Hardin Planetarium
Experience the cosmos in a 40-foot dome with immersive 360° shows. Free admission makes this WKU gem a must-visit for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Family-friendly shows
Hardin Planetarium
Best Time
Family-friendly shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the cosmos in a 40-foot dome with immersive 360° shows. Free admission makes this WKU gem a must-visit for all ages.
"A 10/10 experience! Super kid friendly, our 3 year old had a blast."
🎯 Check Showtimes First
Shows are limited! Always check the schedule online before you go.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is available behind the building in a gravel lot. Plan accordingly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cosmic Journeys
Main Dome
Immerse yourself in a 360° cosmic adventure powered by a state-of-the-art digital projector.
Pink Floyd Exhibit
Special Exhibitions
Experience the magic of Pink Floyd's music synchronized with stunning visuals under the stars.
Interactive Learning
Throughout the Planetarium
Engage with knowledgeable presenters who make learning about space fun and accessible for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Free Fun, Plan Ahead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Showtimes First
Shows are limited! Always check the schedule online before you go.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is available behind the building in a gravel lot. Plan accordingly!
🚻 Restroom Location
Restrooms are in the adjacent campus building, so keep that in mind.
✨ Interactive Experience
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Presenters love engaging with the audience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Showtimes First
Shows are limited! Always check the schedule online before you go.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is available behind the building in a gravel lot. Plan accordingly!
🚻 Restroom Location
Restrooms are in the adjacent campus building, so keep that in mind.
✨ Interactive Experience
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Presenters love engaging with the audience.
💖 Dreamy Date Spot
Consider this for a romantic and unique date night under the stars. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hardin Planetarium for its engaging and educational shows, particularly highlighting the knowledgeable and interactive presenters. The free admission is a major draw, making it an accessible and highly recommended experience for families, couples, and educational groups alike. While parking and restroom locations require a bit of planning, the overall cosmic journey is considered a 10/10 experience.
"Mr. Chris Chandler did an excellent job of presenting both shows for our homeschool group. He was very helpful in planning our field trip to the planetarium by giving us a list of shows to choose from and accommodating the date and time we requested.
He was very engaging with the children and let them be part of the experience, instead of just having them sit and watch the show.
Mr. Chris was obviously very knowledgeable in all the topics he discussed and made the entire experience interesting and informative."
Ruth Chartier
"Very interesting, highly recommend making it to a the presentation. It was a 10/10! Super kid friendly, our 3 year old had a blast."
Corri Massey
"A great family night!! Our kids enjoyed everything about the planetarium. I haven't been to one since I was young. The host was really great with my kids who had lots of silly questions. The whole experience was interactive which made it a much better experience. It's so nice having a place to take the kids that cost nothing. Every seat is the best seat!"
C Skinner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hardin Planetarium is located on the WKU campus. Parking is available in a gravel lot behind the building. It's about a 30-minute drive south of Mammoth Cave.
Yes, there is parking available behind the planetarium in a makeshift gravel lot.
The planetarium is situated on the WKU campus and is a short drive from Mammoth Cave National Park.
Information on public transportation options to WKU campus may vary. It's best to check local transit schedules for Bowling Green, KY.
While on campus, follow signage for the planetarium. It's a well-known facility within WKU.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Hardin Planetarium is FREE! This makes it a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers and families.
While tickets are free, it's highly recommended to check the show schedule and arrive a bit early, especially for popular shows or weekend visits, to ensure good seating.
The planetarium typically offers shows on Sunday afternoons and Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Specific showtimes can be found on their website or social media. 
Yes, they often feature special exhibits like the Pink Floyd 50th anniversary show. Keep an eye on their announcements for unique programming.
The planetarium is very kid-friendly, with shows suitable for a wide range of ages, including young children.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the immersive experience within the 40-foot dome, featuring a 360° cosmic journey powered by a Digitalis Epsilon digital projector.
Most shows are approximately 45 minutes long, providing a substantial and engaging experience.
Absolutely! Presenters are known for being engaging and knowledgeable, often involving the audience and answering questions, making it a highly interactive experience.
You can expect a variety of shows, from educational programs about space and our solar system (like 'Spaceship Earth') to special themed shows, such as the Pink Floyd exhibit.
Restrooms are located in the campus building next door, so it's advisable to plan accordingly before or after your show.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography may be restricted during shows to avoid disturbing other guests and for the integrity of the projection. It's best to check with staff upon arrival.
The WKU campus itself offers scenic spots. The exterior of the planetarium building might also provide interesting architectural shots.
While inside, focus on soaking in the experience. Outside, capture the campus atmosphere or any unique architectural features.
Flash photography is almost always prohibited inside planetariums during shows to protect the projection system and not disrupt the viewing experience.
For inside, a phone camera with good low-light performance might suffice for any permitted moments. Outside, a wider lens could capture the campus setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your visit around shows specifically geared towards younger audiences if available. The experience offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to spark their curiosity about astronomy and science in a memorable, awe-inspiring setting. It’s a great way to supplement school learning or simply provide a fun, educational adventure.
💖 Couples Seeking a Unique Date
The free admission makes it an ideal option for a budget-friendly date, allowing you to focus on the experience itself. Special exhibits, like the Pink Floyd show, can add an extra layer of unique entertainment. It’s a refreshing alternative to typical date activities, offering both visual splendor and a touch of intellectual stimulation.
📚 Homeschool Groups & Educators
The free admission is a significant advantage for educational groups. The planetarium provides a captivating and informative environment that can complement classroom learning, bringing abstract concepts to life. Planning ahead with the presenter is key to maximizing the educational value of the visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Dome
Presenters play a crucial role in enhancing this visual spectacle. They are highly knowledgeable and adept at making complex astronomical concepts accessible and engaging. Whether explaining the formation of planets or the vastness of the universe, their enthusiasm is infectious. This interactive element, where questions are encouraged and answered, transforms a passive viewing into an active learning adventure.
Shows like 'Spaceship Earth' offer a foundational understanding of our planet's place in the universe, while special events, such as the Pink Floyd exhibit, blend popular culture with astronomical visuals for a unique sensory experience. The combination of cutting-edge projection and expert narration makes each visit memorable.
+1A Free Gem for Families and Couples
Many visitors highlight the planetarium as a perfect spot for a romantic evening. The dimly lit dome, the awe-inspiring visuals of the night sky, and the shared experience of wonder create an intimate atmosphere. It’s a chance to disconnect from daily life and connect with each other while marveling at the universe.
Beyond the main shows, the planetarium occasionally hosts special events, like the Pink Floyd exhibit, which adds another layer of appeal. These unique offerings, combined with the consistent quality of the regular programming, make the Hardin Planetarium a recurring destination for many locals and a must-visit for tourists.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit