Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center

Faraway galaxies feel just a little closer at the Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center. Astronomy enthusiasts of all ages can catch shows in the Full-Dome Theater, explore exhibits, and shop out-of-this-world gifts in the science store.

Located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus, Fleischmann Planetarium opened in 1963. It was the first planetarium in the U.S. to show 360-degree projected movies, and it’s still the only planetarium in the world built in the shape of a hyperbolic paraboloid. Visitors can still marvel at the architecture and experience the Full-Dome Theater today, which screens a wide variety of shows. Travel to Mars, discover life beyond Earth, and even explore black holes. On “First Fridays” of each month, Fleischmann Planetarium features live music and stargazing opportunities, too.

In addition to its fascinating, large-format films and star shows, visitors to Fleischmann Planetarium will find interactive exhibits that include enormous, rotating Earth and moon globes, dozens of meteorites, an intriguing black hole demonstrator, and more. The science store is also full of science and solar system-related offerings—and glow-in-the-dark T-shirts!—for all ages.

Getting to Fleischmann Planetarium in Reno

Fleischmann Planetarium has designated visitor parking spots on the third floor of the university’s West Stadium Parking Complex (across from the planetarium entrance). You can pick up your free parking permit for these spots from the planetarium’s front desk. If the designated spots are taken, visitors can park on the top level of the West Stadium Parking Complex and purchase a daily permit (required Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Parking is free on weekends.