With breathtaking countryside views, lively music, and remarkable historical monuments, It’s not hard to see why Texas is the preferred destination of the many people drawn to the city of the lone star.
Texas is a place full of charm and the sheer ability to captivate even the most unenthusiastic of people, who certainly have a lot of beautiful sights to behold.
Its planetariums are no exception to that, as all of them are unique, with an excellent combination of intricacy and history.
If you want a tour of the black, beautiful night sky, stars, planets, and everything in the cosmos, this article will feed your curious mind with all you need to know.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the bestMuseums in Texas.
Planetariums in Arlington & Burnet, Texas.
1. Planetarium At the University of Texas at Arlington – Arlington, Texas (UTA Prestigious Experience)
It is almost impossible not to be impressed by the imposing building centered at the heart of the prestigious University of Texas campus, designed to create surreal experiences for visitors of this state-of-the-art Planetarium.
Cementing its position as one of the three colossal planetariums in Texas, The UTA Planetarium is well equipped with modern, state-of-the-art facilities such as an all-computerized projection system, the best sound management technology, and a 60-foot dome projection surface.
All these combine to provide the best possible experience while immersed in the solar system’s spectacular displays of stars and celestial phenomena.
It also boasts of having some of the most well-informed astronomers on the planet who are always ready to wow the audience with facts and information on discoveries about our solar system.
In case you plan on visiting the UTA Planetarium, the doors are always open 10 minutes before the show (which last about an hour), as late seating is highly discouraged.
You’re sure to have a fantastic time, though.
Address: 700 Planetarium Place, Arlington, TX 76019.
2.Eagle Eye Observatory, Burnet, Texas, United States (Nature-Immersed Planetarium)
If you still need to be fascinated by the beautiful natural scenery of the Environs of the Eagle Eye observatory, which is almost guaranteed not to happen, wait till you enter the dome in all its Glory.
One thing which is appealing to people who visit this particular Planetarium is that its location in a Natural Park allows people to be close to nature and admire the heavenly bodies, leaving long-lasting magical moments in their memories.
It is also reputed to be one of the best sites if you want to see something exceptional in the galaxy, such as meteor showers.
The Astronomers in the Observatory are also some of the best you can find around.
With the number of positive reviews it gathers yearly, be rest assured you’re in for a sensational time.
Address: 16942 Ranch Road, 2341 Canyon of the Eagles Resort, Burnet, TX 78611-3168.
Also see our article onAquariums in Texas.
Planetariums in Houston, Texas.
1.Burke Baker Planetarium at The Houston Museum Of Natural Science – Houston, Texas (Cutting-Edge Visual Technologies)
First fully commissioned in 1964, the Burke Baker Planetarium has hosted multitudes of people ranging from school children on excursions to Tourist groups.
Having undergone many transformations and upgrades, the Planetarium sits very high in the standings of being one of the best in Texas and the United States.
Commanding awe-inspiring visual technologies which help in staging beautiful and well-organized presentations, it is easy to get lost in the journey to space and multiple galaxies.
Certainly worth the hype!!!
With an up to date digital planetarium software and one of the best projection systems, they can create a realistic visual representation of the stars and planets and even mimic the planets’ surfaces.
Talk about a heaven-on-earth experience.
With its constantly updating features, you’re always in for a renewed experience.
It is a given that you discover something new always.
Address: 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, United States.
2.Sam Houston Planetarium, Huntsville, Tx, United States (Intimate & Homely Atmosphere)
You may have a shy personality and want a tour where you can easily blend in with the crowd and experience that homely feeling in such a public place; the atmosphere in this beautiful Planetarium can work that magic.
Always available to all star-loving enthusiasts, the Sam Houston Planetarium can make anyone fall in love with it at first glance.
It is common for various planetariums to have unique designs, often influenced by different purposes and environmental factors.
Although the building is no exception, its utterly see-through glass walls give a distinct edge.
Astronomers are also some of the nicest on the planet.
However, ensure to follow instructions to the letter as they can be very insistent on that.
Address: Farmington Building,1908 Avenue J, Huntsville, TX 77320, United States.
3.Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugarland, Sugarland, Tx, United States (Interactive Exhibits & Activities)
This is an incredible museum and science discovery center.
