Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Brisbane - gray and white dome building
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Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium Brisbane

4.5
·477 reviews·Mount Coot-tha, Australia

Explore the cosmos at Brisbane's premier planetarium, offering stunning dome shows, fascinating exhibits, and a gateway to the universe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, Brisbane - gray and white dome building

Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium Brisbane

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the cosmos at Brisbane's premier planetarium, offering stunning dome shows, fascinating exhibits, and a gateway to the universe.

4.5
(477 reviews)

"An excellent facility that combines education and entertainment, receiving unanimous praise from locals and tourists alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Shows in Advance

Popular shows fill up fast! Secure your spot online to avoid missing out on your preferred showtime.

🚀 Arrive Early for Seats

Get to your show a bit early to snag the best seats for optimal viewing and audio experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cosmic Skydome Shows

Cosmic Skydome Shows

Cosmic Skydome Auditorium

Immerse yourself in stunning visuals of the universe projected onto a full dome. Experience the cosmos like never before!

Display Zone

Display Zone

Exhibition Hall

Explore fascinating exhibits on astronomy, space technology, and the history of space exploration. Educational and engaging for all ages.

Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon

Cosmic Skydome Auditorium

A unique fusion of iconic music and breathtaking space visuals. An unforgettable, psychedelic journey through the solar system.

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Cosmic Adventure

Shows at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium are popular, especially during school holidays. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred showtime and avoid disappointment. Check the official website for the latest show schedules and pricing.

Timing Your Visit

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, particularly if you're bringing children. Weekends and school holidays can get busy. Arrive a little early for your show to get good seats, as some visitors have noted the audio can be better from certain spots.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Evening shows
Why
Experience the night sky
Crowd
Medium
When
School holidays
Why
Special family programs
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things to do in Brisbane ☺️🧡 #australia #brisbane #thingstodo #lonepinekoalasanctuary #queensland #fyp
@esterrue_07
46.8K likes • 1.5M views

🎟️ Book Shows in Advance

Popular shows fill up fast! Secure your spot online to avoid missing out on your preferred showtime. Instagram

🚀 Arrive Early for Seats

Get to your show a bit early to snag the best seats for optimal viewing and audio experience. Reddit

The Sir Thomas Planetarium 🪐 #brisbanethingstodo #brisbane #planetarium
rubynightt_
0 likes • 936 views
Have an out-of-this-world experience at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium! 🪐 Head to Mt Coot-tha for a fun family day out and enjoy a show in the Cosmic Skydome or tour the Display Zone to learn all about the universe. 🌟 Search ‘Planetarium’ at the link in our bio to learn more or book a show.  #Brisbane #ViewsOfBrisbane #ThingsToDoInBrisbane
brisbanecitycouncil
495 likes • 28.8K views

🌌 Explore the Display Zone

Don't miss the free exhibition hall with fascinating space artifacts and information. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Great for families! Many shows are designed to be educational and engaging for children. Instagram

The boys have been learning about space at daycare so off for a family trip to the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. Did you know the Planetarium is free? Perfect adventure to book in with the kids this school holidays. Don’t forget to check out the Botanic Gardens while you’re there. #freeadventure #freekidsadventure #space #learning
fentonfive
7 likes • 383 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Shows in Advance

Popular shows fill up fast! Secure your spot online to avoid missing out on your preferred showtime. Instagram

🚀 Arrive Early for Seats

Get to your show a bit early to snag the best seats for optimal viewing and audio experience. Reddit

🌌 Explore the Display Zone

Don't miss the free exhibition hall with fascinating space artifacts and information. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Great for families! Many shows are designed to be educational and engaging for children. Instagram

📍 Location, Location, Location

Nestled within the beautiful Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, making it a perfect addition to a day out. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(477 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium for its immersive Cosmic Skydome shows and engaging Display Zone, making it a highly recommended educational and entertaining attraction for families and space enthusiasts. While some shows receive mixed reviews for content, the overall experience is considered a delightful blend of learning and wonder, enhanced by its beautiful location.

