23 Planetariums in CALIFORNIA (Scientific & Historic)
California is known for many interesting things like historical events, cultural offerings, sports events, historical monuments, and beautiful landscape views.
Planetariums are celestial sanctuaries that give you a glimpse of the fact that there is a whole different world outside Earth and get educated about the mysteries of the Universe.
The Planetarium is the best place to enjoy a rainy day or cold while viewing the wonders of space and the historical evidence of space.
Reading this article will give you a tour of some of the planetariums you can visit in California, each with unique excitement and educational experience.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Aquariums in California.
Planetariums in San Francisco, California
1. Charles F. Hagar Planetarium (Memorable Experiences For Students)
The Planetarium was established in 1973 and has been among San Francisco, California’s most interesting places to visit.
They have hosted many visitors, both the students and community groups, by giving them a memorable experience.
The Planetarium trains undergraduates and graduates interested in exploring the unique knowledge of space and for research purposes.
Many of the students have created a career from the knowledge gotten from the Planetarium, as it sparks an interest to want to know more.
The Planetarium is accessible to all visitors, and it has so many interesting things, like the Spitz projector, which is at the center of the room and projects 1300 stars, the sun, the moon, and other planets for visitors to see.
Visitors can enjoy live shows of how beautiful the sky is from anywhere on Earth in the Planetarium.
Address: 1600 Holloway Ave., San Francisco, California 94132, United States
2. Morrison Planetarium (Innovative Scientific Displays)
Morrison Planetarium is an advanced planetarium motivated by innovative scientific data, discoveries, and theories about space and the Universe.
Everything visitors see in the Planetarium shows all the beauty the Universe beholds from the planets, spacecraft, and the galaxy.
This world-class offers visitors an immersive and educational experience in astronomy.
Many advanced technologies in the Planetarium make the viewing experience amusing for the visitors.
The impressive dome, which measures 75 diameters, provides a seamless night sky view, giving an incredibly realistic astronomical experience.
Visitors can enjoy the view in the comfortable seats available in the Planetarium while gazing upward as the dome becomes a canvas for breathtaking displays.
There are many amusing and interesting things in the Planetarium you must visit to experience the marvels Morrison Planetarium offers.
Address: 55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco, California 94118, United States
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Planetariums in San Diego and San Marcos, California
1. Fleet Science Center (Fosters Science Community)
The Fleet science center is a place that fosters a connected community where the transformative power of science paves the way for a brighter future.
This Planetarium is where you will see all the wonders of the Universe that leave you in awe of the world you live in.
They engage with educators, scientific institutions, and those who embrace the beautiful aspect of the Universe.
This Planetarium is the perfect place to visit to experience a journey of exploration and endless possibilities.
Spark your curiosity about the Universe and experience new horizons in the Fleet Science Center.
Fleet Science Center provides diverse exhibits designed to captivate and educate visitors of all ages, thereby enlightening them about the Universe.
Many advanced technologies at the planetariums give you an experience that changes your perspective of life.
Enjoy an enlightening time with your friends by visiting the Fleet Science Center.
Address: San Diego, 1875 El Prado, CA 92101, United States
2. Palomar College Planetarium (Innovative Technologies)
This Planetarium boasts innovative technologies that give visitors a captivating experience through the cosmos.
Palomar College Planetarium is a fascinating astronomical facility that offers immersive experiences and educational programs about the Universe.
A dome theater in the Planetarium creates a breathtaking and very realistic environment that takes visitors through the galaxies, stars, and the milky way.
The Planetarium has many amusing things, but the highlight is the series of public shows and presentations it hosts.
These shows are designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages, providing an opportunity to learn and explore the different aspects of astronomy.
The skilled astronomers at the Planetarium guide the visitors through the wonders of the Universe by revealing the mysteries of celestial bodies, galaxies, and the structure of the cosmos.
Address: 1140 W Mission Road, San Marcos, California 92069, United States
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Planetarium in Santa Monica and Glendale, California
1. Santa Monica College Planetarium (Advanced Technology For Galaxy Exploration)
This Planetarium existed because of the vision of the generous man Late John Drescher.
The advanced planetarium theater is a highlight of Santa Monica College.
With advanced technology at the Planetarium, visitors can go an amusing experience through the galaxy and see the stars and the solar system.
This Planetarium is the perfect place for people looking to build an interest in astronomy and advance their knowledge about astronomy.
There are special scientific events hosted in the Planetarium that gives the visitor a first-hand experience of the marvels of the Universe.
Some events include a weekly night sky show that lasts thirty minutes and shows visitors a breathtaking view, a life of stars, a look at the dark Universe, shedding light on a nebulous cosmos, and many more events.
You can visit the planetariums’s web page to know more about their upcoming events and have an amazing experience at the Planetarium.
Address: 1900 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, California 90405, United States
2. Glendale Community College Planetarium (Renowned Destination in Glendale)
The Planetarium is located in Glendale Community College, a renowned destination in Glendale.
They host several shows every year where the team of astronomers in the Planetarium welcomes students from different colleges to enjoy an educative opportunity about astronomy.
Some of their events entertain the people in the area and allow them to have a delightful fun time.
Glendale Planetarium also allows field trips for individuals interested in sparking an interest in astronomy or just wanting to observe the stunning view at the Planetarium.
This Planetarium is a destination you should visit if you are an astronomy enthusiast, as they have several shows that allow you to view the wonders of the Universe.
Their shows are scheduled, so you have to book for the events ahead of time, and the tickets to the Planetarium are affordable.
Address: 1500 North Verdugo Rd., Glendale, CA 91208, United States
Also see our article on Water Parks in California.
Planetariums in Los Angeles and Bakersfield, California
1. UCLA Division of Astronomy and Astrophysics (Academic & Research Institution)
The UCLA Division of Astronomy and Astrophysics is a renowned academic and research institution dedicated to studying the Universe and its celestial body.
It is a part of the Physics and Astronomy Department at the University of California.
This division provides a stimulating environment for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in advanced research and education in astronomy and astrophysics.
The Planetarium has a range of research areas, including cosmology, stellar evolution, galaxy formation, high-energy astrophysics, planetary science, and observational astronomy.
At UCLA, they have the coolest technologies for cosmic explorations and access to mind-blowing observatories and telescopes on the ground and floating in space, giving you a peek at the Universe.
You will enjoy the beautiful breathtaking views of the Universe at this Planetarium.
Address: 475 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
2. Samuel Oschin Planetarium (Advanced Technology Showcase)
This Planetarium is one of the prominent planetariums in California; it is known for the advanced technology it has to observe space and time.
Some of its technology includes the Zeiss star projector, used to protect the beauty of the Universe and the stars, the digital projection system, an advanced aluminum dome, comfortable seats for visitors, theatrical lighting, and many more.
The environment of the Planetarium is welcoming and filled with friendly staff who aim to give the visitors a delightful and memorable time.
There are several shows the planetarium hosts that give the visitors an insight into how gorgeous the Universe is and allows them to travel through the solar system to observe the mysteries of the Universe.
The Planetarium is accessible every day of the week, but the time is according to the show that will be showing.
Have the best time with your fellow astronomy lover by visiting this Planetarium.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Road, Los Angeles, California 90027, United States
3. Bakersfield College Planetarium- William M Thomas Planetarium (Public Shows on Celestial Bodies)
The William M. Thomas Planetarium is located at Bakersfield College and is dedicated to providing educational and entertaining experiences to the public and students.
It was named after a former faculty member who was a prominent astronomer figure, William M. Thomas.
The Planetarium has become a valuable resource for people in the community and the students.
Many advanced facilities in the Planetarium give the visitors and once in a lifetime experience.
The Planetarium has a dome and a Digi Star 6 projection system, which accurately displays a realistic representation of the night sky.
They host public shows, and different shows are offered to the audience, like the eclipse show, observing planets, watching the night sky, and many more.
