Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center
Explore the cosmos at the unique, hyperbolic paraboloid-shaped Fleischmann Planetarium with its immersive SkyDome and fascinating space exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for school groups.
Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for school groups.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the cosmos at the unique, hyperbolic paraboloid-shaped Fleischmann Planetarium with its immersive SkyDome and fascinating space exhibits.
"Small but out of this world; bring the kids and your inner child too!"
Check Show Schedule First
Public shows are limited; plan your visit around the SkyDome schedule.
Parking Permit is Key
Get a free parking permit from staff to avoid tickets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SkyDome Theater Shows
SkyDome Theater
Immersive full-dome films and live presentations exploring the cosmos and beyond.
Spaceflight & Solar System Exhibits
Exhibition Hall
Fascinating displays on space exploration, planets, and the scale of the solar system.
1-Ton Meteorite
Main Exhibit Area
A massive, awe-inspiring meteorite that offers a tangible connection to outer space.
Cherry Blossom Garden
Between Nevada State Historical Society and Planetarium
A serene, arboretum-designated garden with cherry trees and azaleas, a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Shows
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Show Schedule First
Public shows are limited; plan your visit around the SkyDome schedule.
Parking Permit is Key
Get a free parking permit from staff to avoid tickets.
Affordable Family Fun
Great value for families, with low admission costs.
Support with Gift Shop
Buy souvenirs to support the museum's operations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Show Schedule First
Public shows are limited; plan your visit around the SkyDome schedule.
Parking Permit is Key
Get a free parking permit from staff to avoid tickets.
Affordable Family Fun
Great value for families, with low admission costs.
Support with Gift Shop
Buy souvenirs to support the museum's operations.
First Planetarium with 360°
Experience the first planetarium with a 360-degree projector.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Fleischmann Planetarium for its affordability, educational value, and immersive SkyDome shows, making it a great spot for families and space enthusiasts. However, some reviews note issues with broken exhibits and confusing parking/signage, leading to occasional disappointment.
"Small but excellent educational activity. Admission is only a few dollars and parking is free on weekends. I have elementary aged kids and this place is perfect. We can stop in, watch a dome show, and spend 15 minutes learning something new. It is easy to access, so we come more often and enjoy it more. I used to visit a large planetarium in Chicago that was impressive but expensive and an all day commitment with challenging parking. This community planetarium is simple, affordable, and welcoming. The front desk staff were very kind and helpful."
Daun Vaswani
"I visited on Friday 20, 2024 in December. Small but out of this world. Bring the kids in your life and your inner child too. There’s (very limited and free) reserved parking across the foot bridge on the third floor of the parking structure. Snag a permit from the staff and be sure to read the signs to prevent a parking ticket. Apply those savings in the little gift shop to support the museum."
Seventh River
"Extremely disappointing experience. The planetarium was advertised as free, but when we arrived, we were unexpectedly charged at the entrance - no explanation, just a demand for payment. Most of the machines and interactive exhibits were broken or out of order. Honestly, there was nothing interesting to see.
To make things worse, the place was filled with random items that had nothing to do with astronomy - like a sarcophagus, Iron Man masks, and other bizarre decorations. It felt more like a chaotic storage room than an educational space.
Total waste of time and money. We came expecting a meaningful and inspiring experience about space and science, and instead got a messy, disorganized letdown. Would not recommend."
Maria
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus, it's accessible by car. Parking can be tricky; look for limited free reserved spots on the 3rd floor of the parking structure across the footbridge and obtain a permit from staff.
Information on specific bus routes is not readily available, but the university campus is generally accessible via local public transit. Check RTC Washoe for current routes.
Limited free reserved parking is available on the third floor of the parking structure across the footbridge. You'll need to get a permit from the staff.
Reviews suggest parking is free on weekends, but it's always best to confirm with staff or check signage upon arrival.
