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Goddard Planetarium

4.6
·55 reviews·Roswell, United States

Explore the cosmos and the legacy of rocketry pioneer Robert H. Goddard at this Roswell gem. Educational shows and fascinating exhibits await!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focused experience

CrowdLow
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Goddard Planetarium - Image 1

Goddard Planetarium

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focused experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the cosmos and the legacy of rocketry pioneer Robert H. Goddard at this Roswell gem. Educational shows and fascinating exhibits await!

4.6
(55 reviews)

"A surprisingly cool museum and an immersive planetarium experience, perfect for families and space enthusiasts."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Dress in Layers

The planetarium can get chilly! Bring a sweater or jacket for a comfortable viewing experience.

⏰ Check Showtimes

Show lengths can vary. Confirm durations beforehand to manage expectations.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Night Sky Presentation

The Night Sky Presentation

Planetarium Dome

Immerse yourself in a captivating presentation about stars and constellations, often led by knowledgeable hosts.

The Sun Exhibit

The Sun Exhibit

Museum Area

Explore an interesting exhibit dedicated to our solar system's star, offering insights into its power and influence.

Robert H. Goddard Museum

Robert H. Goddard Museum

Adjacent Museum

Discover the legacy of rocketry pioneer Robert H. Goddard in this surprisingly cool and often free museum.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Goddard Planetarium offers fascinating shows, reviews suggest show lengths can vary. Check showtimes in advance and be aware that some visitors found them shorter than expected. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid potential disappointment with specific exhibits or shows, especially during local events.

Comfort is Key

A recurring theme in visitor feedback is the temperature inside the planetarium, with some experiencing it as quite cold due to an air conditioning unit issue. Dress in layers to ensure a comfortable viewing experience, especially during longer shows or presentations.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more focused experience
Crowd
Low
When
During off-peak festival times
Why
Avoids potential show conflicts
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Roswell site video uploaded to the national archives clearly shows the craft as described by witnesses 👀 this might be a big deal…. #Roswell #Aliens #UAP #UFO #Enigma
@daily.enigma
1.2K likes • 31.8K views

🧥 Dress in Layers

The planetarium can get chilly! Bring a sweater or jacket for a comfortable viewing experience. Reddit

⏰ Check Showtimes

Show lengths can vary. Confirm durations beforehand to manage expectations. Reddit

✨ Learning Through Play ✨ What does it look like? Today, the Goddard School teamed up with the Children’s Museum of West Hartford to transform our gym into a magical planetarium! 🌌✨ Our preschool students had an out-of-this-world experience, exploring the wonders of the night sky and learning about constellations, stars, and more! 🌠🪐 Play is not just fun – it’s an essential way for little minds...
goddardschoolsouthwindsor
25 likes • 761 views
A journey to space… without leaving Earth! Today’s adventure was truly out of this world. 🪐 🌛 🌍 ✨ 🚀 ⭐️ ☄️ 🌌 🌠 🌙 🌑 #planetarium #galaxy #planets #stars #thegoddardschoolmorganvillenj #goddard #preschool #thegoddardschool #preschool #thegoddardschoolmorganvillenj #friyay #fridayfun #summer #summercamp
goddardschoolmorganvillenj
33 likes • 1.2K views

💰 Museum Entry

The adjacent museum is sometimes free, especially during construction. Worth checking! Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Approved

Children often love the immersive 3D-like experience. Great for family outings! Reddit

Space study - Pre k Rm 8 took a virtual trip to the planetarium. They laid back like they were in the chairs at the planetarium and to feel like they were actually there! #goddard #space
goddardschoolglastonburyct
5 likes • 372 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Dress in Layers

The planetarium can get chilly! Bring a sweater or jacket for a comfortable viewing experience. Reddit

⏰ Check Showtimes

Show lengths can vary. Confirm durations beforehand to manage expectations. Reddit

💰 Museum Entry

The adjacent museum is sometimes free, especially during construction. Worth checking! Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Approved

Children often love the immersive 3D-like experience. Great for family outings! Reddit

🚀 Space Enthusiast's Dream

Explore exhibits on space and rocketry, honoring pioneer Robert H. Goddard. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(55 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find the Goddard Planetarium and its adjacent museum to be an interesting and educational experience, particularly for families. The museum is often praised for its content and accessibility, sometimes being free to enter. However, some guests have noted issues with show lengths being shorter than anticipated and the planetarium's interior temperature being uncomfortably cold.

"Visiting the Goddard planetarium was on my to do list during my trip to Roswell. It was a pleasant experience, we were well received by their friendly staff. I got to experience the sun exhibit, which was very interesting. After the showing, our host Jeremy did a great job talking to us about the stars and constellations. Although, while the show was great, the room was very cold! Apparently their air conditioning unit has not been operational for over a year. That really needs to be corrected to offer an even greater experience to future guests."

Gelasio Rodriguez

"Came to visit town from out of state to visit the planetarium to see the planets, all I got was a lazer show with no alien display, as it was the alien festival weekend. Asked for refund as we were only in there not even 20 minutes before leaving in disgust. $60 down the drain. I would not even recommend coming here, the guy I talked to seemed like he was high. Not happy at all, was hoping to see the planets since it’s the planetarium."

Mari Adventures

"The museum was free the day I went. (I think because of all the construction and some wings closed.) I would've paid to ho in either way, really cool museum.

If you're ever in Roswell, check it out! 🌞🤩👽"

Angie Gerard

What People Like

Fascinating museum exhibits
Engaging for children
Educational space content

What People Dislike

Cold planetarium temperature
Short show durations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Goddard Planetarium is located in Roswell, New Mexico. It's often visited in conjunction with the Roswell Museum and Art Center. Driving is the most common way to reach Roswell, and the planetarium is usually accessible by car within the city. Reddit

Parking availability can vary, especially if visiting alongside the Roswell Museum. It's advisable to check with the venue or look for public parking options nearby upon arrival. Reddit

While many Roswell tours focus on UFO sites, some may include stops at the Robert H. Goddard Museum and Planetarium due to its historical significance and connection to the town's mystique. TikTok

Roswell is typically accessed by car. The nearest major airport is in Albuquerque (ABQ), which is about a 3-hour drive away. Reddit

Public transportation within Roswell might be limited. It's best to rely on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services if available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary. Some visitors have noted that the adjacent museum is sometimes free, especially during construction. It's recommended to check the official website or call ahead for the most current ticket information. Reddit

Booking in advance is generally a good idea, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or special events. This helps ensure you get a spot for your desired show. Reddit

Operating hours can differ, and it's best to consult the official Goddard Planetarium or Roswell Museum website for the most up-to-date schedule. Hours may also vary by season. Reddit

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel is not widely publicized. It's advisable to inquire directly with the planetarium staff about any available concessions. Reddit

Refund policies can be strict. One visitor reported being denied a refund for a show they disliked, so it's important to be sure about your show choice before purchasing tickets. Reddit

🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience

Shows can range from educational presentations on stars and constellations to immersive laser light shows. Some visitors have noted a lack of specific 'alien' displays, even during themed weekends. InstagramReddit

Yes, children often find the immersive, 3D-like experience captivating. It's a great way to introduce them to space and science in an engaging way. InstagramReddit+1

Show lengths can vary, with some visitors finding them shorter than anticipated, around 25-30 minutes rather than the expected 45 minutes. Reddit

Some visitors have reported the planetarium being quite cold, possibly due to air conditioning issues. Dressing in layers is highly recommended. Reddit

The museum is dedicated to the pioneer of rocketry, Robert H. Goddard. It's often described as a 'really cool museum' and is sometimes free to enter. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are typically no extensive dining facilities directly within the planetarium itself. Visitors may need to explore nearby restaurants in Roswell for food options. Reddit

It's generally not permitted to bring outside food and beverages into the planetarium show areas to maintain the cleanliness and viewing experience. Reddit

Roswell offers various dining choices, from casual diners to local eateries. Exploring the main streets of Roswell will provide numerous options for different tastes. Reddit

Many restaurants in Roswell cater to families. Look for places with diverse menus that can accommodate younger palates. Reddit

If there are separate areas or if you exit and re-enter (check policies), you might be able to grab a quick snack. However, it's often easier to plan meals before or after your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography and videography are typically prohibited during planetarium shows to avoid distracting other viewers and to protect the immersive experience. Reddit

Photography is usually permitted in the museum exhibits, but it's always a good idea to check for any posted signs or ask staff for clarification. Reddit

The exterior of the building and any exhibit areas outside the main dome are usually good for photos. Capturing the essence of the museum exhibits is also recommended. Reddit

