Planetarium Star Theater in action
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Strasenburgh Planetarium

4.4
·245 reviews·Rochester, United States

Experience the cosmos with giant screen films, dazzling laser shows, and celestial explorations in an immersive dome theater.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Planetarium Star Theater in action

Strasenburgh Planetarium

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the cosmos with giant screen films, dazzling laser shows, and celestial explorations in an immersive dome theater.

4.4
(245 reviews)

"A dazzling visual spectacle for music lovers and space enthusiasts alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular strasenburgh planetarium shows and laser light shows by booking online in advance. 🎟️

Dress in Layers

The planetarium dome can be cool, so bring a sweater or jacket for comfort. 👕

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.4 · 245 reviews

Type

Planetarium

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giant Screen Films

Giant Screen Films

Dome Theater

Experience breathtaking space documentaries and films on a massive screen, narrated by engaging voices.

TikTok
Laser Light Shows

Laser Light Shows

Dome Theater

Immerse yourself in dazzling laser light shows set to popular music, from classic rock to modern hits.

Instagram+1
Star Shows & Celestial Exploration

Star Shows & Celestial Exploration

Dome Theater

Explore the night sky, learn about constellations, planets, and celestial events in these educational presentations.

Reddit
Galactic Groove Silent Disco

Galactic Groove Silent Disco

Dome Theater

Dance under the stars at a unique silent disco event held within the planetarium dome.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Laser light shows and special events at the Strasenburgh Planetarium can sell out quickly. Booking your strasenburgh planetarium tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend or evening showings. Check the strasenburgh planetarium shows schedule to plan your visit.

Dress for Comfort and Cool Temperatures

The planetarium dome can be quite chilly, so bring a jacket or sweater. While seating has been updated, some reviews mention chairs resembling outdoor lawn chairs, so comfortable attire is key for enjoying the immersive experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings for laser shows
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Special event days
Why
Unique experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

day134: hello!! today i’d like to thank the kind folks at @RMSC 🔬🌿🔭 for sending me a few pairs of eclipse glasses so i can look at the sun without burning my eye balls again. if ur in the Rochester area or would just like to learn more about tomorrows solar eclipse feel free to head over to their instagram where they explain things much better then my robotic monotone voice ever could also, today ...
@milkhouse6000
3.2K likes • 28.7K views

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular strasenburgh planetarium shows and laser light shows by booking online in advance. 🎟️

Dress in Layers

The planetarium dome can be cool, so bring a sweater or jacket for comfort. 👕

The Arne Slettebak Planetarium awaits. 🌎💫
@theohiostateuniversity
1.1K likes • 17.1K views
Opening THIS WEEKEND, Saturday, October 11. Experience the future of space travel under the dome of the Strasenburgh Planetarium with this Giant Screen documentary film, narrated by none other than this generation’s Captain Kirk—Chris Pine 🖖 🔗 in bio for upcoming showtimes
rocrmsc
0 likes • 15 views

Arrive Early for Seating

While seats are assigned, arriving a bit early can help you get your preferred spot in the dome. 💺

Check Show Schedule

Visit the RMSC website for the latest strasenburgh planetarium shows and timings. 📅

didn’t get to experience the eras tour, but really enjoyed a piece of taylormania in rochester. enjoyed every second of the recent @taylorswift laser light show at @rocrmsc’s strasenburgh planetarium. this is definitely not a post i ever anticipated 39-year-old will making. #explorerochester #taylorswift
clevelandroc
82 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular strasenburgh planetarium shows and laser light shows by booking online in advance. 🎟️

Dress in Layers

The planetarium dome can be cool, so bring a sweater or jacket for comfort. 👕

Arrive Early for Seating

While seats are assigned, arriving a bit early can help you get your preferred spot in the dome. 💺

Check Show Schedule

Visit the RMSC website for the latest strasenburgh planetarium shows and timings. 📅

Eclipse Glasses Info

For solar eclipses, ensure you have proper eyewear; the planetarium often provides guidance. 🕶️

What Travellers Say

4.4
(245 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the Strasenburgh Planetarium for its engaging laser light shows and immersive dome experience, particularly for popular music-themed events. However, some guests have expressed disappointment with recent changes to seating comfort and a perceived shift away from traditional star shows towards more modern, sometimes controversial, programming.

