Apollo, we have a great idea for you.
Whether you’re looking to explore the stars, learn about our solar system, or discover the latest discoveries in space exploration, these planetariums have something for everyone.
In this blog post, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the best planetariums in Milwaukee that are perfect for families to explore together..
1. The Daniel M. Soref Theater & Planetarium (Located inside the Milwaukee Public Museum)
800 W Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Website
MPM’s Planetarium is Wisconsin’s largest and most modern of its kind. It is also the first Planetarium in the world to debut a Digistar 6 computer projection system that fills the entire Dome Theater with stunning 3D animations, creating an immersive astronomy experience. You’ll see breathtaking vistas of the night sky, planets, the Milky Way, and distant wonders of the universe.
2. UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium
1900 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee, WI 53211
Website
The Manfred Olson Planetarium, located on the UWM campus, boasts an optomechanical projector, LED cove lights, constellation projectors, and four digital projectors that project the galaxy, the Milky Way, and more on the Planetarium’s 30-foot dome.
Families can take advantage of affordable Friday Night Movies, free AstroBreak shows on Wednesdays, and free stargazing on the roof, complete with telescopes and hot cocoa.
3. Horwitz-DeRemer Planetarium (Located inside Retzer Nature Center)
S14 W28167 Madison St., Waukesha, WI 53188
website
Located inside the Retzer Nature Center, the 40 ft. dome shaped ceiling in the Charles Horwitz Planetarium recreates the day or night sky by projecting images of the stars, planets, the sun, and the moon. The Digester 6 projector can be set to show the sky for any date, time, or latitude.
You’ll be able to see 2,500 stars fill the sky, along with digital video and sound. The planetarium offers year-round public shows and occasional special events. Check their website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Milwaukee Astronomical Society
18850 W. Observatory Rd., New Berlin, WI 53146
milwaukeeastro.org
The Milwaukee Astronomical Society owns three acres in New Berlin and features several observatory domes and telescopes, all built by its members. They offer public viewing nights during the warmer months, during which visitors can enjoy a tour of the grounds, a presentation on an astronomy topic, and a chance to use the telescopes.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
