Chabot Space & Science Center
If you’re the type of person who loves to learn and look at the night sky or you’re simply looking for an interesting, engaging and educational way to spend an afternoon or evening, then make sure to visit the Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland. Founded as an observatory in 1883, the facility has evolved over time into one of the best places for informal learning in the country. Located in the redwoods above Oakland, the Center has three different telescopes and is the largest public telescope facility in the United States.
More than 164,000 visitors visit this unique facility each year to learn about the universe, view fun and interesting shows in the Planetarium and interact with and learn from the hands-on exhibits throughout the facility. In addition to cool and innovative exhibits, visitors can also enjoy:
- The MegaDome Theater
Regarded as the Bay Area’s biggest and best IMAX movie experience, this theater boasts a dome screen that is 60 feet high. Actually, that’s a bit misleading, as the screen is so big that it is above you, on both sides of you and even behind you! - The Challenger Learning Center
This remarkable exhibit allows you and your “crew” to fly a manned space mission, where you must exercise critical thinking, creative problem solving and communication skills to safely guide your vessel to your destination and safely back again. - Beyond Blastoff
Ever wondered what it’s like to be on the Space Station? Here’s your chance to see and experience the unique challenges of living and working in a zero-gravity environment day after day. - Touch the Sun
Considering that it’s around 93 million miles away, this exhibit allows visitors to enjoy near-real-time interactive UV animations and learn about the engine of all life on this planet. - One Giant Leap: A Moon Odyssey
After looking at the 3.3 billion-year-old rock brought back from the surface of the moon, you can try your hand at landing one of the spacecraft that made that trip possible. You’ll be able to sit at the controls of a real Mercury space capsule and experience what it was like to be a Mercury astronaut. - Many other Cool, Fun, Interesting and Engaging Exhibits
If the Chabot Space & Science Center sounds like your kind of place, the head to 10000 Skyline Blvd. and get ready to have fun, learn a ton and be entertained in equal measure! The Center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, closed on Monday and Tuesday. If the weather allows on Fri. and Sat. nights, guests can view the stars at the Observatory. Admission to the Center is $15.95 for adults, $11.95 for kids aged 3 to 12 and special prices for seniors and students. If you’re planning to visit the Center on weekends, holidays or during one of the many special events held throughout the year, the Center strongly recommends purchasing tickets in advance.