"Attended the afternoon showing on Black Holes; have recently visited and seen some of the weekend Lazer Light shows as well.

The star shows, which showcase the night sky, constellations, and planets, are also generally well-received."

Jeffrey Cellini

"Walked out half way through the show. They no longer use the projector for projecting, just to hang a trans flag. I'm not sure what that has to do with space. Comfy chairs with speakers were replaced with garbage. If they over sell tickets, there are lawn chairs they pull out. Theater was filled with small children who could care less about constellations. Thank god the tickets were only $11. Digital imagery was terrible. Show started 10 min late with little kids crying. Just a horrible experience all around."

Dan OToole

"Experience was ok tickets were $13. Chairs are reclining type almost look like lawn chairs. Bought tickets online but had to get in line at the box office to get the actual tickets for someone else to scan and let us in. Additionally, the experience was not a 360 degree view like other planetarium’s we’ve been to."

jayz24981

What People Like

Dazzling laser light shows
Immersive dome visuals
Popular music themes

What People Dislike

Uncomfortable seating
Chilly theater temperature
Shift in show content

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Strasenburgh Planetarium is located at the Rochester Museum and Science Center (RMSC) at 657 East Ave, Rochester, NY. It's accessible by car, with parking available at the museum. Public transportation options also serve the area. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at the Rochester Museum and Science Center, where the planetarium is located. Reddit

Yes, several bus routes serve the East Avenue area, making public transport a viable option to reach the Strasenburgh Planetarium. Check local transit schedules for details.

The Strasenburgh Planetarium is part of the RMSC, which is generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility details regarding seating and facilities within the dome.

Operating hours can vary depending on the day and scheduled shows. It's best to check the official RMSC website for the most up-to-date strasenburgh planetarium hours before your visit.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase strasenburgh planetarium tickets online through the Rochester Museum and Science Center website or at the box office upon arrival. Booking online is recommended for popular shows. Instagram

Ticket prices can vary depending on the show and age group. General admission for shows is often around $11-$13, but special events or laser shows might have different pricing. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance for the popular strasenburgh planetarium laser show, as they often sell out. Instagram+1

Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or members of the RMSC. Check the official website or inquire at the box office for current discount information.

Refund policies can vary. It's best to review the terms and conditions when purchasing your tickets or contact the planetarium directly for their refund policy. Some reviews indicate no refunds are given. Reddit

🎫 ⭐ Onsite Experience

The planetarium offers a variety of shows including giant-screen documentaries about space, educational star shows, and popular laser light shows set to music. They also host special events like silent discos. TikTokInstagram+1

Seating has been updated and resembles reclining chairs, sometimes compared to outdoor lawn chairs. Some visitors find them comfortable for viewing, while others have expressed discomfort. Reddit

Yes, the planetarium is generally considered family-friendly, with engaging shows and educational content. Laser light shows are particularly popular with younger audiences. TikTokInstagram

The planetarium dome can be quite chilly, so it's advisable to dress in layers or bring a jacket for comfort during the shows. Reddit

Yes, the Strasenburgh Planetarium is part of the Rochester Museum and Science Center, which features various science and history exhibits, making it a great destination for a full day of exploration. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the planetarium itself may not have extensive dining facilities, the Rochester Museum and Science Center often has a cafe or snack bar available. It's also located in an area with various dining options nearby. Instagram

Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the planetarium theater. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering the show. Check the RMSC's policy for specifics.

The RMSC cafe usually offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages suitable for museum visitors. Options may include sandwiches, salads, and kid-friendly items.

Yes, the Strasenburgh Planetarium is located in Rochester, NY, which has a wide array of restaurants and eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods, offering diverse culinary experiences.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography and videography are generally not allowed during shows inside the planetarium dome to avoid disturbing other guests and for copyright reasons. Flash photography is strictly prohibited. TikTok

While photos are restricted during shows, the exterior of the planetarium and the surrounding RMSC grounds offer opportunities for photography. The unique dome structure can make for interesting shots. Instagram

Consider visiting during daylight hours for exterior shots of the building. For interior ambiance, you might capture some atmosphere before or after a show, but always check with staff regarding photo policies.

For special events like laser light shows, photography policies are usually very strict due to the lighting effects. It's best to assume no photos or videos are allowed during the performance itself.

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