This Planetarium should be on your must-visit list for planetariums.
Address: 1801 Panorama Drive, Bakersfield, California 93305, United States
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Planetariums in North Ridge and Fresno, California
1. CSUN Bianchi Planetarium (Unique Opportunity For Exploration)
This Planetarium is a popular captivating destination for astronomy lovers and space lovers, it is on the campus of California State University, and the Planetarium is named after Dr. Charles H. Bianchi.
Bianchi Planetarium was founded in the year 1964 and has since become a cherished institution for visitors of all ages.
The Planetarium offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the Universe through immersive shows and educational programs.
A 360-degree projection system and other advanced technologies transport visitors to distant galaxies and show the beauty of the cosmos.
This amusing experience allows visitors to feel like they are floating through space, surrounded by stars, planets, and the cosmos.
Enjoy the gorgeous view of the Universe in a comfortable setting in this Planetarium.
Address: 18111 Nordhoff Str., Northridge, California 91330, United States
2. The Downing Planetarium (High-Resolution Projections)
This Planetarium is a remarkable scientific and educational facility dedicated to exploring the wonders of the Universe and giving its visitors a breathtaking view.
It is a place of delight for astronomy enthusiasts, students, and community members.
There is a unique experience that every visitor gets in this Planetarium.
The Planetarium has state-of-the-art facilities to create an innovative and visually stunning show.
It features a domed ceiling from which high-resolution images and videos are projected, giving visitors a captivating view of the cosmos.
The Planetarium uses advanced digital projection systems, surround sound, and unique software to accurately recreate the night sky.
One of the main aims of the Planetarium is to enlighten people who are interested in space science and astronomy.
The planetarium hosts show covering topics like the solar system, the milky way galaxy, the latest discoveries in astronomy, and many more.
Address: 5320 N Maple Avenue, Fresno, California 93710, United States
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Planetarium in Sacramento and Curpentino, California
1. May at the Sac State Planetarium-Sacramento Planetarium (Advanced Dome Theater)
Are you interested in amusing shows about the stars?
May at the Sac Planetarium offers breathtaking shows, interactive exhibits, and engaging presentations to educate astronomy enthusiasts.
The Planetarium has an advanced dome theater that provides a realistic environment for exploring the mysteries of the Universe.
Every month the Planetarium hosts different shows and events for visitors to enjoy various astronomical topics about the planets, stars, galaxies, and the cosmos.
There is an expert astronomer at the Planetarium who enjoys giving the visitors and students an educative experience by guiding them through interesting facts about space and the Universe.
The tickets for viewing the shows at the Planetarium are cheap because they aim to give students and the general public an interesting and memorable experience at no cost.
You can explore your knowledge of astronomy by visiting this Planetarium.
Address: 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819, United States
2. De Anza College Planetarium (Fully Educative Experience)
The De Anza College Planetarium is a popular destination in Curpentino for astronomy lovers and the general public.
It is one of the most enlightening places to visit if you want a fully educative experience about the Universe.
The Planetarium has a 50-foot projection surface, showing enlightening and captivating shows about the Universe.
There are shows for people that want to have a field trip to the Planetarium; the Planetarium has selective days. They show a large audience an amusing display of the cosmos and the Universe.
These shows are presented by knowledgeable astronomers who provide fascinating insights into the mysteries of the cosmos.
Some of the shows the planetarium hosts include stargazing nights and laser music shows where visitors can enjoy a dazzling view of the stars while enjoying their favorite music.
If you want to see the beautiful wonders of the Universe and expand your imagination, this is the best place.
Address: 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, California 95014, United States
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Planetariums in Oakland and Costa Mesa, California
1. CHABOT Space and Science Center (Iconic Observatory Telescopes)
This Planetarium is a non-profit science center that serves the areas of Oakland.
The mission of this establishment is to inspire and give individuals an educational experience about the Earth and the Universe.
It aims to provide access to space science to people who are interested in brightening their knowledge about astronomy.