"We are back here again for my daugther assignment regarding solar system.
They have few shows going on and we love their Perfect little planet show."

Boon Hoe Chew

"The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is renowned for its high-quality star projector and projection system, offering realistic displays of the night sky and astronomical phenomena.
The planetarium houses an astronomy exhibition hall, showcasing the history, instruments, and technology of astronomy, attracting many astronomy enthusiasts and students.
The planetarium regularly hosts various astronomy educational activities, including lectures, workshops, and stargazing events.
It is suitable for families and student groups, especially those with a keen interest in astronomy.
The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is considered an excellent facility that combines education and entertainment, receiving unanimous praise from locals and tourists alike. If you are interested in astronomy or looking to take your children on an educational trip, this is a highly recommended place to visit.

I think It's one of Brisbane's must-see attractions~"

nicole N

"Went on a weekday with my young family and watched the Astronaut show. It ran for about 25 minutes. The show wasn't that great tbh. It was a bit boring and felt like the content was all over the place. Would not recommend the Astronaut show. Maybe the other shows are better."

Gangani Gamalath

What People Like

Immersive dome shows
Educational exhibits
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Some show content
Audio quality in dome

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The planetarium is located within the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby, though it can be challenging during peak times.Reddit Public transport options include bus routes that service the Mt Coot-tha area. Check TransLink for the most up-to-date bus schedules.

Yes, there is parking available near the planetarium and the Botanic Gardens. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends and during events, so arriving early is advised. Reddit

Absolutely! The planetarium is situated within the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, making it easy to combine your visit with a stroll through the gardens. Instagram

The planetarium's opening hours can vary depending on the day and any special events. It's best to check the official Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium website for the most current opening hours and show schedules.

Yes, several bus routes service the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens area, providing access to the planetarium. You can plan your journey using the TransLink website or app.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Display Zone is generally free. However, there is a cost for shows in the Cosmic Skydome. Prices can vary, so check the official website for current brisbane planetarium prices and brisbane planetarium tickets. Instagram

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your brisbane planetarium tickets in advance, especially for popular shows or during peak times like school holidays. You can usually book brisbane planetarium bookings online through their website. Instagram

Ticket prices for shows at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium vary. Adults and children typically have different pricing tiers. Refer to the official website for the most accurate brisbane planetarium cost information. Reddit

Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or families. It's always a good idea to check the planetarium's website or inquire when booking for any applicable discounts on brisbane planetarium tickets.

While it might be possible to purchase tickets on the day, it's not guaranteed, especially for popular shows. Booking in advance is the safest way to ensure you get to see the brisbane planetarium show you want. Instagram

🎫 ⭐ Onsite Experience

The planetarium offers a variety of shows in its Cosmic Skydome, ranging from educational programs about the solar system and space exploration to immersive experiences like Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon. Check the brisbane planetarium show times for current offerings. InstagramReddit

Most shows at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium are around 25-30 minutes long, which is ideal for keeping attention spans engaged, especially for younger visitors. Reddit

Yes, the planetarium is very family-friendly. Many shows are designed with children in mind, offering educational and entertaining content. Some shows, like the Pink Floyd experience, may have age recommendations. InstagramReddit

The Display Zone features a range of astronomy exhibits, including models of planets, information on space missions, and historical astronomical instruments. It's a great place to learn more about the universe. Instagram

While the planetarium focuses on simulated sky views, there is an observatory component. The 'Saturday Night Live' shows often include a walk-through of the current night sky as seen from Earth. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in the Display Zone, but flash photography is usually discouraged to protect the exhibits. Inside the Cosmic Skydome during shows, photography and videography are typically not allowed to avoid disturbing other viewers and the projection. Always check for signage or ask staff.