Located in Sugar Land, the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land is an excellent place for visitors of all ages.
It features interactive exhibits, loads of hands-on activities, informative displays, friendly staff, and fantastic stuff, from prehistoric collections to modern science and technology.
This Planetarium has two floors and multiple sections with interactive and hands-on exhibits where you can touch history- including a fragment from the Moon.
The recent and ancient history section has so much stuff to see up close and includes draws full of well-preserved examples of shells and fossils.
Great parking spaces, accessible unique walkways for people who are disabled and friendly workers who are good at doing their jobs make visits very smooth.
Ideally able to hold interactive and fun sessions simultaneously with adults and children, the Sugarland Planetarium can be considered a success.
Address: 13016 University Boulevard, Sugarland, TX 77479, United States.
Also see our article onBotanical Gardens in Texas.
Planetariums in Grand Prairie & Lubbock, Texas.
1.John Carl Pogue Planetarium, Grand Prairie, Tx, United States (Quality Education & Entertainment)
In all fairness, The John Carl Pogue planetarium is not the most elaborate in the State of Texas, but that is not to say it lacks the qualities to leave a lasting impression on anyone.
It’ll be wrong to think that.
Built initially for teaching students, the seating space oft can only contain many students, making it look like a lecture theater rather than a tourist center.
The Planetarium has a lot of people with a wide range of unique skills that vary, such as curriculum specialists, teaching strategists, Planetarium coordinators, etc., who work together to ensure overall quality in keeping the audience well-informed and educated.
If you want your knowledge of astronomy to go from zero to a hundred, then the JCP Planetarium is just the place for you.
Address: 2602 S. Belt Line Road, Grand Prairie, TX, United States.
2.Moody Planetarium at The Museum of Texas Tech University -Lubbock, Texas (Interactive Sessions & Exhibits)
If you ever need something out of the ordinary, a place to get immersed in the beauty of the stars and the extraterrestrial while having a good time with soothing countryside music, The Moody Planetarium is the perfect place to set the mood positively any day, anytime.
With a 74-seating capacity, including a two-seat section for people in a wheelchair, it focuses on making the audience as comfortable as possible throughout the shows.
Beautiful exhibits and architecture make it a wonderful place to make eternal memories.
From the bright and colorful displays of neon lights, which create an electrifying atmosphere, to its famed glitzy laser shows, everything about this spectacular place screams one thing.
You’re in for a fun ride!!!
Beyond its excitement, the Moody Planetarium is the ideal place that provides and maintains an even poise between education and entertainment.
Do arrive early at the Planetarium before the show starts, though.
The tickets are sold 30 minutes before the show.
Address: Lubbock, TX 79409, United States.
Also see our article onPicnic Spots in Texas.
Planetariums in San Antonio & Killeen, Texas.
1.Scobee Education Center Planetarium at San Antonio College – San Antonio, Texas (Advanced Digital Projection)
Immaculate, timeless, and of great value to society, The SEC Planetarium has had a significant impact in molding the academic lives of so many young children as a specific statistic reads that it has hosted over 2 million pupils during a time frame spanning about 62 years since it was open to the public in the year 1961.
This building most definitely deserves to be dubbed a national treasure.
Being fully completed and refurbished in 2014, the Scobee Education Center Planetarium is the toast of other Planetariums.
With a 100-seating capacity of individual recliner seats, the most advanced digital projection system, and aesthetic decor themes, it’s a tiny wonder how it has retained its quality over the years.
If you’re in San Antonio and you see purple neon lights lighting up the sky, it’s probably not lapis lazuli raining from heaven.
You’re looking at the monumental SEC Planetarium in all its greatness.
Address: 1819 N Main Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States.
2.Mayborn Science Theater at Central Texas College – Killeen, Texas (Beautiful & Ultra-Modern Facilities)
What immediately comes to mind when stepping inside the Mayborn Science Theater is the cliche “Those who live in glass houses” phrase.
The building is a work of pure artistry which combines simplicity and agility in its design.
First opened in the fall of 2003, thousands have since embarked on frequent pilgrimages to enjoy its beautiful, ultra-modern facilities.
