Is it written in the stars? A date to a planetarium could help you find out. We’re all about finding interesting and unusual date plans for you, and we love the idea of exploring the universe together. This guide will tell you our tips on what to expect at the planetarium, what to bring, and how to make the most of the evening. Let’s get into it!
What’s a planetarium?
You may have visited a planetarium before on a school field trip—but don’t worry, we can confirm that post-3pm, this is a beautiful date location. No stray crisp packets or whistles in sight.
If you’ve not visited a planetarium before, it’s usually a dome-shaped theater using fun technology to project the cosmos on the inside of the ceiling. Simulating the night sky and its celestial wonders makes for an immersive indoor stargazing experience, and you’re guaranteed to see more of the universe than you can with a telescope.
If you’re looking for your local planetarium, they can often be found attached to museums, observatories, or colleges. You might also find private planetariums open to the public with a quick online search. Although they’re a destination for people of all ages, the evening shows can take you on a romantic interstellar journey with your date.
What to expect on a planetarium date
Planetariums usually work like a theater, with live and pre-recorded shows playing at set times. Shows can cover topics like the history of astronomy, the solar system, and the latest discoveries in space exploration.
You can usually check your chosen planetarium’s schedule online and buy tickets for the most intriguing show. Shows might be narrated by famous voices, backed by beautiful classical music, or include lasers and a rock-pop twist.
Why is a planetarium romantic for couples?
The first thing to expect from your planetarium date is darkness. Total darkness. It's not like seeing a movie with lights in front of and behind you. In fact, there are no lights at all—just beautiful stars. Something about the vastness of space and how tiny it makes us feel gives us seriously romantic, seize-the-date vibes. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to hold hands.
Whichever show you choose for your planetarium date, you’ll both feel inspired by the beauty of the universe and hopefully learn something, too—our favorite combination for a great evening.
How much does a date to a planetarium cost?
The cost of a planetarium date will vary depending on the venue and day you choose. Most planetariums have ticket prices ranging from $5-$10 per person, but some may be more or less expensive depending on their event schedule.
Some planetariums have gift shops or merch stalls, with the usual things available to buy—t-shirts, posters, mugs, and so on. If you’re a sucker for cute knick-knacks or unique workout shirts, this could increase the date’s impact on your wallet.
Other things to do for couples at the planetarium
If you visit a planetarium and observatory, they may offer you the chance to try their telescope before or after the show (weather permitting—clouds are not your friend). Trying outdoor stargazing is a cool way to extend your date and learn more about using a telescope to see planets, stars, and celestial objects. Plus, you can tap into the expertise of the planetarium staff and might find yourself with a new hobby.
If your planetarium is attached to a museum, you can often explore the exhibits before or after the show. Your entry may or may not be included with your show ticket, so make sure to read the fine print.
As well as grabbing food or drinks after, you could turn your post-show dinner into a picnic. As we know, planetariums are often attached to observatories, which are usually found in rural areas or parkland. Bring a cooler full of snacks, a flask of something hot to drink, and lots of warm clothes and blankets.
Look up at the stars together and see if you can put your new knowledge of the universe into practice. Consider checking for important celestial events, like meteor showers or highly visible planets, when planning your date. Then, your date at the planetarium could turn into an amazing evening of real stargazing.
What to bring on a planetarium date
You won’t need much for this date—we’d just recommend comfortable clothes, so you and your date can sit back, relax in the planetarium theater, andget fully immersed in the show.
If you also hope to enjoy an astronomy night or some outdoor stargazing to complement your indoor stargazing, you'll want to pack some snacks and blankets for the outside part.
Bring indoor stargazing home
Love the idea of a romantic journey through the cosmos but don’t have a planetarium near you? We have a solution. Ranging from glass-lensed, scientifically accurate HD projectors to fun galactic light show machines, there’s a star projector for pretty much all date nights and budgets.
When you’ve found the projector for you, simply close the curtains and make the room as dark as possible. We recommend grabbing some pillows and blankets to set up a cozy spot in the middle of the room and some snacks to keep you going. Then, simply set off the projector and enjoy your private planetarium date!
If you’re looking for a date night experience that will be educational and romantic (and isn’t that always the goal?), we think a planetarium might be the one. We hope this guide has given you all the details to embrace romance, have fun with your partner, and learn something new. No field trip necessary. Enjoy!
