
Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium
Discover natural history and cosmic wonders in a stunning historic building, featuring Vermont's only public planetarium.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover natural history and cosmic wonders in a stunning historic building, featuring Vermont's only public planetarium.
"A museum experience worthy of stopping by!"

🏛️ Admire the Building
The architecture itself is a highlight! Don't miss the radius ceiling and spiral stairs. :camerawithflash:
🦋 Butterfly House Fun
The butterfly sanctuary is included with admission. A sweet spot for a peaceful moment. :butterfly:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture
Main Building
Marvel at the stunning radius ceiling, spiral staircase, and intricate millwork. A true architectural gem.

Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Experience the cosmos in Vermont's only publicly available planetarium. Educational and captivating shows await.

Butterfly House
Outdoor Exhibit
A delightful sanctuary where you can observe butterflies in a natural setting. A peaceful and enchanting stop.

Natural History Collections
Exhibition Halls
Explore over 30,000 specimens, artifacts, and photographs spanning natural history and local heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Night at the Museum' Vibe
Plan for Educational Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Need recs for stuff to do - St. johnsbury
🏛️ Admire the Building
The architecture itself is a highlight! Don't miss the radius ceiling and spiral stairs. :camerawithflash:
🦋 Butterfly House Fun
The butterfly sanctuary is included with admission. A sweet spot for a peaceful moment. :butterfly:
St. Johnsbury!
What's everyone's favorite museum?
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Science
Hands-on science exhibits make learning fun for younger visitors. :child:
⭐ Plan for 2+ Hours
Allow ample time to explore exhibits and catch a planetarium show. :stopwatch:
Eclipse Recommendations Around St Johnsbury
Tips
from all over the internet
🏛️ Admire the Building
The architecture itself is a highlight! Don't miss the radius ceiling and spiral stairs. :camerawithflash:
🦋 Butterfly House Fun
The butterfly sanctuary is included with admission. A sweet spot for a peaceful moment. :butterfly:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Science
Hands-on science exhibits make learning fun for younger visitors. :child:
⭐ Plan for 2+ Hours
Allow ample time to explore exhibits and catch a planetarium show. :stopwatch:
🛍️ Unique Gift Shop
Find museum-themed souvenirs, shirts, hats, and stickers. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium for its charming historic architecture and engaging educational exhibits, particularly for families. The planetarium and butterfly sanctuary are standout features, offering unique experiences. While some note the butterfly count can vary, the overall sentiment is that it's a worthwhile stop for its educational value and classic museum charm.
"What a great place. We have been here a few times. Every time we go.. I get a "night in the museum" feeling. The buildings architecture, that radius ceiling, the spiral stairs, and the millwork alone is amazing, what craftsmanship. They have a great area in the back for butterflies and many learning areas for kids. So very educational here."
Kevin Perron
"cool little museum with interesting artifacts in a beautiful older building. gift shop was nice and had museum themed shirts, hats and stickers."
jennifer p
"A museum experience worthy of stopping by!
We visited the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium during our visit to Vermont and were pleasantly surprised by the amount of items that were on display! Keeping in mind that this is a museum in small town Vermont this museum has a decent selection of artifacts/fossils available to view along with different shows that are out on throughout the course of the day, including a demonstration in the museum's planetarium, which according to staff is the only publicly available planetarium in Vermont! This is a good spot to bring kids to learn a little bit about the world around them!
The Butterfly sanctuary out back is included with admission and is a neat stop. Not many butterflies to see on our visit, but it was great to see what we could!"
Joe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium is located in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. If you're coming from the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, it's just a short walk away, making it convenient to visit both attractions together.
Information on direct public transportation routes to the museum can be limited in smaller towns like St. Johnsbury. It's best to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
Street parking is generally available in the vicinity of the museum. During peak times, you might need to explore a block or two away. Check for any posted parking restrictions.
Absolutely! The St. Johnsbury Athenaeum is a short walk from the museum and is highly recommended for a combined visit.
While the historic building has charm, some older structures may have limitations. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and accommodations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally include access to the museum exhibits and the butterfly sanctuary. Planetarium shows may have a separate fee or be included in a package. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing information.
While not always mandatory, booking planetarium tickets in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods or for specific showtimes, to ensure you get a seat for the show you want to see.
Operating hours can change seasonally. Typically, the museum is open during daytime hours, with specific times for planetarium shows. Always verify the current hours on their official website before your visit.
Yes, the butterfly sanctuary is generally included with your general admission ticket, making it a delightful bonus to your museum visit.
The museum may offer discounts for seniors, students, or children. Check their website or inquire at the ticket counter for any available discount programs. Family activity packages are also a good value.
🎫 ⭐ Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of exhibits, including natural history specimens, historical artifacts, photographs, and interactive science displays. There's also a notable exhibit on dinosaurs and birds.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum, enjoy a planetarium show, and visit the butterfly house.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly with hands-on science exhibits and engaging displays that appeal to children of all ages. The butterfly house is also a hit with kids.
The Fairbanks Planetarium is noted as the only publicly available planetarium in Vermont, offering unique educational shows about the cosmos.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. It's best to check for posted signs or ask staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself typically does not have a full-service restaurant. However, there might be a small cafe or vending machines for snacks and drinks. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to dine at nearby restaurants in St. Johnsbury.
St. Johnsbury offers several cafes and eateries. You can find local spots for a quick bite or a more substantial meal. The St. Johnsbury Athenaeum area might have some charming cafes nearby.
Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's generally recommended to consume your own food and beverages outside the exhibit areas, perhaps in a designated picnic spot if available, or before/after your visit.
Many local eateries in St. Johnsbury are accustomed to families. Look for diners or casual restaurants that offer a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu suitable for children.
St. Johnsbury offers a range of dining options, from classic American fare to cafes with lighter options. You'll find local flavors and familiar favorites.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic architecture, especially the grand staircase and radius ceiling, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The butterfly house also provides colorful subjects.
Personal photography for non-commercial use is generally permitted. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect delicate exhibits. Always look for signage or ask staff.
A versatile camera with good low-light performance is ideal, especially for the interior shots of the historic building. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the architecture.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around public buildings and attractions due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted.
Weekday mornings often offer fewer crowds, allowing for more relaxed photography. Natural light filtering through the windows can also enhance the ambiance of the historic interior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Admirers
🔭 Science Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Science
Beyond its historical collections, the museum is a hub for scientific exploration. Its planetarium, the only publicly available planetarium in Vermont, provides captivating shows that illuminate the wonders of the cosmos. This blend of historical preservation and scientific education makes the Fairbanks Museum a unique destination, appealing to a wide range of interests and ages. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of history while gazing at the stars.
Family Fun and Educational Adventures
A major highlight for families is the butterfly sanctuary located out back. This peaceful enclosure offers a chance to observe butterflies in a natural setting, providing a delightful and serene experience. While the number of butterflies can vary, the sanctuary itself is a charming addition to the museum visit. Combined with the planetarium shows, which are designed to be accessible and engaging for all ages, the Fairbanks Museum offers a well-rounded family experience that educates and entertains.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit