School Visits and Private Events

FAQs

• How many seats are in the planetarium?

  48. Larger groups can arrange for multiple showings.

• What programs do you offer for private groups?

  We can tailor the program for your group! In addition to astronomy topics presented live by our Planetarium Educators, all of our current immersive fulldome shows and laser programs are available. 

  We also offer programs specially designed for school field trips and scout groups. School visits are usually 1-2hrs in length while events like birthday parties which include atrium rental are typically around 3 hours long. We are happy to discuss any special requests!

• When can private groups visit?

  The planetarium is open year-round, save for a limited summer pause. Typically Friday and Saturday evenings are not available for private visits as they are reserved for our public programs. Our offerings on Sundays are limited and we cannot host laser programs requiring theatrical haze on that day. 

  If you need to reschedule, we will do our best to accommodate a shift. No-shows incur the full cost of the originally planned program. 

• What is the cost of a visit to the planetarium?

  Our pricing structure is based on number of visitors and length/type of program and is found below. Visits by school groups are discounted. Please contact us with any questions!

  • School Weekday $5/person/hr =  $150 minimum
  • School Weekend/Evening $6/person/hr = $175 minimum
  • Private visit (up to 25 ppl) - 1hr = $150
  • Private visit (up to 48 ppl) - 1hr = $200
  • Private visit (49 - 96 ppl) - 1hr =$250
  • 3 hr Total Rental* incl. Extra Room / Atrium Use (up to 48 ppl) - single 1 hr show $350
  • 3 hr Total Rental* incl. Extra Room / Atrium Use (49 - 96 ppl) - single 1 hr show $400 
  • summer camps - please fill out the Reservation Request Form and we will contact you with that pricing

  * This total time includes set up and tear down of tables and chairs plus clean up, all of which the visiting group is responsible for.
   

  Please note that private laser shows are an additional $2 per person per hour and are not available on Sundays if theatrical haze is required.

  Start your reservation by filling out our Reservation Request Form. 

• Are there discounts available for school visits?

  Yes! We have reduced costs for educational institutions and other non-profits. Thanks to our Planetarium for Everyone Fund, we can offer reduced admission costs and sometimes support for bus transportation. Contact us for more information.

• Is there space outside the planetarium available for rental?

  Yes. We have a beautiful Atrium which holds several hundred and also a classroom directly across from the planetarium that holds up to 50. As part of their planetarium experience, many groups have used the atrium space for birthday parties, cocktail hours, and other activities and school groups of larger size or who wish to add another dimension to their planetarium experience may arrange to utilize these spaces.

  Rental of the Atrium and/or any other spaces outside of the planetarium will require a Revocable Permit and proof of insurance.  Both of these will be facilitated through Buffalo State’s Events Management Office once a date is set for the event.

• Can I bring my own food or have food delivered?

  Please note that no food or beverages are allowed in the Planetarium at any time. However, reservations can be made to include time in our atrium space and tables and chairs can be provided so that guests can enjoy their own food / cake for celebrations. 

  Please note that groups are responsible for their own setup/tear down of tables and all clean up, so plan accordingly. 

  Catering can be arranged through the campus, depending on availability. There is no access to refrigeration or heating available.

• Can I bring alcohol for the adults?

  Service/sales of alcoholic beverages can be arranged through our Events Management office. No BYOB allowed.

• Can I have external vendors for decoration / catering?

  Unfortunately, we are unable to allow vendors access to our center during these events. Our private event packages are intended to be self-service events, wherein the host brings in decorations and food themselves and is wholly responsible for the set-up and clean-up of the rental space. We encourage hosts to plan their events accordingly.

• How do I make a reservation request?

  Please submit your information through our Reservation Request Form.

• What else should I know about planning a private planetarium experience?

  For more information, please see our Orientation and Expectations here. 

  Note, all private groups will be expected to be familiar and in compliance with the policies and procedures regarding safety, payment, etc. listed in this document.