The exterior of the planetarium building, set against the greenery of the Botanic Gardens, makes for a great photo opportunity. The entrance area and the surrounding gardens also offer scenic backdrops. Reddit

While there aren't specific 'photo booths' related to space, the overall atmosphere and the unique architecture of the planetarium can inspire creative shots. Capturing the dome from the outside is a popular choice. Instagram

A standard digital camera or smartphone is perfectly adequate for capturing the exterior and exhibits. For the shows, no recording is allowed. If you're interested in astrophotography, consider visiting a dedicated stargazing event outside the city.

No, filming or recording during the shows in the Cosmic Skydome is strictly prohibited to ensure an optimal experience for all attendees and to protect the content.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is a fantastic outing for families. Many shows, like 'Perfect Little Planet' or 'Astronaut,' are specifically designed to be educational and entertaining for children, keeping their attention with engaging visuals and clear explanations.InstagramReddit The Display Zone offers free interactive exhibits that kids can explore, making learning about space fun and accessible.

Pro-tip: Book your show tickets well in advance, especially during school holidays, as they can sell out quickly.Instagram Arriving a little early for your show can help secure better seating for the whole family. Consider combining your visit with a picnic or a walk through the adjacent Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens for a full day of family adventure.

🚀 Space Enthusiasts & Learners

For those with a deep passion for astronomy, the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium offers a rich learning experience. The Cosmic Skydome provides incredibly realistic simulations of the night sky, allowing you to witness celestial events and explore distant galaxies.Instagram The Display Zone delves into the history of astronomy and the technology behind space exploration, appealing to a curious mind.

Don't miss out on special events like the 'Saturday Night Live' shows, which often include a guided tour of the current night sky, offering a chance to see what's visible from Brisbane.Reddit Redditors have shared insights into specific shows, recommending those that utilize the full dome for the most immersive experience.Reddit

🎶 Music & Art Lovers

If you appreciate a unique blend of music and visual art, the Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon experience at the planetarium is a must-see.Reddit+1 This show synchronizes the iconic album with stunning, psychedelic visuals of space, planets, and nebulae, creating an out-of-this-world sensory journey. It's a testament to how art and science can converge to create something truly memorable.

While this show is particularly popular, the planetarium's ability to project captivating visuals onto the dome can transform any viewing into an artistic experience. It's a chance to see familiar music in a completely new, cosmic context.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cosmic Skydome Experience

The heart of the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium is its Cosmic Skydome. This immersive auditorium features a state-of-the-art projection system that blankets the audience in a breathtaking 360-degree view of the universe. Shows here range from educational journeys through our solar system, exploring planets and stars, to more artistic presentations like the popular Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon experience.Reddit+1

Visitors often rave about the feeling of 'being there' as the dome comes alive with celestial wonders. Some Redditors have noted that the audio system can sometimes be a point of contention, with recommendations to aim for specific seating areas for the best sound quality.Reddit The duration of shows is typically around 25-30 minutes, making them engaging without being too long for younger audiences.Reddit

When choosing a show, consider what interests you most. For a classic astronomical overview, shows like 'Perfect Little Planet' or 'Astronaut' are excellent choices.Reddit For a unique sensory experience, the Pink Floyd show offers a captivating blend of music and visuals that has garnered significant praise.Reddit+1

Exploring the Display Zone and Beyond

Beyond the captivating shows, the Display Zone at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium offers a wealth of knowledge. This free exhibition area showcases a variety of astronomical artifacts, models of planets, and informative displays detailing the history of astronomy, space exploration technology, and the science behind celestial phenomena. It's a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of the cosmos in a hands-on, engaging way.Instagram

Visitors often highlight the inclusion of Aboriginal interpretations of the night sky within the exhibits, adding a rich cultural dimension to the learning experience.Reddit This blend of scientific and cultural perspectives makes the planetarium a more comprehensive and insightful destination.

Furthermore, the planetarium's location within the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens provides an added bonus. After your celestial journey, you can explore the diverse plant collections, enjoy the scenic views, and make a full day of your visit. This combination of education, entertainment, and natural beauty makes the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium a well-rounded attraction for all ages.InstagramReddit

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