The Planetarium is also dedicated to promoting the appreciation of space exploration and astronomy.
Chabot Space and Science Center offer various facilities to engage and educate visitors.
One of the center’s most iconic facilities is the observatory dome’s powerful telescopes, which allow visitors to observe planets, galaxies, and other amusing astronomy.
With the captivating facilities and educational programs the Planetarium offers, the Planetarium develops above science in visitors and inspires them to engage in the exploration of space and Earth.
Address: 10000 Skyline Boulevard, Oakland, California 94619, United States
2. Orange Coast College Planetarium (Educational & Entertainment Center)
This Planetarium is a delightful destination for astronomy enthusiasts and people in the community of all ages.
The Planetarium serves as an educational and entertainment center, providing its visitors with a unique and mesmerizing experience of exploring the wonders of the Universe.
It offers educational programs and shows throughout the year for visitors to come anytime and enjoy.
Visitors attend the captivating astronomy presentations, the star shows, and presentations that educate on various topics in space science.
The Planetarium has actively contributed to astronomical science education in the community by hosting field trips for students in kindergarten to high school students, and hosting shows that educate the public.
It is open on specific days of the week, according to the shows that will be available to visitors.
This Planetarium gives visitors an adventurous experience by showing them all the amusing things about the Universe.
Address: 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, California 92626, United States
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Planetariums in Salinas and Indio, California
1. Hartnell College Planetarium (Advanced Technology Platform)
The Hartnell College Planetarium is located in Salinas, California.
It is a fascinating destination that offers visitors an educational and amusing experience.
The Planetarium’s advanced technology provides an incredible platform for stargazers to explore and understand the wonders of the Universe.
If you are a curious astronomer, this Planetarium is the perfect place to expand your imagination and educate yourself.
There is a large hemispherical screen in the dome theater of the Planetarium that gives the audience a realistic and awe-inspiring experience of being immersed in space.
The high-resolution projection system brings celestial objects and astronomical phenomena to life, allowing visitors to have a breathtaking of the galaxies, stars, and planets.
Public programs and shows are hosted for the general public to enjoy when visiting the Planetarium.
Address: 411 Central Ave., Salinas, California 93901, United States
2. Coachella Valley History Museum (Cultural Institution Preserving History)
Although this museum is not a planetarium, it is one of the most amusing destinations to visit in California.
The museum is a cultural institution that preserves the rich history of Earth and the Coachella Valley region.
It provides the visitors with a fascinating view into the past, offering a comprehensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs that shows the diverse history.
One of the exciting attractions is the Smiley-Tyler House, which offers an opportunity to regress in time and see how the world was during the early days of settlement.
The museum hosts various events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and special exhibitions; these programs are designed to engage the local community and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s history and culture.
Address: 82616 Miles Avenue, Indio, California 92201, United States
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Planetariums in San Bernadino, California
1. San Bernardino Valley College Planetarium (Wonders of the Universe Showcase)
The Planetarium is an interesting destination that shows you the wonders of the Universe.
This Planetarium is always available to individuals who enjoy viewing and studying the stars.
The latest technology in the Planetarium transports visitors to distant galaxies and planets, allowing them to experience breathtaking celestial events, the milky way, and the tapestry of billions of stars.
This destination has everything you can imagine about astronomy.
The magic of the Planetarium goes beyond giving you a breathtaking view; it is also a place of discovery and learning for students in college, where they will see and study the mysteries of the Universe.
They also offer shows and special events to people in the community, giving them an amusing experience.
Enjoy a mind-blowing journey through the galaxy and have a memorable experience in this Planetarium.
Address: 701 South Mount Vernon Ave., San Bernardino, California 92410, United States
2. Modesto Junior College Planetarium (Spectacular Dome & Visuals)
Step inside this Planetarium to have your mind blown by the advanced technology that can take you to far places in the Universe.
The Planetarium has a spectacular dome, mind-bending visuals, and sounds that wrap around you, giving you a relaxing and dreamy feeling.
