As a mom, I’m always on the hunt for unique and educational activities that won’t break the bank. We’ve done the splash pads, the parks, and the indoor play spaces. But what about when we want to escape the desert heat and explore something truly out of this world? That’s how we, along with our homeschool co-op Wild Desert Kids, discovered the planetarium at CSN, and let me tell you, it’s a hidden gem worth visiting.
My son, like most, are completely fascinated by the stars and the moon. They ask a million questions about planets, rockets, and if they can have a pet alien. While I’m great at answering “Why is the sky blue?” I’m not exactly an astrophysicist.
So, when I heard about the planetarium at CSN, I knew our co-op had to check it out (check out everything you need to know about homeschooling here). It’s an immersive experience that’s both educational and entertaining for the whole family. It’s Southern Nevada’s only public planetarium, and it’s a great place for a field trip or family outing.
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Everything You Need To Know About The Planetarium at CSN
The planetarium at CSN offers an educational and engaging experience that takes complex scientific concepts and presents them in a way that’s accessible and exciting for kids. The 66-seat theater is intimate, and the high-definition projection system provides an immersive experience.
Location
College of Southern Nevada’s Cheyenne Campus
3200 E. Cheyenne Ave
North Las Vegas, NV 89030
Parking
Parking is free and ample. There are two lots right next to the Planetarium building that you can use, however, it is confusing when you get there if you’ve never been there before, so follow the map below!
Look for a brick wall with the letter “O” on the side.
Hours
The Planetarium is open to the public on Friday and Saturday evenings. Showtimes vary, so it’s best to check their official website for the current schedule before you go.
You can make reservations by calling 702-651-4505 or through our online reservation system.
Field Trips
If you want to book a private field trip experience, you can make reservations by calling 702-651-4505. Field Trips are offered on weekdays for private shows at 9:30 and 11 a.m..
Cost
- General admission: $6.00
- Seniors (55+), Children Ages 12 and Under, CSN Students: $4.00
- Children under three are free
Field Trips
- $2/person with a $50 minimum and $100 maximum
Cash and checks are the only accepted forms of payment.
Pros & Cons of Visiting
Pros:
- Educational and Engaging: The shows are carefully crafted to be both educational and entertaining. My children left with a newfound appreciation for the universe and a bunch of new facts to share.
- Affordability: The admission prices for the planetarium are incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for a budget-friendly day.
- Intimate Setting: Unlike larger attractions, the small size makes for a more personal and comfortable experience. It’s not overwhelming for little ones, and it feels like a private show just for your group.
- Family-Friendly Shows: They offer a variety of shows throughout the year, with a number of them specifically geared towards younger audiences.
- The Gift Shop: The little gift shop had some great souvenirs and STEM-related toys, from plush planets to telescopes. It’s a great place to pick up a little something to remember your space adventure.
Cons:
- Limited Hours: The planetarium is only open to the public on weekends, so you’ll need to plan your visit accordingly.
- Cash Only: You must pay with cash or check, which can be inconvenient for some families. You can pay with card at The Astronomy Gift Shop.
- Ages: While we recommend for ages 2.5+, it’s not for every kid under 4. There is a tour beforehand that is very informational and younger kids can get fidgety.
Our Experience
When we arrived, the first thing I noticed was the small, intimate setting. It’s not a giant, bustling attraction, which was perfect for our group. The staff, which was only a couple of people, were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable.
They made us feel welcome and were happy to answer my kids’ eager questions. We ended up doing a little tour first as our reservation times were mixed up which the adults really enjoyed and then headed into the theater, where we settled into our seats under the impressive 30-foot dome.
The show we chose was perfect for little ones – we did the Sesame Street one! The immersive, high-definition projection system completely surrounded us, making it feel like we were floating through space.
Tips for Your Visit
- Check the Show Schedule: Visit the official planetarium at CSN website before you go to see what shows are playing and at what times.
- Arrive Early: The theater is small, so arriving early ensures you get a seat.
- Choose an Age-Appropriate Show: The website lists the target audience for each show. Be sure to pick one that is a good fit for your child’s age.
Our trip to the planetarium at CSN was a huge success. It was a unique and memorable experience that ignited my children’s curiosity about the universe.
It’s a wonderful resource right here in our community that I can’t wait to visit again. If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and affordable activity to do with your family, I highly recommend looking to the stars!