No trip to Chicago would be complete for the science lover without a visit to the Adler Planetarium. The Art Deco-style museum is located on Lakeshore Drive right on the shores of Lake Michigan and offers not only breathtaking views of the universe, but stunning views of the city skyline as well. Book your trip to the Planetarium online, and if you’d prefer not to deal with the hassle of public transportation or downtown Chicago parking, schedule a ride with Signature Transportation Group and make getting there half the fun.
History of the Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium was founded in 1930 by Chicago businessman Max Adler. Adler’s mission was to inspire others in a quest for understanding of the universe. Originally considered as part of the Museum of Science and Industry, delays to the renovation of the Palace of Fine Arts—which was to house the Museum—caused Adler to look elsewhere. Settling instead on Northerly Island, Adler set out to build his legacy. He donated $500,000 for the building of the Museum as well as a collection of antique scientific instruments that he purchased from an auction in Amsterdam in order to kickstart what would become the first planetarium (and largest museum) of its type in the Western Hemisphere.
Notable Features
The Adler offers access to hundreds of activities and dozens of interactive displays, as well as three domed theaters that allow guests to see the universe up close.
Perhaps the most notable feature of the museum, however, is its exhibits:
- Chasing Eclipses: The newest temporary exhibit immerses visitors in the science of a solar eclipse and explores exactly what happens when the moon shadows the sun.
- Mission Moon: Learn how the United States became the first nation to send a man to the moon, the many trials and tribulations of the space program, and what it felt like to be there standing on an alien world through the eyes of Capt. Lovell of the beleaguered Apollo 13 mission.
- Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass: Explore the 400-year history of the telescope and learn how it changed our understanding of the universe and how we see our place within it.
- The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time: Visitors are transported back to the beginning of the universe and can follow it from its beginnings until now. Guests can even transport themselves beyond our solar system using high-resolution images from some of the most advanced telescopes on the planet.
Annual Events
The Adler also hosts annual events including the Celestial Ball, an elegant cocktail reception with a silent auction and dinner service that features live demonstrations from some of the Adler’s most clever teen volunteers. The museum even offers the public access to regular events and the ability to rent the facility for private events including weddings and private parties.
Let Signature Transportation Group Help
A trip to the Adler Planetarium should be filled with wonder, excitement, and educational opportunities, not stress, strain, and traffic. Let Signature Transportation Group take care of getting you there in one of our luxurious cars, SUVs, or minibuses. Contact us today at 844.Book.STG or use our convenient online form to schedule the vehicle and service you need.