It is truly a spectacular sight to behold.
From a 60-foot vault-shaped screen showing informative exhibitions about stars and other planets to realistic 3-D laser shows, this Planetarium is precisely the kind that you’d bring your family along to have a fantastic experience.
The Mayborn Science Theater Planetarium also has other fun packages like Google Hangouts, Gaming Facilities, Interactive Sessions with the audience, and music concerts.
Address: Building No. 152, Bell Tower Drive, Killeen, TX 76549, United States.
Also see our article onZiplining in Texas.
Planetariums in Edinburg & El Paso, Texas.
1.H-E-B Planetarium, Edinburg, Tx, United States (Extensive Renovation & Refurbishment)
If you are a space lover, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley HEB Planetarium is tailor-made for you.
The mural-themed designs on its dome give it a unique look that portrays it as a place full of history.
It has a brilliant collection of antiques dating back as far as the creation of the Soviet Union, which includes the first generation of Spitz visual projectors used to teach how to navigate by the stars, which made it a famous attraction site throughout the 1960s.
After years of extensive renovation and refurbishment, The HEB Planetarium is more than well-equipped to take the audience on amazing starry trips throughout the galaxy.
Housing two very efficient projector systems, the astronomers can confidently teach their audience, knowing very well that they have a proper backup should one of the projection systems experience technical issues.
Address: UTRGV, Edinburg, TX 76539, United States.
2.Gene Roddenberry Planetarium, El Paso, Tx, United States (Creative Space-Themed Decor)
Built primarily in 1969 as part of an alliance of the National Science Foundation, the Roddenberry Planetarium boasts of delivering the grandest of presentations about the marvels of space and everything in the entirety of the galaxy to over two million visitors.
Named after the famous WWII Pilot, Television and Movie writer, and creator of Star Trek, Gene Roddenberry, who was born in the El Paso region of Texas in a place now known as the “5 Points Area”, the Planetarium has a creative decor that seemingly brings space to earth, probably suggesting that it might have drawn inspiration from his creations.
A new DigiStar digital projector provides a forward-looking experience to the audience as it moves on from the trusty but old-school Spitz star projector, which it still used until 2009.
Address: 5411 Wren, El Paso, TX, United States, Texas.
Also see our article onRoad Trips in Texas.
Planetariums in Stephenville & San Angelo, Texas.
1. Science Building and Planetarium, Stephenville, Texas (Multipurpose Venue Functions)
The College of Science and Technology Planetarium is under the monumental copper dome of the Lamar Johanson Science Building on the reputable Tarleton State University, Stephenville campus.
Housing an array of impressive facilities, such as a hall with an 86-person seating capacity, which also doubles as a lecture theater, A top of line surround sound, and of course, the ever-impressive DigiStar projection system.
All in sync to create a phenomenal experience.
Apart from being a Planetarium, it also functions as a venue to host public awareness speeches, presentations, etc.
It also organizes available special digital exhibitions at specific periods throughout the year as a way of encouraging society to learn and have fun at the same time.
Address: 1525 W Vanderbilt Street, Stephenville, TX 76401, United States.
2.Angelo State University Planetarium, San Angelo, Tx, United States (Out-Of-This-World Journey)
Do you want an out-of-this-world journey through space and time that feels like you are in the area?
The Marston Exploration Theater can provide just that with a Sci-Dome HD Projector, which can conjure images of more than 500 million stars and celestial bodies.
Its impressive and ultra-modern facilities are the prized jewels of the Planetarium. Lectures about Astronomy, Physical Science, and Geology are often taught in its grand classrooms periodically.
Every year, an estimate of about 9,700 students of all age brackets visit the Planetarium for educational purposes.
A fantastic place, certainly loved by kids in San Angelo.
Address: 2333 Vanderventer Ave, San Angelo, TX 76904, United States.
Also see our article onSmall Towns in Texas.
Planetariums in Ponder & Midland, Texas.
1.Rafes Urban Astronomy Center, Ponder, Tx, United States (Famous For Large Domes)
Famous for its large domes, which both hold impressive refractive telescopes, the RUAC is among the best sites to explore the night sky in its full beauty.
