Fernbank Science Center
Explore the cosmos and natural world at Fernbank Science Center, featuring a free exhibit hall and captivating planetarium shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups, more space
Fernbank Science Center
Best Time
Fewer school groups, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the cosmos and natural world at Fernbank Science Center, featuring a free exhibit hall and captivating planetarium shows.
"The 360-degree planetarium theater offers a unique and immersive experience that's a must-see."
🎯 Free Exhibit Hall Access
Enjoy the main exhibit hall for free! Donations are welcome to support the center.
🎟️ Book Planetarium Tickets
Secure your spot for planetarium shows in advance, especially on weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jim Cherry Memorial Planetarium
Planetarium Theater
Immersive 360-degree shows that transport you through space and underwater worlds.
Observatory & Telescope
Observatory
Gaze at stars and celestial bodies through powerful telescopes with knowledgeable guides.
Interactive Exhibits
Exhibit Hall
Explore hands-on displays on space, nature, and science, including live reptiles and amphibians.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Exhibits, Paid Shows
Timing is Key for Shows
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Exhibit Hall Access
Enjoy the main exhibit hall for free! Donations are welcome to support the center.
🎟️ Book Planetarium Tickets
Secure your spot for planetarium shows in advance, especially on weekends.
🔭 Check Observatory Schedule
Visit the observatory for stargazing, but check weather conditions beforehand.
✨ Attend After Hours Events
Experience Fernbank After Dark for adult-focused evenings with cocktails and special programming.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Exhibit Hall Access
Enjoy the main exhibit hall for free! Donations are welcome to support the center.
🎟️ Book Planetarium Tickets
Secure your spot for planetarium shows in advance, especially on weekends.
🔭 Check Observatory Schedule
Visit the observatory for stargazing, but check weather conditions beforehand.
✨ Attend After Hours Events
Experience Fernbank After Dark for adult-focused evenings with cocktails and special programming.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space for visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fernbank Science Center for its engaging planetarium shows and free exhibit hall, highlighting the immersive 360-degree theater and interactive displays. While some exhibits have changed, the center remains a valuable educational resource, particularly for families. The observatory offers a unique stargazing opportunity, though weather can be a factor.
"It’s a small venue, but the shows are excellent. The theater is 360 degrees, which makes the experience really unique. After the show, they also host a short expert panel discussion, which was a nice touch. I came mainly for the observatory, but since it was too foggy, we only managed to see one small star. Still, the instructor Steve was very kind and knowledgeable. Aside from the observatory and the show, the exhibits are on the smaller side, but overall it’s worth a visit. Plenty of parking is available."
Kelly Lee
"Stop here on Monday… there were a couple of school groups visiting but it wasn’t crowded because we were between the science shows… more groups arrived in time for the next show. There is a nice mix of botanical displays, an area for learning about composting, dinosaur sculptures, an entire hallway devoted to frogs and reptile habitats, and very nice space and solar system exhibits … it is a learning center and all though it may be more directed at teaching students… there is a lot of adults that could benefit from… such as learning about how much plastic is in our oceans 🌊 and waterways 💦 and where it comes from. Science center admission is free but there is a box for donations… tickets are sold for the science shows. I will return both for myself and when my grandsons visit."
Rebecca Mitchell
"We went to the Observatory to see the stars. The Host spent some time briefly explaining what will happen when he turns the lights off. He also shared what we will see. He was open to questions during the entire experience..We will definitely go back. Theiseum was open before the event and we explored it while we waited."
Stacey Chadwell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fernbank Science Center is located in Atlanta, Georgia. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the Druid Hills area.
Yes, Fernbank Science Center offers plenty of parking for visitors, making it convenient to access.
Fernbank Science Center is located near the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, about a mile apart, offering visitors options for a full day of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The exhibit hall at Fernbank Science Center is free to enter and explore. However, planetarium shows and observatory visits have separate ticket prices.
Planetarium show tickets typically cost $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and to book in advance.
While tickets can sometimes be purchased at the door, it's highly recommended to book planetarium tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot, especially for popular shows or weekend visits.
