Fleischmann Planetarium
Rating
Family of 4
$30-$50 for a family of 4.
Duration
1.5-2.5 hours including a dome show and exhibits
Best Ages
Best for ages 5-17
About
Fleischmann Planetarium at the University of Nevada, Reno is one of those experiences that has a specific kind of magic for first-time visitors: the moment a planetarium dome fills with a projected night sky, kids who were squirming in their seats go quiet and stare upward. It works every time.
This campus planetarium has served Reno-area families and school groups for decades. Located on the UNR campus at 1664 N Virginia St, it offers dome shows, exhibits, and astronomy programming that combines entertainment with real science education.
For families, the key is planning around the show schedule. The dome shows are the centerpiece — full-dome digital productions that can cover everything from the life cycle of stars to virtual tours of the solar system. Check the show schedule on UNR's website before visiting, and plan to arrive 15 minutes before your selected show.
The rest of the visit — lobby exhibits and displays — extends the experience but the show is the main event.
The on-campus location offers a bonus combination: the W.M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum is also on the UNR campus (a separate listing in this batch), making it easy to pair both visits into a half-day educational Reno trip.
With a 4.4-star rating across 167 reviews, it's a solid institution. Budget $30-$50 for a family of 4 for dome show tickets. Check the UNR website for current pricing, show schedules, and any special events.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Check current show times and schedule on their website — planetarium shows run at specific times. Plan your visit around a dome show.
Wait Times
Minimal wait if you've checked show times; arrive 15 min before a scheduled show
Nearby Food
University campus has food options. The Midtown Reno restaurant district is a short drive from the UNR campus.
Why Kids Love It
Fleischmann Planetarium is a classic dome theater experience — kids recline in their seats and watch the night sky projected across a full dome ceiling. For kids who've never been to a planetarium, the first moment the dome lights up with stars is genuinely jaw-dropping. The combination of astronomy education with a cinematic spectacle makes it one of those activities that expands how kids see the world.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Plan your visit around a dome show — check the schedule on their website before arriving.
- The dome theater experience is most impactful for first-time planetarium visitors — the 'wow' factor is real.
- On-campus location at UNR makes it easy to combine with other UNR attractions like the Keck Mineral Museum (also on campus).
- Young children (under 5) may struggle with sitting still in a dark theater for the full show duration.
- Look for special programming like holiday shows or special astronomy events that may make certain visits particularly memorable.
What to Bring
- Nothing required — just bring curiosity
- Jacket or sweater (dome theaters can be cool)
- Kids' excitement about space
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$30-$50 for a family of 4.
Dome show tickets typically $6-$10 per person.
Check current pricing at unr.
edu/planetarium.
Tips to Save
- Check for discounts on UNR's website — university planetariums often have reduced rates for children, students, and specific shows.
- Weekday shows may have lower attendance and the same content as weekend shows.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 3:30-8PM
- Monday
- Closed
- Sunday
- 2:30-7PM
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Saturday
- 9:30AM-9PM
- Thursday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- Closed
