H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Located in Vanier Park, the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is Vancouver's gateway to the wonders of the universe, featuring a planetarium, observatory, and interactive exhibits.
Look for the iconic dome topped with a crab sculpture in Vanier Park, and you've found the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. A short bus ride from downtown, this engaging science centre has been sparking curiosity about the cosmos since 1968. It's a place for learning and discovery, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages with its state-of-the-art planetarium, live science shows, and fascinating exhibits.
Why Visit the Space Centre?
- Explore the Universe: Journey through the stars in the Planetarium Star Theatre, which projects stunning visuals of the night sky and beyond onto its domed ceiling.
- Interactive Exhibits: Learn about space exploration and astronomy through hands-on exhibits in the Cosmic Courtyard gallery.
- Live Science Shows: Be entertained and educated by live demonstrations at the GroundStation Canada Theatre.
- Look Through a Telescope: On clear Saturday nights, visit the Gordon MacMillan Southam Observatory next door to see celestial objects through a powerful telescope.
What to See & Do
- Planetarium Star Theatre: Lean back and enjoy a breathtaking multimedia show that takes you on a tour of our solar system and distant galaxies.
- Cosmic Courtyard: Touch a real meteorite, learn about the challenges of living in space, and explore interactive displays.
- GroundStation Canada Theatre: Watch live science demonstrations and presentations on a variety of space-themed topics.
- GMS Observatory: On Saturday evenings (weather permitting), volunteer astronomers will help you view planets, star clusters, and nebulae through the half-metre Cassegrain telescope.
Food & Drink Options
- There are no food services at the Space Centre itself. However, its location in Vanier Park makes it a perfect spot for a picnic.
- A short walk to Cornwall Avenue or nearby Kitsilano Beach offers a wide variety of cafes and restaurants.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Check Showtimes: Planetarium shows run on a schedule. Check the official website in advance to plan your visit around the shows you want to see. During the school year weekday mornings are often reserved for field trips.
- Observatory Hours: The observatory is only open on Saturday evenings and is weather-dependent. Check their website or social media for updates before you go.
- A Vanier Park Trio: The Space Centre is located right next to the Museum of Vancouver and a short walk from the Vancouver Maritime Museum. You can easily visit two or all three in one day.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Vanier Park & Kitsilano Beach: The Space Centre is located within the park, which is adjacent to one of Vancouver's most popular beaches.
- Museum of Vancouver: Shares the same building complex as the Space Centre.
- Vancouver Maritime Museum: Just a five-minute walk west through Vanier Park.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesH.R. MacMillan Space Centre Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 – 11:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 6:30 – 11:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Address: 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9, Canada
Phone: (604) 738-7827
Official Website: H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre Reviews
Rated out of 5
It’s a fun spot for kids, especially the planetarium shows and hands on activities. But honestly, I expected more. A lot of the tech feels outdated things like the projectors and displays really need an upgrade. The place has so much potential, but it could use a refresh to make it more exciting for all ages.
Indika Weerasinghe - in the last week
Visiting the space centre on May the fourth was certainly a good choice! As a kid, this was one of my favourite field trip destinations and it definitely helped foster my love of all things space. If you come here with children, make sure to check out the shows!
The downside: It is quite small and the exhibits are rather dated :(
Edith Wu - 2 weeks ago
3.5 overall - it's a good museum but very very small also. It's good as an introduction and for something quick to do. While reading all the plaques and viewing everything , it took maybe an hour to see it all. The planetarium was quite fun to watch. It's still a place you should visit, just don't expect a regular museum level experience.
CY Siu - 4 months ago
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is a must-visit in Vancouver for anyone curious about the universe. It’s more than a museum—it’s an immersive journey through space with stunning planetarium shows, interactive exhibits, and real telescope nights. You’ll learn about black holes, the Big Bang, life in space, and Canada’s role in space exploration, all in a way that’s engaging for both kids and adults. A truly unique place that makes science feel magical.
Alvaro Andres Salom - a week ago
Very poor projector alignment, and terrible content placement in the show made for a frustrating viewing experience (and a sore neck…). The presenter did a good job. The content in the “to the moon” show was very average however. Museum also a let down with a few of the more exciting hands-on exhibits not working, like the cloud chamber and vacuum bell.
Samuel Pinches - a week ago
Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Burrard Station | 9 Minutes |
How to get to H.R. MacMillan Space Centre by SkyTrain
From Burrard SkyTrain Station take the Burrard Street exit and catch a #2 Macdonald bus southbound on Burrard Street. Get off on Cornwall Avenue at Cypress Street. Walk back one block to Chestnut Street and turn left. The Space Centre is at the end of the street in Vanier Park.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Photo Gallery
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HR McMillan Space Centre (Planetarium) and Museum of Vancouver located in Vanier Park -
Photo Credit: H.R. MacMillan Space Centre -
Photo Credit: Victor Law -
Photo Credit: Rav Sandhu -
Photo Credit: Bradley Jones -
Photo Credit: Jane Harrison
