Add El Paso's Planetarium to Your Summer Bucket List

You don't have to leave El Paso to take a trip through the stars.

When we're looking for summer activities, it's easy to think we need a road trip, a big event or an expensive day out. But sometimes the best adventures are hiding right in our own backyard.

That's exactly how I felt after visiting the Gene Roddenberry Planetarium.

For a lot of El Pasoans, the planetarium probably brings back memories of school field trips. But if you haven't been in years- or ever- consider this your sign to add it to your summer bucket list!

The Gene Roddenberry Planetarium Has Been an El Paso Favorite for Decades

The planetarium has been part of El Paso since 1969 and has welcomed more than 2 million visitors over the years. Originally known simply as "The Planetarium," it was later renamed after El Paso native Gene Roddenberry- you know, the creator of the Star Trek universe!

Today, The Roddenberry operates out of its updated home in Northeast El Paso, where its immersive dome projections make visitors feel like they're traveling through space.

Visiting El Paso's Planetarium Feels Like a Summer Side Quest

I went to an afternoon showing and honestly forgot how much fun the planetarium can be.

The presentation starts by turning the dome into the El Paso night sky. Our presenter showed us how to spot constellations like Leo, the Big Dipper and the Little Dipper before transitioning into "Experience the Aurora," a show about how the Northern Lights happen.

The entire experience lasts about 45 minutes and genuinely feels like a mini adventure.

El Paso's Planetarium Is One of the City's Best Free Attractions

Here's the best part: admission is completely free!

Reservations open about a week in advance and can fill up quickly, but I learned something during my visit. Sometimes people reserve tickets and don't show up, so walk-ins are allowed up to five minutes before showtime if seats become available.

Adults and kids can both enjoy the experience, and there are even animated shows designed specifically for younger visitors- and shows in Spanish. You can check out their upcoming events here.

Maybe it's the nostalgia of those school field trips or maybe it's just spending 45 minutes looking up instead of down at our phones.

Either way, El Paso's planetarium feels like one of the city's most underrated attractions- and the perfect little summer side quest.

Best Stargazing Spots Near El Paso

From Scenic Drive and Hueco Tanks to the Davis Mountains, these are some of the best places near El Paso to escape the city lights and enjoy the night sky.

Gallery Credit: Joanna Barba