Chicago skyline from the Alder Planetarium. To the left is the sundial, Man Enters the Cosmos.
Inhibition: A solo visit to the Alder Planetarium After Dark monthly event that’s marketed, “perfect date night” feels a little looser-ish.
Betty’s Response: …and staying home, missing out on this, is a step towards the winner’s circle? Geez…
Experience:
Adler Planetarium After Dark Event, 6-10pm
3rd Thursday of the month, 21+, Advance ticket $15, Members $10, At the door $20.
1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Museum Campus
Every month is a different schedule of events, shows, and activities. Some that I enjoyed…
Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance; Beekeeping presentations by GPCA’s head beekeeper Naaman Gambill…also hosted by GPCA was a honey tasting, YUM!
Space Junk, A 3-D, 22 minute film about the debris left behind after 50 years in space and the possible solutions.
I also saw, in the Grainger domed theater, “Cosmic Wonder.” I believe this was my favorite part of the evening because of the theater. It was completely immersive as you lean back in the chairs and travel in and out of solar systems.
Permanent installations like the overhead 3-D depiction of our solar system…
The Gemini XII capsule and…
The installation, Remembering Gemini 12, “shooting for the moon.”
What I didn’t know: That having a date isn’t necessary to enjoy this monthly event! That even though I was at the planetarium when the doors opened, there was so much more to do and see for my next visit. For example, Doane Observatory which houses Chicago’s largest public telescope. You need to purchase this ticket EARLY as the tour of the observatory and a peep at celestial wonders always sells out. I also had no idea how many programs Adler offers (during day time hours) to students/school groups (Illinois school students general admission is free), families, and explorers.
OO and I also didn’t know that the Garfield Conservatory has bee hives producing honey from flowers grown there AND you can purchase the raw honey in their gift shop.
Good times!
So Betty and I are out for now but before we go, an extension to ALL!!! Get out there and SHOW ME WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW!!!
