FAQ

At this time, the Adler Planetarium is no longer offering memberships. However, our new Star Pass ticket option gets you similar benefits like unlimited entry to the museum for one year including sky shows, and discounts in our Cosmic Cafe and Space Shop on every visit.

How do members get tickets to the Adler?

Current members can reserve tickets through our new Pass Portal, where you can reserve your free tickets to the museum for an upcoming visit.

What is my membership expiration date?

Your membership expiration date is based on the number of months you had left in your membership as of March 2020. Please reference the email you received on February 14 for more information. If you’re unable to find that information, please reach out to supportadler@adlerplanetarium.org for assistance.

If I choose to donate my membership or request a refund, how can I visit the Adler?

All tickets must be bought online, in advance of your visit. You can learn more about our ticketing options here, including the all new Star Pass, which gives you unlimited entry to the museum for one year with access to all exhibitions and sky shows. Check out all of the things you should ‘know before you go’ right here.

What would my donation to the Adler support? 

Your tax-deductible contribution will help support the Adler’s physical reopening, and the expansion of our digital spaces, creating opportunities for explorers across the world to learn and connect under the sky we all share.

If I choose to donate my membership, will that be tax deductible? 

The donated portion of your membership, based on the number of months you had left in your membership as of March 2020, may be tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor for more information.

How long will you extend my membership? 

Your membership will be extended based on the number of months remaining in your membership as of March 2020. Please reach out to supportadler@adlerplanetarium.org to confirm your new expiration date.

How many people are included in my membership?

• Individual: Benefits for 1 adult
• Dual: Benefits for 2 adults
• Family: Benefits for 2 adults and 4 children (up to age 17)
• Family & Friends: Benefits for 2 adults, 2 guests and 6 children (up to age 17)
• Friends Circle: Benefits for 2 cardholders, 2 guests, and up to 6 children (up to age 17)
• Alan B. Shepard Society: Benefits for 2 cardholders, 6 guests, and up to 6 children (up to age 17)

If I choose to get a refund, how much will I be refunded?

Your refund amount will be based on the number of months you had left in your membership as of March 2020. Please reach out to supportadler@adlerplanetarium.org to confirm this amount and for more information about your refund.

Monday: 9:00 am–4:00 pm

Tuesday: 9:00 am–4:00 pm

Wednesday: 4:00 pm–10:00 pm*

Thursday: 9:00 am–4:00 pm

Friday: 9:00 am–4:00 pm

Saturday: 9:00 am–4:00 pm

Sunday: 9:00 am–4:00 pm

*Every Wednesday night is free for Illinois Residents with proof of residency. To show proof of residency, you can use a valid Illinois driver’s license or photo ID, Illinois student ID with photo, or a photo ID plus a document (utility bill, lease, etc.) that shows your name and Illinois address.

The Adler Planetarium is closed on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.

Where can I access the Pass Portal?

To access the Pass Portal, please go here on our website. From there,  select from the options listed to log into the Pass Portal to reserve tickets and sky shows for an upcoming visit.

Feed your body and your mind in the Cosmic Cafe! You’ll find a variety of freshly prepared lunch and snack options, including an array of soups, salads, sandwiches, desserts, and beverages. Vegetarian and gluten-free options too! Enjoy a spectacular view of the city through the floor-to-ceiling windows in the cafe or dine picnic-style outside. If the sky is clear, keep an eye out for the Adler telescope volunteers who often lead free public viewings in the park surrounding the museum.

Vending machines are near the Accessible Entrance right by the Education Hubs.

No outside food is allowed to be brought inside the museum with the exception of guests with special dietary needs or who suffer from sensitive or life-threatening food allergies.

A universe of gifts for the discerning space explorer. The Space Shop offers educational toys and games, space books and videos, Adler gear, and much more. You can also visit the Space Shop online!

Guests may visit the Adler Space Shop without purchasing a ticket to the museum. Please inquire at the Accessible Entrance.

Accessible restrooms are located on the third floor on both the north and south sides of the building. A single-occupancy restroom is also available on the third floor near the Accessible Entrance. Additional restrooms are located on the second floor. For specific restroom locations, please refer to our building map.

Guests may connect to the “Adler Universe” network for free during their visit. No password is required. Signal strength may vary in different areas of the museum.

A limited number of manual wheelchairs are available at the Accessible Entrance (ground level entrance to the right of the main staircase). A photo ID is required for complimentary use of a wheelchair.

Guests may bring their own wheelchairs. Please note that segways and motorized vehicles (aside from wheelchairs) are not permitted.

The Adler is committed to providing all visitors with equal access to all facilities, programs, shows, and activities. Please visit our accessibility page for more detailed information!

Guests may bring their own strollers. Guests should note that strollers are not permitted in theaters; however stroller parking is available outside each theater. On peak days, additional stroller parking may be available. Ask an Adler staff member for details once you arrive.

Mothers are welcome to nurse wherever they are comfortable within the building. A private nursing room is located outside the entrance to Planet Explorers on the fourth floor. This room is available for use during both day and evening events; no special key or staff assistance is required for access.

If the door handle indicates “occupied,” please see an Adler staff member who can help you find an alternative private space, if desired.

Basic first-aid supplies are located at both box offices. Please speak with a staff member should you have any medical needs during your visit.

For lost and found items, please inquire at the security kiosk located at the Accessible Entrance or call 312-322-0519.

Bags and backpacks are allowed inside the museum, however we do not have a coat check available, so whatever you bring in with you must be carried throughout the museum.

Filming and photography for personal use is allowed at the Adler Planetarium, but is strictly prohibited in our sky shows and theaters. Cameras must be hand-held and not appear professional in nature. No special lighting or tripods are allowed. Filming should not pose a disruption to guests or staff nor should either be filmed without their consent.

A PNC Bank ATM is located just outside Cosmic Cafe, across from the security desk.

Elevators are located throughout the museum to accommodate our guests. For specific locations, please consult our building map. Guests looking to access the Johnson Family Star Theater from the first floor will need to ask a staff member for assistance with elevator access.

Water fountains can be found outside each restroom.

See an Adler staff member for assistance in locating your party should you be separated.

Filming and photography for personal use is allowed at the Adler Planetarium, but is strictly prohibited in our sky shows and theaters. Cameras must be hand-held and not appear professional in nature. No special lighting or tripods are allowed. Filming should not pose a disruption to guests or staff nor should either be filmed without their consent.

To inquire about the availability of an amenity that is not described above, please contact guestservices@adlerplanetarium.org.