Flash photography is almost always prohibited in planetarium domes and often in museums to protect sensitive displays and avoid disturbing other visitors. Reddit

Visitors often share photos of the museum exhibits, the planetarium building exterior, and sometimes general shots of the dome's interior (if allowed before or after shows). InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Goddard Planetarium is a fantastic outing for families. Children often find the immersive, dome-style presentations incredibly engaging, describing it as a '3D type of environment only better.' Reddit It's a wonderful way to spark their curiosity about space, planets, and stars. The adjacent Robert H. Goddard Museum also offers fascinating exhibits that can captivate younger minds with the history of rocketry. Reddit

Key recommendations for families:

* Dress in layers: The planetarium can be quite cold, so ensure kids are comfortable. Reddit
* Check show content: While generally engaging, confirm show themes align with your children's interests. Reddit
* Explore the museum: The museum is often free and provides a great complement to the planetarium experience. Reddit

🚀 Space Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those fascinated by space exploration and the history of science, the Goddard Planetarium and its accompanying museum are a must-visit. You'll delve into the pioneering work of Robert H. Goddard, the father of modern rocketry, whose innovations paved the way for space travel. Reddit The museum offers a deep dive into his life and achievements, providing context for humanity's journey to the stars. Reddit

Beyond the museum, the planetarium itself offers shows that explore the wonders of the cosmos. While some shows might be shorter than expected, the presentations on constellations and celestial phenomena are often highlighted as particularly enjoyable, especially when led by engaging hosts. Reddit It’s an opportunity to connect with the scientific endeavors that have shaped our understanding of the universe.

👽 UFO & Mystery Seekers

While the Goddard Planetarium is primarily focused on astronomy and rocketry, its location in Roswell, the famed UFO capital, adds a layer of intrigue. Visitors often come to Roswell seeking answers to extraterrestrial mysteries, and the planetarium offers a scientific counterpoint to the town's more speculative attractions. TikTokReddit

Although some visitors have expressed disappointment that specific 'alien displays' were not featured, even during festival weekends, the planetarium provides a grounded look at the universe. The adjacent museum celebrates the scientific achievements that enable us to explore space, a pursuit that inherently fuels our curiosity about what might lie beyond our own planet. It’s a place to appreciate the science that underpins our cosmic exploration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Robert H. Goddard

The Robert H. Goddard Planetarium is part of a larger complex dedicated to the pioneering rocket scientist, Robert H. Goddard. Goddard is widely recognized as the father of modern rocketry, having launched the world's first liquid-fueled rocket in 1926. His groundbreaking work laid the foundation for space exploration, influencing everything from early missile technology to the Apollo missions. The museum adjacent to the planetarium showcases his life, inventions, and the profound impact of his research. It's a chance to connect with a pivotal figure in scientific history. Reddit

Visitors often express surprise at how 'neat' and 'cool' the museum is, especially considering it's sometimes free to enter. This makes it an accessible and educational experience for all ages. The exhibits provide a tangible link to the early days of aerospace engineering, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of scientific innovation. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the history of flight and space travel. Reddit

While the planetarium offers a celestial journey, the museum provides an earthly perspective on the ingenuity that made such journeys possible. The combination offers a well-rounded experience, celebrating both the cosmos and the human drive to explore it. It’s a fitting tribute to a visionary whose ideas propelled humanity towards the stars. Reddit

Navigating the Planetarium Experience

The Goddard Planetarium offers an immersive experience designed to transport viewers through the cosmos. Shows typically take place within a domed theater where projections create a realistic and engaging portrayal of space. Visitors often describe the experience as '3D type of environment only better' because of its focus on celestial bodies. Reddit

However, it's important to manage expectations regarding show content and length. While some shows focus on stars and constellations with knowledgeable hosts, others might be laser light shows. A few reviews mention that shows can be shorter than anticipated, around 25-30 minutes. Additionally, a recurring point of feedback is the temperature inside the planetarium, with many finding it uncomfortably cold, possibly due to an air conditioning unit that has been non-operational for some time. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, it's advisable to check the specific show schedules and descriptions beforehand. Dressing in layers is a practical tip to ensure comfort throughout the presentation. Despite these minor drawbacks, the planetarium remains a popular attraction for families and space enthusiasts visiting Roswell. InstagramReddit

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