Chabot Space & Science Center, Bay Area Travel Guide

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Explore the universe at Oakland's Chabot Space & Science Center: interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and historic telescopes await!

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Chabot Space & Science Center

Nestled in the redwood-filled Oakland Hills, the Chabot Space & Science Center is a leading science center and public observatory. With interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and powerful telescopes, Chabot inspires and educates visitors of all ages about space and Earth science.

A brief summary to Chabot Space & Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland, Joaquin Miller Park, California, 94619, US
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Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chabot Space & Science Center.

Check the Chabot website for the schedule of planetarium shows and telescope viewing times.
Arrive early for telescope viewings, as they are popular and can have limited capacity.
Consider becoming a member for free admission and discounts on programs and events.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in Redwood Regional Park before or after your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

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Explore Chabot Space & Science Center on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Chabot Space & Science Center, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Chabot Space & Science Center is located at 10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland, CA 94619. From downtown Oakland, take I-580 or Highway 24 to the Warren Freeway/Highway 13. Exit Highway 13 at Joaquin Miller/Lincoln Avenue. Go east up Joaquin Miller to Skyline Boulevard and turn left onto Skyline at the traffic light. Continue on Skyline Boulevard for 1.3 miles. Turn right into Chabot Space & Science Center's main driveway. Free parking is available in the adjacent 3-level parking structure.
Public Transport

From the Fruitvale BART station in Oakland, take AC Transit bus line 53 to Chabot Space & Science Center. Please check the AC Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. As of July 2025, a single ride on AC Transit is $2.50.
Ride Share

From downtown Oakland, a rideshare to Chabot Space & Science Center will cost approximately $29-$35 and take about 16 minutes, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Chabot Space & Science Center

The Chabot Space & Science Center, located in Oakland's Redwood Regional Park, has been a beacon of scientific exploration and education for over a century. Founded in 1883 as the Oakland Observatory by Anthony Chabot, the center has evolved from a simple observatory to a multifaceted science center with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and research-level telescopes. Chabot features a variety of attractions, including the NASA Ames Visitor Center, which showcases the work of NASA scientists, and a planetarium with a Zeiss Universarium star projector. Visitors can explore exhibits on space travel, the solar system, and the universe, as well as participate in hands-on science experiments. The center is also home to three historic telescopes: Leah, an 8-inch refractor built in 1883; Rachel, a 20-inch refractor from 1914; and Nellie, a 36-inch reflector telescope added in 2003. These telescopes are open to the public for free viewing on Friday and Saturday evenings, weather permitting.Chabot's location in Redwood Regional Park offers a unique setting for learning about science and nature. The center's architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment, creating a sense of wonder and discovery. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Bay Area. Chabot Space & Science Center is a place where people of all ages can come to learn, explore, and be inspired by the wonders of the universe.