Kids tend to be curious about space, so it’s only natural to introduce them to one of the planetariums in NJ to make them feel out of this world. Whether it’s visiting the largest planetarium in America at the Liberty Science Center, rocking out to tunes and a sky show at the Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium, or taking in a Laser Show at the Robert J. Novins Planetarium, your family will love spending the day or night taking a trip into space. Read on for information about where to go to space out—no rocket required. (featured photo credit: Liberty Science Center)
10 Planetariums In NJ To See The Stars
Alice and Leonard Dreyfuss Planetarium
The Alice and Leonard Dreyfuss Planetarium in the Newark Museum of Art has unique presentations that change throughout the year—there are usually two shows, one for younger children and one for ages 12 and up. Though the planetarium is smaller than other museums, it still gives you an out-of-this-world experience that kids of all ages will love.
49 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07012
County College of Morris Longo Planetarium
This planetarium is within the County College of Morris, offering an intimate venue with family programs for all ages to learn about planets and the galaxy. Check out the weekly calendar for programs like Cosmic Colors, Messengers of Time and Space, and Starlit Nights.
214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, NJ 07869
Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium
Dubbed the largest planetarium in America, this stunning space is located inside the Liberty Science Center. The 89-foot full-dome view of the night sky and distant galaxies will leave you in absolute wonder as you look up and take it all in. Catch one of their laser shows and visit the museum’s other exhibits afterward.
Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07305
New Jersey State Museum Planetarium
Enjoy space in high definition at this fully upgraded planetarium at the New Jersey State Museum. Thanks to the recent facelift, spending time in this dome will make you feel like you took a trip to space. Get comfy in the reclining seats as the presenter takes you through customized star talks, and you watch the solar system from above.
205 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08625
Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium
This planetarium in New Jersey has something for everyone, from a 3M observatory to fun events, including sensory-friendly shows that dim the lights and tone down the music for more sensitive viewers. Kids will love Astronaut Ice Cream in the gift shop, checking out the observatory, and looking through portable telescopes.
118 Lamington Road, Branchburg, NJ 08876
Ric and Jean Edelman Planetarium
Sit back, relax, and look up at the 360-degree digital sky in this planetarium at the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University. The immersive experience has an ever-changing roster of shows, some timed to rock music (Pink Floyd’s Dark Side Of The Moon, anyone?) or family shows that cater to little bodies, who don’t want to sit for very long. During their open house hours, you can stargaze and view the real night sky through their telescopes.
Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Road, Glassboro, NJ 08028
Robert J. Novins Planetarium
With Sky Shows, Laser Shows, and Full-Dome Movies, this planetarium in New Jersey is one you won’t want to miss. Located inside Ocean County Community College in Toms River, the 103-seat dome theater offers a chance to learn about the solar system, the stars, the Earth, and more.
1 College Drive, Toms River, NJ 08754
Sperry Observatory
Every Friday, this observatory invites the public to an informative talk, followed by views of the night sky. It’s also home to two of the largest amateur-use telescopes on the East Coast: an 18-foot dome and a 20-foot dome made of fiberglass.
1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, NJ 07016
The Buzz Aldrin Astronomical Center
With hours during the summer from 8:30 PM to 10 PM, this observatory is a prime spot to experience the night sky up close and personal. When you visit, take a tour of the facility, and then take a look through the largest public telescope in New Jersey to marvel at the beautiful night sky.
Observatory Road, High Bridge, NJ 08829
William D. McDowell Observatory
Climb 25 steps and access the Observatory telescope, featuring a research-grade, Classical-Cassegrain telescope housed within a six-meter retractable dome with a 20-inch mirror. It’s capable of viewing objects millions of light-years away. The observatory is operated by astronomers from Bergen Community College and holds 15 people.
1 De Korte Park Plaza, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071
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