Adler Planetarium

Founded in 1930 by philanthropist Max Adler, the Adler Planetarium holds the prestigious title of being the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. Located on the northeastern tip of Northerly Island along the shores of Lake Michigan, it was designed to be a 'classroom under the stars.' Adler's vision was to bring the wonders of the universe to the public, inspired by the planetariums he saw in Germany, particularly the Zeiss projector technology which was revolutionary at the time. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece of the Art Deco style, designed by Ernest A. Grunsfeld Jr. Its distinctive twelve-sided structure is made of rainbow granite and features bronze zodiac plaques designed by sculptor Alfonso Iannelli. In 1931, the design was so well-regarded that it earned the gold medal from the Chicago Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The exterior remains a landmark of the Chicago skyline, symbolizing the intersection of art and science. Over the decades, the Adler has continuously evolved to keep pace with the Space Age and beyond. In 1977, the Doane Observatory was added, housing one of the largest telescopes available for public use in the region. Significant renovations in the late 1990s added the Sky Pavilion, a glass-walled expansion that offers breathtaking views of the city. Today, it remains a premier institution for space science education, housing an incredible collection of historic astronomical instruments and immersive theater experiences.