt your feet.. Also, while you may want to have a camera to take pictures with, limit how much you have to lug around. Bring a bag if it is allowed.

6. Bring your own food, if possible. The food at the planetarium cafe can be pricey. Packing your own food can cut your costs and also afford a nice picnic on the planetarium lawn, with a nice view of the Chicago skyline.

7. Watch your group. Given the size of the planetarium, it is very easy to lose people -- especially if you have children or disabled and/or elderly members who need extra care. Devise checkpoints in case someone gets lost, and acquaint yourself with the numerous staff members who can be called upon if someone gets lost.