Explore the Wonders of the William M. Staerkel Planetarium
Discover the cosmos at the William M. Staerkel Planetarium in Champaign, Illinois, where educational experiences meet stunning celestial visuals.
The William M. Staerkel Planetarium in Champaign, Illinois, offers a captivating journey through the cosmos. With its immersive shows and educational programs, this planetarium is a must-visit for tourists and space enthusiasts alike.
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
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure good seating for the shows, as the dome theater can fill up quickly during busy times.
- Check the website for special events or themed shows that may be happening during your visit.
- Consider attending a Friday night show for extended hours and a lively atmosphere.
- Bring your family; the planetarium offers programs suitable for all ages, making it a great educational outing.
Getting There
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Car
To reach the William M. Staerkel Planetarium by car, start by getting onto I-57 N from your location. Continue on I-57 N for about 15 miles. Take exit 231 for I-74 W toward Peoria. Merge onto I-74 W and continue for approximately 5 miles. Take exit 185 for Neil St. and turn left onto N Neil St. After about 1 mile, turn right onto W Bradley Ave. The planetarium will be on your left at 2400 W Bradley Ave, Champaign, IL 61821. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, start by locating the nearest bus stop. Use the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) bus service. Take the bus that heads towards downtown Champaign and get off at the 'Neil St & Bradley Ave' stop. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk. Head west on Bradley Ave for approximately 0.2 miles, and the planetarium will be on your right. Be sure to check the MTD website for the current bus schedule, as fares may apply.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a convenient option, you can use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input 'William M. Staerkel Planetarium, 2400 W Bradley Ave, Champaign, IL 61821' as your destination. The fare will vary depending on your starting location and the time of day, so be sure to check the app for an estimate before confirming your ride.
Discover more about William M. Staerkel Planetarium
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