With spring break coming up, you’re probably looking for ways to keep the kiddos entertained while they are out of school. If a quick day trip is in the plans, consider packing up the car and heading to a nearby planetarium. Here’s where you can immerse yourself in the cosmos around the DMV.
The David M. Brown Planetarium
For over 50 years, the Arlington planetarium has been teaching Arlington students and the surrounding communities about space. During the school year, the venue is only open to the public two weekends a month. Each month features a different theme, lecturers, and activities. 1426 N. Quincy St., Arlington, $5 for adults, $3 for children under 12 and seniors
National Air and Space Museum
Don’t miss the Air and Space Museum’s planetarium show when you head into the District. The planetarium hosts a variety of shows each day, including The Sky Tonight; Worlds beyond Earth; Dark Universe; and One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. Timed-entry tickets are currently only available on site. Sixth St. & Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC, free
Earth and Space Science Lab
Enjoy a night under the stars at the Ausherman Planetarium. During the school year, the planetarium holds shows on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. Your ticket also includes entry into the current exhibits and a look through the Natelli Observatory, weather permitting. Tickets are only available online. 210 Madison St., Frederick, Maryland, $6
Science Museum of Virginia
Take a trip to Richmond to view the stars on the largest screen in Virginia. The Dome projects all aspects of the cosmos and the corners of Earth you don’t normally see. The 45-minute shows explore the moon, cosmos, and the depths of the ocean. 2500 W. Broad St., Richmond, $22 for adults, $19 for children 6–12 and seniors 60+, $15 for children 3-5
The Maryland Science Center
NoVA is just over an hour’s drive to the Davis Planetarium in Baltimore. The star theater engulfs you in views of thousands of stars, planets, and other stellar phenomena. Shows that are currently screening include Cruise the Cosmos, Unveiling the Invisible Universe, and Colors of the Solar System. While you’re at the museum, spark curiosity in your little ones by visiting the other STEM exhibits. 601 Light St., Baltimore, $26.95–$31.95 for adults, $20.95–$25.95 for children 3–12, $25.95–$30.95 for seniors 62 and older, free admission for members
Franklin Park Arts Center
Throughout the year, this Purcellville arts center sets up an inflatable dome so you can immerse yourself in outer space. The next show, on March 28, will showcase the constellations visible during the spring, along with other objects and phenomena you’ll see in the sky. 36441 Blueridge View Ln., Purcellville, $10
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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