Hayden Planetarium Tours and Tickets

Part of the American Museum of Natural History, the Hayden Planetarium is known for its immersive shows projected onto a giant dome. Journey through the cosmos through the big screen and learn about astronomy-related topics like black holes or the Big Bang. Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson is the planetarium’s director.

Yes. Reserve your general admission ticket, which includes access to the Rose Center for Earth and Space, and choose whether to add a planetarium show as a separately ticketed exhibition. Make a combination purchase online using the American Museum of Natural History website. (New Yorkers are eligible for “pay-what-you-wish” admission.)

Yes. Kids and teens typically enjoy the Rose Center for Earth and Space, and family-friendly planetarium shows are designed to engage young museum visitors. Keep in mind that toddlers and babies might get fussy or overwhelmed by the vivid projections during a planetarium show.

Yes. Even if you don’t have much knowledge of astronomy, the planetarium offers exhibits on space and the solar system that are accessible to everyone—not just experts. The shows cover topics like the origins of our universe, the life cycle of stars, and more.

That depends. Weekends draw the biggest crowds at the American Museum of Natural History, so for a mellower experience, aim for a weekday visit. Films typically last just under 30 minutes and run at half-hour intervals throughout the day. The planetarium also hosts debates, lectures, and other public events.

No, there is no free parking at the Hayden Planetarium. Expect to pay upwards of US$50 for all-day parking at the nearby garage on 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. The American Museum of Natural History is easily reached by public transportation, however.