If your family is excited about NASA’s upcoming Artemis missions, there’s no better place to celebrate future Moon explorers than Chicago’s Adler Planetarium. Beyond its iconic dome shows, the museum is packed with hands-on activities and special exhibits that make it a spring break trip that’s …. out-of-this-world. Keep scrolling to see the exhibitions you just can’t miss and get ready to be transported through space and time.
See Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon
Chicago’s Adler Planetarium is once again presenting Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon as a visual and musical experience under its iconic dome. Reopening this past January after celebrating the album’s iconic 50 year anniversary three years ago, the show brings the legendary rock ‘n’ roll album’s full soundtrack to life with cutting-edge fulldome visuals. Pink Floyd album cover designer Aubrey Powell shares, “In the modern parlance, it’s truly immersive; an all-encompassing surround sound treat that will transcend reality and take you way beyond the realms of 2D experience.”
The Dark Side of the Moon runs about 45-minutes and blends cosmic imagery with subtle nods to the record’s iconic visual legacy. We’re going back to the Moon … Grab your tickets now!
What not to miss during spring break at the Adler Planetarium
While we think catching Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon fulldome show is a top experience to see, if you’re looking for activities for the whole family, the Adler still has tons to offer. Whether you’re visiting Chicago for the first time or are a local, there’s a slew of activities the Adler Planetarium has planned during that time, from March 23–April 5.
Don’t miss the family-friendly Imagine the Moon dome show
Your family will want to look up for this experience! Let the Moon take you on an incredible journey to see how it has sparked imagination for generations. In Imagine the Moon, you’ll learn about everything from ancient myths to the moment astronauts first landed on its surface, forever changing how we see our place in space. Kids and grown-ups alike will love discovering how this glowing orb continues to inspire curiosity and creativity in scientists, artists, dreamers, and more.
Experience new museum experiences from holding real meteorites, talking to scientists, and exploring the Moon
This spring, the museum has added plenty of new experiences to discover. Kids can design and test their own mini spacecraft, see what happens in the vacuum of space,and create their own lunar-inspired art in interactive studios.
For your youngest explorers, they can create their own Moon-inspired artwork. If you have older kids, imagine holding a real piece of the Moon, which we think adults will love as well. You can even have the chance to chat with actual astrophysicists during live science talks. Are you ready to explore the past, present, and future of space exploration at The Adler? Get your tickets here!
Venture to the Doane Observatory for spectacular astronomy experiences
If the weather in Chicago cooperates, there’s telescope sessions to observe the Sun, Moon, and planets up close, which we can bet your child won’t stop talking about once they return to school.
To learn more about the spring break activities, click here. Tickets for The Dark Side of the Moon and Imagine the Moon can be purchased in addition to general museum admission, either as an add-on or as part of select ticket packages.
What people are saying about the Adler Planetarium
“The Adler Planetarium is one of the best spots in Chicago to learn and be amazed at the same time. The sky shows are a must, the exhibits are interactive and fun, and the views of the lake and skyline are worth the trip alone.”
“I loved my visit to the Adler Planetarium! Do not miss one of their dome shows, it was the highlight of my visit. The shows are simply fascinating, you really feel like you’re traveling through space. As a bonus, the location on the lakefront gives you an absolutely incredible view of the city. Well worth it!”
“What a vibe! The Planetarium was a great adventure of fun seeing the solar system and planets was a joy. Every time I come, I am just blown away by the displays. The Adler Planetarium is great for adults, kids and more.”
📍The Adler Planetarium: 1300 S Dusable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60605