Fernbank Science Center hours vary, especially for planetarium shows and observatory access. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours and show schedules.
Look out for potential discounts or special offers, such as Groupons, which can sometimes be available for planetarium shows.
🎫 🔭 Observatory & Planetarium
The Fernbank Planetarium offers a variety of shows, including space exploration, underwater adventures like 'The Reef,' and educational programs suitable for different age groups.
Yes, the Fernbank Observatory allows visitors to view stars and celestial objects through its telescopes. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable instructors who share insights.
Absolutely! The planetarium shows are designed to be engaging and educational for children, with many finding them captivating.
The 'night star chat' is a special pre-show event at the Fernbank Planetarium where an expert discusses celestial events and what you might see during the show, adding an extra layer of learning.
Yes, the planetarium theater features a 360-degree dome, providing a unique and immersive viewing experience for all attendees.
🎫 🌿 Exhibits & Activities
Fernbank Science Center features a range of exhibits, including botanical displays, composting education, dinosaur sculptures, reptile and amphibian habitats, and space and solar system displays.
Yes, Fernbank Science Center houses live animals, including a variety of frogs and reptiles, adding an exciting element to the exhibits.
Fernbank After Dark is an evening event geared towards adults, offering a chance to explore exhibits, enjoy cocktails, and experience special programming in a relaxed atmosphere.
Many of the exhibits at Fernbank Science Center are designed to be hands-on and interactive, providing an engaging learning experience, especially for children.
Some visitors note that the museum portion of Fernbank has shrunk or may be under construction, with the main focus now appearing to be on the planetarium.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Jim Cherry Memorial Planetarium offers engaging shows that are perfect for young minds, making learning about space and nature an adventure. Consider attending the 'night star chat' before a planetarium show for an extra educational boost. Parking is plentiful, making arrival and departure stress-free. While the planetarium shows have a fee, the value and entertainment they provide are well worth it. Plan for at least an hour to explore the exhibits and another 45 minutes for a planetarium show.
💰 Budget Travelers
This means you can explore a variety of scientific wonders without spending a dime on admission. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory for exhibit access. While planetarium shows and observatory visits do have ticket costs, they are reasonably priced, especially when compared to other attractions. Look for potential discounts like Groupons to save even more.
🌌 Science Enthusiasts & Stargazers
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the diverse exhibits, which cover topics from environmental science to space exploration. The 'Fernbank After Dark' events also provide a unique, adult-oriented evening to delve deeper into scientific themes with a social atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fernbank Planetarium Experience
Many find the shows to be both educational and visually stunning, making them a highlight for all ages. The center often hosts a 'night star chat' before select shows, providing an extra layer of insight into astronomy. It's important to note that planetarium tickets are separate from general admission to the exhibit hall. Due to the popularity of the shows, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times or weekends.
The theater's design ensures that every seat offers a fantastic view, contributing to the overall awe-inspiring nature of the experience. Beyond the shows, the planetarium staff are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. They are open to questions and contribute to making the visit both informative and enjoyable. This focus on engaging presentation elevates the planetarium from just a viewing experience to a true learning opportunity.
Exploring the Free Exhibits
The exhibits are designed to be interactive and hands-on, encouraging visitors, especially children, to engage directly with scientific concepts. This approach makes learning fun and memorable. Topics like the impact of plastic pollution on oceans are also highlighted, fostering environmental awareness.
While some visitors have noted that certain exhibits may have changed or are no longer available, the core offerings remain a valuable and engaging experience. The free admission makes it an accessible option for families and individuals looking for an educational outing without a significant cost.
Stargazing at the Observatory
The observatory experience is often described as both fascinating and educational. Instructors are typically on hand to explain what is being observed and answer any questions visitors might have, making the stargazing session more enriching.
It's important to be aware of weather conditions, as fog or cloud cover can significantly impact visibility. Checking the forecast and the observatory's schedule is advisable before planning a visit. Despite potential weather limitations, the opportunity to explore the night sky with expert guidance is a compelling reason to visit.
Social
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