Soar Through the Skies, or Plunge Into the Sea's Depths. . at the NJ State Museum Planetarium

There are lots of reasons to visit the NJ State Museum, in Trenton, NJ, a small yet diverse museum located in the state's capital city.  But one of the main reasons has to be the museum's high-def, totally cool planetarium. The largest planetarium in NJ, it seats 150 people in specially-designed reclining seats which allows visitors to view the entire 360-degree dome.  At this planetarium, you really feel like you have been immersed in the show going on above and around you.

Open on Saturdays and Sundays, the planetarium offers several shows each weekend day.  And the shows are great! Regardless of your age or interest level, there will be show that's right for you and your family.  And since the museum itself is also worth a visit (and admission is free) why not combine a planetarium show with a stroll around the museum?

Currently, through April 1, 2012, the planetarium schedule is as follows: 

1:00 pm - One World, One Sky--travel through space with Elmo Big Bird, and friends--a perfect show for the younger crowd.

2:00 pm - The Secret of the Cardboard Rocket--learn the basics of astronomy as you voyage through space with two kids and their homemade rocket--designed for kids ages 3-10.

3:00 pm - Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure--a journey back in time, when Mosasaurs, plesiosuars, and other giants ruled the seas.  An awesome story about what our ancient oceans may have looked like--including all of the dangers that lurk in the depths.  This show is intended for children ages 6+, and has some quite vivid imagery (I took my sons to see this one--truly amazing visuals, but be prepared for the Bambi-like moment when the cretoxyrhina--an ENORMOUS ancient shark--eats the "mommy" Doli a peace-loving species).

4:00 pm - Passport to the Universe --narrated by Tom Hanks, this movie details new scientific astronomical discoveries,, and is also filled with vivid and startling (but not scary) imagery.  This beautiful movie is suitable for all ages, including adults.

(The planetarium is sometimes open during holidays & vacation weeks, such as Christmas week in December.  During that week, there are extra showings of the phenomenal show "Laser Nutcracker."  Make sure to get there early to get your tickets--it is ALWAYS a sell-out).

Admission is $7 for adults, and $5 for kids 12 and under.  Check out the website for more information about the planetarium shows, as well as a coupon for $1 off tickets.  http://www.njstatemuseum.org/dos_museum_programs_planetarium.html

Definitely check it out before this movie line-up changes!  Sea Monsters, for sure, is not one you want to miss!