The Franklin Institute Planetarium is in Philadelphia and shows films and live programs in a dome theater

The Franklin Institute is a science museum located at 222 North 20th Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The planetarium is one section of the museum and uses a dome-shaped theater to project shows about space, astronomy, and related topics. The theater seats several hundred people and the dome allows images to wrap around the audience.

The planetarium operates as part of the larger museum, which means you purchase admission to the museum itself to enter the planetarium. The museum is open most days of the week, though hours vary by season. You can visit the planetarium during regular museum hours without booking a separate ticket for just the planetarium — your museum admission covers it.

The Franklin Institute also hosts special events, evening programs, and themed nights that may have different pricing or scheduling than daytime visits. Some of these programs are advertised on the museum's website and through email if you sign up for their mailing list.

Key Takeaways

  • The Franklin Institute planetarium is located at 222 North 20th Street in Philadelphia and operates as part of the larger science museum.
  • Museum admission covers access to the planetarium; you do not purchase a separate planetarium ticket.
  • Current hours, admission prices, and show times are listed on the Franklin Institute's official website.
  • The museum offers special evening programs and themed events beyond regular daytime shows, with separate pricing for some events.
  • Parking is available nearby, though the museum is also accessible by public transit and walking from Center City Philadelphia.

What shows and programs run at the planetarium

The Franklin Institute planetarium rotates its shows throughout the year. Past programs have covered topics like the solar system, distant galaxies, the search for life beyond Earth, and the history of space exploration. The museum updates its show schedule regularly, so the specific titles and topics change.

Shows typically run 20 to 40 minutes and are designed for different age groups. Some programs are geared toward young children and use simpler language and shorter run times. Others are aimed at older children and adults and include more detailed scientific information. The museum's website lists which shows are currently running and recommends age ranges for each one.

Beyond the regular rotating shows, the Franklin Institute occasionally hosts special events such as evening programs for adults, themed nights tied to astronomy events, or programs that combine the planetarium with other museum exhibits. These special programs may have different ticket prices or require advance registration.

Admission prices and how to purchase tickets

The Franklin Institute charges admission to enter the museum, which includes access to the planetarium. Admission prices vary based on age — the museum typically offers different rates for adults, seniors, children, and sometimes military or educator discounts. Prices also vary depending on whether you visit on a weekday or weekend, and some days may have special pricing.

You can purchase tickets at the museum's entrance on the day of your visit, or you can buy them in advance through the Franklin Institute's website. Buying tickets online sometimes offers a discount compared to purchasing at the door. The website shows current prices and allows you to select your visit date before checkout.

Some visitors hold memberships to the Franklin Institute, which provide unlimited visits and may include other perks like discounts at the museum shop or special member-only events. The museum's website explains membership options and their costs.

Parking, transit, and how to get there

The Franklin Institute is located in the Benjamin Franklin Parkway area of Philadelphia, near City Hall and other cultural institutions. If you drive, there is paid parking available in nearby lots and garages. Street parking is also available in the neighborhood, though availability varies by time of day and day of week.

Public transit serves the area well. The SEPTA regional rail and bus lines stop near the museum. The closest regional rail station is 30th Street Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the museum. Several bus routes run along or near the Parkway.

The museum is walkable from Center City Philadelphia and from nearby hotels and restaurants. If you are visiting from outside the city, you can take SEPTA regional rail from Philadelphia International Airport or from other stations in the region.

What to bring and what to expect during your visit

Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to purchase discounted tickets (for example, student or senior rates). The museum allows personal bags and backpacks, though large items may be subject to inspection. You can bring your own water bottle, though the museum also has a café and vending machines.

The planetarium dome theater is climate-controlled and can be cool, so bringing a light jacket is sometimes helpful. The dome seating is tiered so that most seats have a good view of the dome screen, though seats closer to the center of the theater may offer a more immersive experience.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your show time to find your seat and settle in. The theater doors close once a show begins, so arriving early helps you avoid missing the start. If you are visiting with young children, consider checking the age recommendations for each show beforehand to may support the content and length are appropriate.

Accessibility and accommodations

The Franklin Institute is wheelchair accessible. The building has elevators, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking spaces in nearby lots. The planetarium theater itself is accessible, though the dome seating is tiered and some seats may be easier to reach than others depending on your mobility needs.

If you need accommodations such as a sign language interpreter, assistive listening devices, or other services, contact the Franklin Institute in advance. The museum's website lists a phone number and email address for accessibility inquiries. Providing advance notice helps the museum prepare the appropriate accommodations for your visit.

Service animals are permitted in the museum and planetarium. Pets are not permitted except for certified service animals.

Planning your full museum visit around the planetarium

The planetarium is one of many exhibits and attractions at the Franklin Institute. The museum also includes hands-on science exhibits, an IMAX theater, a train ride, and interactive displays covering topics like physics, biology, and technology. Many visitors spend several hours exploring the entire museum.

If you want to see a planetarium show and also explore other exhibits, plan for at least three to four hours. If you are interested only in the planetarium show, you can complete that in about one hour including arrival and departure time. The museum's website has a map and descriptions of all exhibits so you can decide what to prioritize.

The museum has a café with food and beverages available for purchase. You can also bring your own snacks and eat in designated areas. Plan your timing so you have time for meals if you are spending a full day at the museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book the planetarium show in advance or can I just show up?

You can purchase museum admission tickets online in advance or at the door on the day of your visit. Advance purchase sometimes offers a discount. Show times are listed on the museum's website, and you can check availability before you go. During busy times, advance tickets may sell out, so purchasing ahead is recommended if you are visiting on a weekend or holiday.

Are there planetarium shows specifically for young children?

Yes, the Franklin Institute offers shows designed for different age groups, including programs for young children. These shows are typically shorter and use simpler language. The museum's website lists the age recommendations for each show so you can choose one that matches your child's age and attention span.

Can I bring food and drinks into the planetarium theater?

Outside food and drinks are typically not permitted in the planetarium theater itself. However, the museum has a café where you can purchase food and beverages, and you can eat in designated areas of the museum before or after your show. Check the museum's current policies on its website or by calling ahead.

What if I arrive late for a show — can I still enter the theater?

Theater doors close once a show begins to avoid disrupting the audience. If you arrive after a show starts, you will not be able to enter that showing. You can watch the next show time instead. Arriving 15 minutes early helps may support you have time to find your seat before the show begins.

Is the planetarium theater comfortable for people with motion sickness?

The dome theater projects images that wrap around the audience, which can create a sense of motion or immersion. If you are prone to motion sickness, sit toward the back or side of the theater rather than directly under the center of the dome. You can also contact the museum in advance to discuss your concerns and ask for seating recommendations.