H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre and planetarium in Vancouver features a Star Theatre, GroundStation Canada Theatre, exhibits, an observatory and more

Located a short bus ride from downtown Vancouver in Vanier Park, the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre Planetarium has two theatres: The Planetarium Star Theatre and the GroundStation Canada Theatre which run a schedule of shows throughout the day. There are a number of exhibits to explore while you wait for your showtime.
The Planetarium Theatre is a domed circular theatre which uses a giant Zeiss projector to produce a 360-degree view of the night sky as seen from Vancouver along with multimedia shows. The Groundstation Canada is a 90 seat theatre featuring interactive and audio-visual space themed presentations. On Friday and Saturday evenings there are Laser and Light Shows for a separate admission charge. There is also an observatory next to the Space Centre which offers public viewings on clear Saturday evenings.
The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre Planetarium also adjoins the Vancouver Museum and is just a short walk from Vancouver Maritime Museum.
For complete details and show times at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre Planetarium click on the link to their official website above.
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
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 A lot of the tech feels outdated things like the projectors and displays really need an upgrade.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 either the #2 or #22 Macdonald going south on Burrard Street at the stop directly in front of the station. Take either bus to the Cypress Street Stop on Cornwall Avenue (less that 10 minutes). Walk back along Cornwall Ave. to Chestnut Street and go left. The park and Space Center are straight ahead.
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Accommodations near H.R. MacMillan Space Centre:
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
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