The Rafes Urban Astronomy Center honors Richard Rafes, the former Vice Chairman of Administrative Affairs at the University of Texas, and his wife, Tommye, who donated the land on which it was built.
Some of its facilities include telescoping huts, four powerful Celestron C8 telescopes, and two classrooms teaching astronomy.
With an estimated 3000 astronomy students and 1000 visitors yearly, the RUAC doesn’t just feature as a teaching institution alone.
It is also perfect for Family Outings, parties, and star gazing.
However, a lonely visit to the Planetarium wouldn’t hurt.
To many, loneliness comes with a feeling that we are little creatures in this whole universe, and that follows the basic concepts of astrology.
Address: 2350 Tom Cole Road, Ponder, TX 76259, United States.
2.Clark Planetarium at The Midland College – Midland, Texas (Advanced Technology Views)
Unlike most other Planetariums in this article, the Midland Planetarium is relatively tiny.
But for what it lacks in capacity, it more than makes up for it in quality of service.
With updated technology to help visitors achieve total views of a space they choose, the Planetarium is a go-to for astrology lovers.
The audience is always in a bright mood as they know they will always get total value for their money despite it being very affordable.
Also, the good-natured astronomers on site are always ready to make learning fun and easy. They have an outstanding reputation for being kind, well-informed, and enthusiastic about what they do.
The area also has many excellent restaurants, and the locals are fun.
Address: 1800 W Indiana Ave, Midland, TX 79701, United States.
Also see our article onCabin Rentals in Texas.
Planetariums in Damon & Fort Worth, Texas.
1.George Observatory (Highly Modified Telescopes)
If you have ever desired a place to let your imagination roam free while observing the beauty of the stars, then the place to be is the George Observatory.
Situated within the beautiful plains of the Brazos Bend State Park, the George Observatory is also a Satellite facility.
That automatically translates into it being one of the best telescoping sites.
One of the most exciting things it has to offer is the plethora of space phenomena that one can get to experience within the Observatory, thanks to the strength of its highly modified telescopes.
The George Observatory provides a unique learning experience for students as the hosts ensure to take them on a journey through space and time, leaving them in the wake of a fascinating tour of the universe.
It also has a meteorite as one of its exhibits.
How cool is that?
Address: 21901 FM 762 Needville, TX 77461, United States.
2.Noble Planetarium at The Fort Worth Museum Of Science And History (Small Digital Projector)
If you’ve already had a fantastic experience touring the grand Fort Worth museum, a quick jaunt to its Planetarium will further heighten the excitement.
It has a seating capacity for 80 people and a much smaller than usual digital projector which offers a prominent view of the celestial bodies and everything under the night sky with the latest discoveries in space. Impressive!!!
With a Space gallery with quite an impressive collection of artifacts from space, such as a tiny fragment of the Apollo 11 spacecraft, the first spacesuits, rocks from the Moon, and so much more!!!
A highly interactive group of hosts always ensure that you are well-filled in on everything you want to know.
Address: 1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107, United States.
Also see our article onEscape Rooms in Texas.
Planetariums in Denton & San Marcos, Texas.
1.Planetarium At the University of North Texas -Denton, Texas (Bright & Colorful Displays)
Located in the Environmental Science Building on the University of North Texas campus, the UNT Planetarium takes its rightful place as being one the best in Texas, the reasons being reasonable.
Famed for its bright and colorful visual displays during presentations, a 100-person seat capacity, a flawless 40-foot dome theater designed to complement the ultra-modern DigiStar projection system, and a 360-degree full dome video, the audience is sure to be treated to eye-catching views of the night sky.
A planetarium becomes more enjoyable when experts are willing to give educative guides and summaries about events to the audience, which this Planetarium has.
Over the years, it has maintained a delicate balance between the amusem*nt of the audience and educating them.
It is an exciting place to be.
Address: Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building, Denton, TX 76201, United States.
2.Planetarium At Texas State University – San Marcos, Texas (Free Star Gazing Nights)
The Texas State Observatory is on the campus of Texas State University.
Right from its construction days, this delicately designed Science building has been a fantastic sight to behold, and like a diamond in a ring, it complements the environment.
