The Adler Planetarium was founded in 1930 and stands on Chicago’s Museum Campus; the building, by architect Ernest Grunsfeld Jr., is listed as a National Historic Landmark. For families with small children the anchor is Planet Explorers, an area set aside for the youngest visitors, and if the sky is clear, Adler telescope volunteers often lead free public viewings in the park around the museum.
A ticket gives one entry, so it pays to plan the visit as a single block rather than stepping out and back in. Lunch is at the Cosmic Cafe, which serves soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts and has vegetarian and gluten-free options. There is a private nursing room on the upper level, and mothers are welcome to nurse wherever they are comfortable in the building. Basic first-aid supplies are kept at both box offices.
The museum strongly encourages public transport: take the CTA to Roosevelt or the Metra to Museum Campus. Arriving by car or taxi, the passenger drop-off is in the U-shaped turnaround at the front. Mobility devices are permitted in all public areas, elevators reach every floor, and the Accessible Entrance is next to the Telescope Terrace, to the right of the main entrance as you face the museum.
Family FAQ
How much does Adler Planetarium cost?
Adults from $25.00; children from $13.00 (the child age range is not given on the tickets page).
Where are the toilets at Adler Planetarium?
A single-occupancy restroom is on the mid-level near the Accessible Entrance, with more restrooms on the lower level.
