1 / 3John Drescher Planetarium
📍 Sunset Park, CA
Santa Monica College's planetarium presents weekly Night Sky Shows and feature programs using a 4K Digistar projection system. Sunday family matinees include both shows with live Q&A.
We've been going for years. Jim is an extraordinary lecturer: he used to work at the Griffith Observatory. His enthusiasm is contagious and he is very good with children also. The best time to go is when there is a telescope viewing after the indoor lecture, usually once a month. Parking is free on Fridays after 5 pm.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with school-aged children and teenagers who have genuine curiosity about space and science. The live lecture format with Q&A rewards engaged, questioning kids. Monthly telescope evenings are the premium visit — combining the indoor show with outdoor sky observation gives the full experience.
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💬 What Families Are Saying
3 Google reviews
Marie Velde
11 years ago
“We've been going for years. Jim is an extraordinary lecturer: he used to work at the Griffith Observatory. His enthusiasm is contagious and he is very good with children also. The best time to go is when there is a telescope viewing after the indoor lecture, usually once a month. Parking is free on Fridays after 5 pm.”
Michael Anselmo
8 years ago
“God bless John Hodge”
Reviews from Google
Overview
John Drescher Planetarium at Santa Monica College runs weekly live Night Sky Shows covering current astronomy news and constellation tours, alongside themed feature programs on subjects like black holes. Experienced lecturer Jim, a former Griffith Observatory presenter, leads sessions with enthusiasm and skill for engaging children. Sunday family matinees combine both programs with audience Q&A. Monthly telescope viewing nights follow the indoor presentation with outdoor sky observation.
