Explore the Wonders of the Cosmos at William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Discover the universe at the William M. Staerkel Planetarium, where the wonders of the cosmos come alive in captivating shows and exhibits.
Located in the heart of Champaign, the William M. Staerkel Planetarium is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to explore the fascinating world of astronomy. With its state-of-the-art projection system, the planetarium provides immersive experiences that transport visitors across the cosmos, showcasing stunning visuals of celestial bodies and phenomena. From the mesmerizing beauty of distant galaxies to the intricate details of our own solar system, guests are sure to be captivated by the educational programs and shows designed for audiences of all ages. The planetarium's schedule features a variety of shows that cater to everyone, from young children discovering the night sky for the first time to seasoned astronomy buffs delving deeper into complex topics. Interactive exhibits enhance the experience, allowing visitors to engage with the material and learn about the universe in an enjoyable and accessible way. Whether you are planning a family outing or a romantic date night, the William M. Staerkel Planetarium promises an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and knowledge. In addition to its stellar presentations, the planetarium is part of the Parkland College campus, which adds to the cultural vibrancy of the area. After your visit, take some time to explore the campus grounds or grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes. With its blend of entertainment, education, and community spirit, the William M. Staerkel Planetarium makes for an enriching stop on your journey through Champaign, Illinois.
Local tips
- Check the schedule online before visiting to catch the shows that interest you the most.
- Arrive early to secure good seating, especially for popular shows.
- Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
- Don't miss the interactive exhibits that enhance your learning experience.
- Bring a notebook to jot down interesting facts during the shows.
A brief summary to William M. Staerkel Planetarium
- 2400 W Bradley Ave, Champaign, Illinois, 61821, US
- +1217-351-2568
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 12:30 pm-3 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Champaign, go to the nearest bus stop and take the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (CUMTD) bus route 5 (Green Line). Board the bus in the direction of the Parkland College. Stay on the bus for about 15 minutes. Get off at the stop at Parkland College (2400 W Bradley Ave). The William M. Staerkel Planetarium is located on the campus of Parkland College. After you get off the bus, walk towards the main building, and you will see the planetarium signs directing you to the entrance.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, rent a bicycle from one of the local bike-share programs available in Champaign. Start from downtown Champaign and head west on University Ave. Continue straight for about 2 miles until you reach the intersection with Bradley Ave. Turn right onto Bradley Ave and bike for about half a mile. The William M. Staerkel Planetarium will be on your left as you approach Parkland College. There are bike racks available near the entrance.
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Walking
If you're staying nearby, you can walk to the planetarium. From downtown Champaign, head west on University Ave. Walk for approximately 2 miles until you reach the intersection with Bradley Ave. Turn right at Bradley Ave and walk for about half a mile. The William M. Staerkel Planetarium will be located on the left side of Bradley Ave within the Parkland College campus. Look for the planetarium signs as you approach.
Attractions Nearby to William M. Staerkel Planetarium
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Kaufman Lake
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Centennial Park
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Alto Vineyards Champaign
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West Side Park
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Cattle Bank
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Champaign County History Museum at the Historic Cattle Bank
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Hessel Park
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Helms Park
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Douglass Park
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Main Quad
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Krannert Art Museum
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Spurlock Museum
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Champaign-Urbana Adventures in Time and Space
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University of Illinois Arboretum
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West Union Bridge
Landmarks nearby to William M. Staerkel Planetarium
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Exaltation of the Holy Cross Catholic Church
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Springer Cultural Center
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The Himalayan Chimney
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Virginia Theatre
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Dark Matter Collective
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Bentley's Pub
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Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
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Watson's Shack & Rail
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Hamilton Walker's
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Big Grove Tavern
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The Literary
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The Space
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Cowboy Monkey
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PACA Architectural Salvage Warehouse
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Visit Champaign County