Yes, it's possible if you don't follow parking regulations or obtain the required permit. Read all signs carefully.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally affordable, with some reviews mentioning it's only a few dollars. Special events like laser shows may have different pricing.
Yes, the planetarium has participated in Smithsonian Magazine's Museum Day, offering free admission on specific dates. Keep an eye out for these events.
While not always required for general exhibits, it's highly recommended to check the show schedule and book tickets in advance for SkyDome theater presentations, especially for popular shows.
The planetarium is open seven days a week for prearranged programs like field trips. Public shows in the full-dome theater are scheduled, so check their website for current showtimes.
Yes, you can explore the science exhibits and see the meteorite even if you don't attend a SkyDome show.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
Explore exhibits on spaceflight, the solar system, and flight principles. Don't miss the 1-ton meteorite and the immersive SkyDome theater shows.
Some reviews mention that many machines and interactive exhibits were broken or out of order, which was a point of disappointment for some visitors.
Shows range from explorations of the cosmos and planets to live presentations of the Reno night sky, and even special laser shows set to music like Taylor Swift's.
Absolutely! It's described as perfect for elementary-aged kids, offering short, educational dome shows and engaging exhibits.
It's the only planetarium in the world built in the shape of a hyperbolic paraboloid and was the first to feature 360-degree projection.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted during shows. Check for any posted signage.
The SkyDome theater during a show (if permitted), the 1-ton meteorite, and the exterior architecture offer great photo opportunities. The cherry blossom garden is also picturesque.
Yes, flash photography and video recording are typically prohibited during SkyDome shows to avoid distracting the audience and disrupting the projection.
Drone usage is generally not permitted on university campuses or within indoor facilities like planetariums due to safety and privacy concerns.
Searching on Instagram and TikTok with hashtags like #FleischmannPlanetarium and #RenoNevada will yield many user-generated photos and videos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to check the show schedule in advance, as public showings are limited. The parking situation can be a bit confusing, so aim to arrive a little early to sort out parking permits and find your way. The staff are generally described as kind and helpful, adding to a welcoming family atmosphere.
🚀 Space Enthusiasts & Science Buffs
it provides an unparalleled immersive view of the cosmos. The exhibits delve into the history of spaceflight and the mechanics of our solar system, including a substantial 1-ton meteorite Beyond the permanent exhibits, keep an eye out for special events like the science fiction film festivals
💡 Budget-Conscious Travelers
While some reviews mention issues with broken exhibits,
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture of the Atmospherium
This distinctive form not only makes it visually striking but also contributes to its innovative projection capabilities. It was also the first planetarium globally to showcase 360-degree projection technology, offering an unparalleled immersive experience for visitors exploring the cosmos.This architectural marvel, established in 1963 on the University of Nevada, Reno campus, has been a hub for scientific discovery and public engagement for decades. Its design allows for a seamless and expansive view of the celestial sphere, making the planetarium shows incredibly captivating. The building itself is a testament to forward-thinking design in science education.
Visitors often remark on the unusual shape and the impressive visual experience it facilitates. The combination of its groundbreaking projection system and its singular architectural form makes the Fleischmann Planetarium a noteworthy destination for both its scientific content and its aesthetic appeal.
Experiencing the SkyDome: Shows and Beyond
Beyond traditional astronomy presentations, the planetarium has also embraced innovative programming. They have partnered with entities like Laser Fantasy to create unique laser shows set to popular music, such as a recent show dedicated to Taylor Swift.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to check the show schedule in advance.
Beyond the Stars: Exhibits and Hidden Gems
One reviewer highlighted a poignant exhibit: a letter prepared for the Apollo astronauts in case they did not return from the moon, adding a human element to the scientific endeavor. Another engaging display uses a desert model to illustrate the size and scale of the solar system, offering a truly eye-opening perspective.
Don't overlook the charming Cherry Blossom Garden located between the Nevada State Historical Society and the planetarium.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit