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Updated for families & teachers looking for planetariums in Milwaukee
Tucked inside the Physics Building at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee sits a true hidden gem for local families: the Manfred Olson Planetarium. It’s one of the three planetariums around Milwaukee where kids can explore the night sky, learn about space, and experience immersive, interactive shows.
➡️ Planning a full space-themed outing?
Be sure to check out our guide to the best planetariums around Milwaukee →
Why Families Love the UWM Manfred Olson Planetarium
The planetarium is known for its live, interactive programming, making it approachable and engaging for kids, teens, and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a unique field trip, a memorable birthday party, or a low-cost educational outing, this is one of the most accessible astronomy experiences in the city.
What You’ll See Inside
The dome features:
- A Spitz A3P optomechanical projector that shows stars, planets, the Sun, and the Moon
- A 30-foot dome for immersive sky shows
- Four digital projectors for visual effects
- Special projectors for experiences like the rotating Milky Way Galaxy and Aurora Borealis
It’s a chance for kids to see the night sky in a whole new way—even in the middle of the day or during our cloudiest months.
Rooftop Observatory
Families can also visit the observatory deck located on the roof of the Physics Building. It’s used for stargazing sessions and features the planetarium’s collection of telescopes, including:
- Meade 10″ LX200
- Meade 226
- Celestron-8
- Astroscan
- Unitron D102
- 12-inch Meade reflector
If your kids love hands-on science, these sessions are a treat.
Programs & Special Events
The planetarium offers a range of popular live programs, such as:
- Solar System Expedition
- Moving to Mars
- Birth of the Universe
They also host Friday night shows, weekend matinees, and other public events throughout the year. These events are affordable and designed for all ages.
📅 To see what’s coming up next, check their Events Page →
Birthday Parties, Field Trips & Group Visits
You can book the Manfred Olson Planetarium for:
- Birthday parties
- School field trips
- Scout groups
- Youth programs
A staff member leads kids through an engaging show in the dome, and groups can enjoy snacks and cake in a nearby classroom.
Know Before You Go
- The planetarium is located inside the Physics Building at UWM.
- Group visits, including birthdays and field trips, must be booked in advance.
- Public shows vary by season—check their Events Page for the current schedule.
If Your Family Loves Space…
Add the Kennedy Space Center to your family travel list. You’ve visited with both toddlers and teens and shared an honest family review on your site — it’s a great next stop for space-loving kids.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
