Having trouble planning an outing that the whole family would enjoy? Spend the day at the Space Centre where your teen and kiddo can have fun all while learning. Planning a day with your family can be challenging as teenagers and younger kids have very different interests. The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre offers an experience for all ages. Through interactive activities, engaging planetarium shows, and awesome live science demonstrations, there are opportunities to discover the wonders of space.
An Early Start
Arriving at the Space Centre early gives your family plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. It is a good way to avoid large crowds, especially during weekends, school breaks, and rainy days.
Before you arrive, take a look at the schedule for planetarium shows. Make most of your day by planning ahead.
Since you’ll be exploring, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bringing a water bottle will keep everyone hydrated and comfortable during the visit.
Explore the Cosmic Courtyard Gallery
The Cosmic Courtyard Gallery is one of the highlights of the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre as visitors are invited to interact instead of just observing.
Teenagers often spend time learning about planets, black holes, rockets, and space exploration. The exhibits encourage them to think about scientific ideas while also discovering something new.
Parents also find themselves joining the fun as well. Exploring together creates opportunities to ask questions, compare ideas, and learn as a family.
Watch Live Science Demonstrations
The live science demonstrations bring scientific ideas to life in an exciting and easy way.
The demonstrations often include experiments involving physics and space technology. The interpreters explain each experiment while encouraging visitors to participate and ask questions.
Children enjoy seeing science in action, like a fire in Colour of Fire, while teenagers gain a better understanding of concepts, like Newton’s Laws of physics in Rocket Lab. The whole family would also enjoy Day in Space by learning what it’s like to live as an astronaut.
These presentations add a variety to your visit and create memorable moments for the whole family.
Experience a Planetarium Show
A visit to the planetarium is the most exciting part of the day. Why not explore the icy moons of Saturn in Surfing the Solar System? Or discover the potential for life beyond our planet in EXO: Are We Alone?
In the Star Theatre Planetarium, guests can see projections of the night sky, constellations, and our solar system. The experience creates the feeling of traveling through space without leaving your seat.
Young ones are captivated by the colourful visuals and engaging stories. Teenagers usually appreciate the detailed explanations about astronomy and recent discoveries.
Planetarium shows are tailored for specific age groups. Be sure to check which show appeals to the whole family.
If you’re looking for a family outing that offers more than just entertainment, the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is worth adding to your list. With interactive exhibits, inspiring planetarium shows, and activities for every age. It is a place where curiosity comes naturally, and every visit offers something new to discover. Start planning your visit today before you go and get ready to explore the wonders of space with the whole family.
FAQ
How much is admission?
General admission prices are:
- Adults (19–54): $27.50 + tax
- Youth (12–18): $25.50 + tax
- Children (5–11): $19.60 + tax
- Seniors (55+): $25.50 + tax
- Children under 5: Free (with a paying adult)
- Family (up to 5 people, maximum 2 adults): $85.35 + tax
For more information on tickets, visit here.
Do I have to pay for parking?
Yes. Visitors who drive must pay for parking at EasyPark - Lot 60, which is beside the Space Centre. Payment can be made using the ZipBy app or at the parking kiosk.
How do I get there?
The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is located at 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC, in Vanier Park. You can get there by:
- Car: About a 5-minute drive from downtown Vancouver via the Burrard Bridge.
- Transit: Take the #2 or #32 bus, then walk about 5 minutes.
- Bike: About a 10-minute ride from downtown.
- Walking: About 15 minutes from downtown or 10 minutes from Granville Island.
- False Creek Ferry: Get off at the Vanier Park stop.
Can I become a member?
Yes. The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre offers two annual membership options:
- Standard Membership ($74.75 + tax): Includes unlimited regular admission for one member and one guest for one year.
- Enhanced Membership ($149.50 + tax): Includes unlimited regular admission for one member and up to three guests for one year.
Memberships are valid for one year from the date of purchase and include benefits such as discounts on select events, birthday parties, and venue rentals, a monthly member newsletter, voting privileges at the Society's Annual General Meeting, and reciprocal admission discounts at participating museums and science centres.
For many visitors, a membership pays itself after approximately three visits while providing year-round savings and exclusive member benefits.
If you have questions or would like to purchase a membership, visit the Space Centre website, call (604) 738-9620, or email membership@spacecentre.ca.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to explore the wonders of space? Visit the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre at 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC, located in scenic Vanier Park. It's easy to reach by car, public transit, bike, or even the False Creek Ferry.
Admission tickets are available for adults, youth, children, seniors, and families, with free entry for children under five when accompanied by a paying adult. If you're driving, paid parking is available in the EasyPark lot next to the Space Centre.
Before you go, check the daily schedule for planetarium shows, live science demonstrations, and special events so you can make the most of your visit. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, but not mandatory, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
Get your tickets online at www.spacecentre.ca or at the front desk.