One of the best secrets of the Cincinnati Parks is the Wolff Planetarium located at the Trailside Nature Center in Burnet Woods. This Spitz model A-1  planetarium was purchased in 1950, and is the oldest planetarium west of the Allegheny Mountains. Twenty adults can sit under the twelve foot dome to view the stars in all seasons and all latitudes. If you are going on a trip to the southern hemisphere or the arctic circle, we can even give you a preview of any stars you might see from Earth.

As well as being one of the oldest planetariums, the Wolff Planetarium may also be the most low-tech. There are no prerecorded programs here. The journey through the stars is led by an experienced naturalist who knows diverse myths and obscure facts about the stars. Audience participation is greatly encouraged and laughing at bad star jokes is required for admission. Always live! Always interactive! Always fun!

The Wolff Planetarium celebrated its 5oth birthday in 2000. Located at the Trailside Nature Center in Burnet Woods, the Spitz A-1 planetarium was purchased in April 1950, and has been educating and entertaining the Cincinnati community ever since.

Attending a show at the Wolff Planetarium is a unique experience for children and adults of all ages. We enthusiastically maintain our claim as the lowest-tech planetarium in the universe. With maximum seating for 20, the atmosphere is intimate. All presentations are live and interactive - no boring recordings of Leonard Nimoy. And as always, audience participation, questions, and laughing at bad star jokes are strongly encouraged.

Groups of 10-20 individuals can schedule special private programs at Wolff Planetarium by calling Bettman Preserve at 321-6070.  The prices for private programs are as follows:

Number of People in Group and Cost