Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium Tours and Activities

Montreal which includes interior views
Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
Montreal featuring interior views
Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
Montreal featuring an observatory and a city


See a light show in each of the two domes of this planetarium to learn about the stars and see some impressive visuals.

The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium is the ambitious replacement for the previous Montréal Planetarium, which closed in 2011. Learn about the mysteries of the universe while seated in one of its two aluminum domes.

While most planetariums across the world have one gigantic dome, the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium has two. Each dome holds its own star show every day throughout the week. Buy a ticket to see a show in each dome. The shows are each about 20 minutes long, and are screened several times a day.

The first show is a poetic reflection on the mysteries of life and the universe. Watch as the dramatic visual effects take you on a tour from the smallest to the largest things in the universe. Also, listen for the symphonic music of Philip Glass, which soundtracks this show.

The second show is a scientific tour of the stars and planets visible in our skies. Listen as an astronomer guides you through the constellations and planets. This show also features impressive visuals, letting you see the stars and planets featured in the tour up close. Come during two separate seasons to see the show change to fit the constellations in the Montréal sky.

Explore the permanent exhibition, which is spread out over the space between the two domes. Here, you will find a collection of samples from more than 300 meteorites, including two found in the Québec area. Play with the interactive exhibits on the main floor, which teach about the field of astrobiology. Admire the Tyrannosaurus Rex skull that sits near the front of the exhibition.

The Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium is located in Montréal’s Olympic Park. It lies next to several other attractions, such as the Biodome and the Botanical Garden. Arrive by bus or metro train, which stop less than a block away. Parking is available for an all-day fee.

The planetarium is open year-round.

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

At the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium in Montreal, visitors can enjoy engaging planetarium shows and informative tours that promise an unforgettable immersive astronomical experience. The venue also features a picnic area, making it an ideal spot to relax after exploring. Additionally, the lively atmosphere surrounding the planetarium includes festivals and live music, enhancing your visit to this cultural gem.

Shopping

At the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, enjoy shopping at Jean-Talon Market, a vibrant public market just 6.4km away, offering fresh produce and local goods. Also, visit Complexe Desjardins and Bonsecours Market, both 6.4km away, for a mix of entertainment and unique city vibes.

Recreation

At the Olympic Stadium, immerse yourself in an energetic atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts. The Montreal Symphony Orchestra offers a cultural escape with captivating performances. For tranquility, Seaway Park invites you to relax amidst nature, making it ideal for wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, located 6.4km from the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium. For winter sports enthusiasts, Mont Saint-Bruno Ski Resort, 17.7km away, offers excellent skiing opportunities. Alternatively, enjoy water sports at Maeva Surf, situated 16.1km from the planetarium.

Nightlife

The nightlife surrounding the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium offers diverse experiences. Enjoy a captivating performance at St. Denis Theatre, embrace family fun at Action 500 arcade, or indulge in the artistic ambiance of Denise-Pelletier Theater. Each venue promises a memorable evening filled with culture and entertainment.

Find the best attractions near Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

When visiting the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium in Montreal, immerse yourself in the vibrant urban parks and botanical gardens nearby, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the local culture through the Montreal Planetarium's exhibits and events. Don't miss the chance to stroll through the charming streets that surround the area, offering a delightful blend of nature and urban life to enhance your travel experience.

  • Montreal Biodome: Located a mere 161m from the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, the Montreal Biodome offers a unique experience where visitors can explore diverse ecosystems from a tropical rainforest to polar regions. It's perfect for families and couples seeking a romantic stroll amidst vibrant flora and fauna.
  • Six Flags La Ronde: A thrilling theme park situated 4.8km away, Six Flags La Ronde features exhilarating rides and entertainment options. It's an ideal destination for families looking for a fun-filled day of adventure and excitement.
  • Jean-Drapeau Park: Also 4.8km from the Planetarium, Jean-Drapeau Park is a picturesque area for outdoor activities. Families can enjoy picnicking, walking trails, and stunning views of the city skyline, making it a lovely retreat.

Best time to go to Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

Visitor numbers around Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January15.8°F (-9.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February18.0°F (-7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December25.0°F (-3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium

To save on your visit to the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, consider travelling between January and March for lower hotel rates and booking your stay for a Tuesday, the cheapest day. Explore free attractions like the Old Port of Montreal, McGill University, and Montreal Casino. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations and combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to check for discounts, ticket deals, and eco-certified hotel options to enhance your experience while keeping costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget and preferred location, among other options. You can easily sort the results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your hotel stay at the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.