Hayden Planetarium

The Basics

From the outside, the Hayden Planetarium—a sphere measuring 87 feet (26.5 meters) in diameter—appears to float inside a six-story-tall glass cube. Inside, video programming, under the direction of renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, offers glimpses of far-off galaxies, planets, and stars, all in ultra-sharp resolution. Visitors can witness the birth of the universe in the Big Bang Theater; walk the Heilbrunn Cosmic Pathway, which illustrates the history of the universe from the Big Bang to present day; and check outDark Universe, the planetarium’s popular space show that charts the discoveries that have led humankind to greater knowledge about the universe. (It’s narrated by Mr. deGrasse Tyson himself.)

Things to Know Before You Go

• All theaters in the American Museum of Natural History, including the Hayden Planetarium, include wheelchair locations and companion seats.

• The museum has plenty of food and drink options, including the Museum Food Court, the Café on One, and the Café on Four.

• Although the planetarium is safe for kids of all ages, those under 5 may not understand some of the sophisticated commentary.

• Avoid waiting in long lines by purchasing tickets in advance.

How to Get There

The planetarium is located in the Rose Center for Earth and Space in the American Museum of Natural History at Central Park West and 79th Street in New York City. The easiest way to get there is by subway; the B and C lines stop at 81st Street.

When to Get There

The Hayden Planetarium is open from 10am to 5:45pm daily; shows run every half hour from 10:30am to 4:30pm.

More Sights to See at the Museum of Natural History

The Hayden Planetarium is part of the Museum of Natural History, a world-class museum where it’s easy to while away a few hours. Visitors can see one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils, stand beneath a 94-foot-long (28.6-meter-long) model of a blue whale in the Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life, and see live butterflies in action inside the Butterfly Conservatory.

Ways to explore

From the outside, the Hayden Planetarium—a sphere measuring 87 feet (26.5 meters) in diameter—appears to float inside a glass cube. Inside, in the Space Theater, the Hayden Planetarium Space Show uses data gleaned during space missions to offer visitors glimpses of far-off galaxies, planets, and stars in ultra-sharp resolution. Afterward, witness the birth of the universe in the Big Bang Theater, then walk the Heilbrunn Cosmic Pathway, which leads you through the 13-billion-plus-year history of the universe.

Accessibility

The Hayden Planetarium is wheelchair accessible, and assisted listening devices are available.

Age limits

There are no age limits, but young children may find the narration difficult to understand.

What to pack

Small bag, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, layers (temperatures vary)

Not allowed

Selfie sticks or tripods in the museum; photography in the Hayden Planetarium Space Theater

Amenities

Restrooms, dining options, storage lockers

Address

The Hayden Planetarium is located in the Rose Center for Earth and Space in the American Museum of Natural History at Central Park West and 79th Street.

Driving

While you could drive to the American Museum of Natural History, navigating NYC street traffic can be stressful, and parking rates can blow your budget. It’s far better to hail a cab or book a rideshare service.

Public transportation

Take the B or C line to the 81st Street–Museum of Natural History station, which exits directly at the museum, or bus route M7, M10, M11, or M79-SBS, which all stop nearby.

Best times to visit

The planetarium is typically quietest in the morning, soon after opening.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends.

Best months to visit

Shoulder seasons: March to May and September to November

Special events

From astrophysicist-led guided tours to lectures and debates, the Hayden Planetarium hosts events throughout the year. Check the online calendar for details.