The Planetarium is open to the public on Wednesday nights from 7-9 pm for free star gazing, as long as the weather is just right and the sky is clear.
It is a non-profit organization run by the students of Texas State University primarily and supported by the commitment of selfless volunteers who intend to keep the Planetarium.
The Observatory houses a 16-inch telescope capable of making planets and galaxies visible from both near and far.
Apart from the educational part of the Planetarium, it is soothing to view the night sky, and having your loved ones around will be great.
Address: 804 Vista Street, San Marcos, TX 78666, United States.
Also see our article onGhost Towns in Texas.
Planetariums in Commerce & Tyler, Texas.
1.Planetarium at Texas A&M University, Commerce – Commerce, Texas (Extensive Enlightening Shows)
The Planetarium offers an extensive range of enlightening shows that will illuminate the universe and leave you mesmerized by knowledge of astronomy you never knew existed.
Learning about astrology will keep students of all ages miles ahead of their counterparts.
As fun, as it is to be in a place like the A&M planetarium, the workers can be a little strict sometimes.
The Planetarium’s maximum seating capacity is 81 visitors, so late seating is highly discouraged.
You should change plans if you love to munch on for holding the show and enjoying the fun attached.
However, do not ever try to sneak a snack in.
The Planetarium has a strict rule against eating inside, and the staff is alert to catch anyone breaking the law.
In short, you will draw the attention of a scowling host.
Address: 2201 W. Neal St, Commerce, TX 75428.
2. The Earth and Space Science Center (Tranquil & Unique Atmosphere)
Located at the campus of Tyler Junior College, this Planetarium is one of the largest Planetariums in Texas, and it upholds its early days’ aim to be one of the top-ranking planetariums in Texas.
It houses the first ever 40′ Spitz nano-seamed domed theater in East Texas, among the list of unique objects it is home to.
The state-of-the-art Planetarium has several exciting features that stand head and shoulders above the rest.
Big Plasma Screen displays, Immersive, full-dome video experience, Space flights that seem to happen in real-time, beautiful meeting spaces that host lectures, public events, and Science classes, it simply has it all.
The atmosphere of the Planetarium and the interior decorations are tranquil, plain, and unique, all soothing to visitors’ souls.
Address: 1411 E. Lake Street, Tyler Junior College, TX 75701, United States.
Also see our article onFlower Shops in Texas.
Planetariums in Austin & Clute, Texas.
1.Planetarium At The University Of Texas At Austin -Austin, Texas (Beautiful Architectural Designs)
This planetarium is also another incredible planetarium on our exclusive list of Planetariums.
It is a beautiful place to visit, with its unique architectural designs never failing to dazzle.
Over the years, it has become a haven for visitors, especially if they’re family, to create special memories.
From the massive screens, high-quality exhibitions, and interactive workers, to enhanced coordination between visitors, the Planetarium is a spot for a good time and educative reasoning.
As an institute of ground-breaking research and discovery, the Austin Planetarium benefits from heavy investment in its modern facilities, making it a key player in science’s hottest research areas.
The center is convincing to visit more than once or invite your friends if you combine all these with its inspiring yet simple architecture.
Address: Fort Davis, TX 79734, United States.
2.Basf Planetarium, Clute, Tx, United States (Innovation & Creativity Focus)
Easily one of the most captivating, The BASF Planetarium focuses on innovation and creativity.
It offers a star show every Tuesday and on the fourth Friday of each month.
Visitors can also view images from the Hubble telescope in the lobby through View-Space.
The Planetarium also caters adequately to children and adults by treating them specially and respectfully.
This center’s relaxing indoor atmosphere enables a higher level of the mind’s saturation of a vast knowledge of astronomy.
To many individuals, the paintings and decor are the first things they observe.
The color combination and turnout are beautiful sights to behold in the Planetarium as it readily gives a platform to project one’s imagination into outer space.
Remember, Basf Planetarium is somewhere you should try in Texas, even if you have been to a planetarium before.
Address: 400 College Boulevard, Clute, TX 77531, United States.
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the bestHaunted Houses, Movie Theaters, and State Parks in Texas.
Looking beyond Texas? Check out our article on the best Planetariums in New York and Florida.
