W.A. Gayle Planetarium: Montgomery's Gateway to the Stars
Explore the universe at Montgomery's W.A. Gayle Planetarium: Captivating shows, interactive exhibits, and a state-of-the-art digital dome await!
The W.A. Gayle Planetarium, nestled in Montgomery's Oak Park, has been a beacon of astronomical education since its dedication on September 25, 1968. Named in honor of William Armistead Gayle, a former mayor of Montgomery, the planetarium has evolved into a premier destination for exploring the cosmos. Operated by the Montgomery Zoo for the City of Montgomery, it continues to inspire visitors with its captivating presentations and exhibits. From 1972 to 2022, Troy University managed the planetarium, until management responsibilities were transferred back to the City of Montgomery. In February 2014, the planetarium underwent a significant upgrade with the installation of the Super MediaGlobe II, a full-color single-lens digital planetarium system projecting simulations of the latest discoveries about our universe. Inside the 159-seat theater, visitors can embark on virtual journeys to the edge of the known universe. The Super MediaGlobe II simulates stars, constellations, and planets and recreates natural sky phenomena such as lightning, clouds, rain, snow, and auroras. The planetarium also offers public presentations and exhibits on astronomy, planetary science, and space exploration.
Local tips
- Check the planetarium's schedule in advance, as public shows are currently offered only on Saturdays.
- Arrive 15-20 minutes before the show to purchase tickets at the gift shop.
- Consider booking a group reservation for weekday showings, available Tuesdays through Fridays.
A brief summary to W.A. Gayle Planetarium
- 1010 Forest Ave, Montgomery, Alabama, 36106, US
- +1334-625-4799
- Saturday 10 am-2 pm
Getting There
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Driving
If driving, navigate towards Oak Park in Montgomery. The planetarium is located at 1010 Forest Ave. Parking is available and free near the planetarium.
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Public Transport
Montgomery's public transit system, The M, has several routes that service areas near Oak Park. From a bus stop along Forest Avenue, it's a short walk to the planetarium. A single bus fare is $1.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Montgomery. A ride from downtown Montgomery to the planetarium typically costs between $12 and $18, depending on traffic and demand.
Attractions Nearby to W.A. Gayle Planetarium
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Oak Park
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Montgomery Interpretive Center of Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
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Montgomery Tours
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Dexter Parsonage Museum
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The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum
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The MOOseum
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The First White House of the Confederacy
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Museum of Alabama
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AlabamaMosaic
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Alabama Department of Archives & History
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Cloverdale Park
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Alabama State Capitol
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Civil Rights Memorial
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Civil Rights Memorial Center
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Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church