It is more than just a space theater; it is also an educational platform for astronomy lovers of all ages.
This place takes you on a fascinating journey through the solar system by exploring the galaxies, the black holes, and the stars.
The Planetarium also hosts shows for the community to gather and witness events like the starry night sky and appreciate the charming beauty of the cosmos.
This Planetarium is the best place to enjoy an adventurous journey through the Universe.
So get your tickets and give your imagination satisfying discoveries.
Address: 435 College Avenue, Modesto, California 95350, United States
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Planetariums in Torrance and Santa Rosa, California
1. El Camino College Planetarium (Welcoming Environment For Discoveries)
You should visit a place that gives you a welcoming environment and offers many discoveries about the Universe.
El Camino College Planetarium is a science discovery in Torrance, California.
It features amusing exhibits, mind-blowing, informative visuals, and engaging astronomers who enjoy giving visitors an amazing experience.
The Planetarium has a projector that projects about 8500 stars and the milky way.
This Planetarium is a gateway to exploration of the solar system and enlightenment.
Visitors enjoy the engaging and informative program the Planetarium offers.
The knowledgeable astronomers in the Planetarium guide the visitors through the celestial mystery.
Beyond its educative part, this Planetarium is the perfect place that provides an entertaining environment for its visitors.
Visit this Planetarium to get whisked away on an extraordinary adventure through the stars.
Address: 16007 Crenshaw Boulevard, Torrance, California 90506, United States
2. Santa Rosa Junior College Planetarium (Supports Academic Programs)
If you are a space lover, this Planetarium is designed for you!
This Planetarium is a celestial sanctuary designed to educate and inspire visitors of all ages.
It is equipped with cutting-edge technology that brings the mysteries of the cosmos to life.
This destination is well-known in Santa Rosa and worth the hype!
The Planetarium is a major contributor to science academic programs and research; it offers an opportunity for students in astronomy to attend lectures and presentations that complement their course of study.
Despite the academic contributions, the Planetarium serves the community by giving residents and visitors from all other areas an opportunity to explore the mysteries of the Universe.
This Planetarium offers various captivating experiences to its visitors; you are guaranteed to have the best time.
Address: 1501 Mendocino Avenue, Santa Rosa, California 95401, United States
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Planetariums in Redding and Walnut, California
1. Scredder Planetarium (Introduction to Astronomical Phenomena)
Schreder Planetarium captures the hearts of astronomy lovers of all ages.
It is a beautiful and amusing domed theater that focuses on space science research and education for the community.
The Planetarium was established in 1979 and has been an amusing destination in the community since then.
It offers hands-on exhibits and many comfortable seats for visitors to have a delightful time.
The Planetarium offers introductions that spark the visitors’ interest in astronomical phenomena.
Friendly staff and educated astronomers enjoy presenting the astronomical exhibits to visitors.
Schreder Planetarium organizes programs that offer an educative and memorable experience to visitors allowing them to expand their imagination about the Universe.
This Planetarium is a fantastic place for astronomy lovers of all ages to visit and enjoy an amusing experience.
Address: 1644 Magnolia Avenue, Redding, CA 96001, United States
2. The Mt. SAC Randall Planetarium (Journey Through Galaxies & Stars)
This Planetarium was established in 1968 and has captured the hearts of people who love astronomy discoveries.
They offer field trips for scout groups and schools, and the package they offer includes a rocket-building show and a planetarium show.
It is a perfect place for space science lovers.
The visitors are always in a bright and excited mood when they visit the Planetarium as they enjoy the value of their money with the experience the Planetarium offers.
Astronomers in the Planetarium find it delightful to educate visitors of all ages about the mysteries of the Universe and show them all the interesting discoveries about the Universe.
Visitors can enjoy the shows the Planetarium organizes to show all the beauty of the Universe, including the stars, cosmos, and galaxies.
This Planetarium is one of Walnut, California’s coolest places to visit.
Address: 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut, California 91789, United States
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