Stellar Planetariums & Observatories for Chicago Kids

Lisa R:  Walk under the stars and enjoy a variety of family-friendly stargazing events at various Chicagoland nature centers throughout the year.

During the academic year, University of Chicago's Ryerson Astronomical Society offers the unique opportunity to stargaze inside their large observation dome on the roof of Ryerson Hall. All ages are welcome, and there's no need for prior stargazing experience in order to attend a stargazing night viewing. Check their calendar to confirm before heading out!

Chicago's most popular stargazing spot offers education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Explore a variety of out-of-this-world exhibits and breathtaking shows, and check out the Planet Explorers area, where kids can climb, crawl, play, and join the crew on a mission to space!

Gina I.:  Where can you see the stars and learn from Northwestern University Physics & Astronomy students? The Dearborn Observatory! The observatory makes its 18.5 foot refracting telescope available to the public every Friday night. You can make reservations in advance, or show up for the walk-in tours and hope it's not too crowded.

Note that the dome is not climate controlled, and that several staircases must be climbed in order to reach the telescope.

Gina I.:  Located on the campus of Triton College, the Cernan Earth & Space Center offers the perfect setting to explore the wonders of the universe and the latest discoveries in astronomy, space exploration, and geoscience. Visitors enjoy the dome theater, regular public programming, exhibit hall featuring space artifacts from the Apollo missions, and the Star Store gift shop. The Cernan Earth & Space Center is open to all ages, year-round.

Gina I.:  If you're looking for a no frills stargazing experience, the Karl G. Henize Observatory at Harper College is the place to go! With free community viewing sessions, you can take the kids to look through a high-powered, Meade 14" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and experience the awe and wonder of the universe. Observatory events are free and open to the public, and volunteers are on hand to answer questions and point out the best celestial sights.

Designed and built in 1895, the Yerkes Observatory is located on 77-acres beside Geneva Lake. The observatory features a museum highlighting famous Yerkes astronomers, as well as a unique gift shop. Various ticketed tours are offered throughout the year.

Sarah D.:  Let your child experience the night sky!!! Discovery Center Planetarium offers two developmentally appropriate educational presentations: "One World, One Sky" a Big Bird and Elmo adventure for children ages 4-7 and "Discover the Stars" a night-sky adventure designed for school-aged children ages 7 and up. Both programs run approximately 30 minutes. With over 300 other interactive exhibits, Discovery Center Museum is a great place to observe the stars and learn about science.