Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium

I really enjoyed my visit to Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium in Buffalo this weekend! I went to see Mesmerica, a hypnotic show in the sky! It exceeded my expectations! The run time was just under an hour, and it was a perfect amount. It's a great way to relax and meditate, immersing yourself in the stunning 360-degree visuals above. The seating is very comfortable but limited in space. The overall sound and production were fantastic! No photos or videos are allowed. I purchased the VIP ticket to gain early access to seating, but I think any seat inside is a good one. I highly recommend seeing this show if you are looking for something unique to do. It's very family friendly. However, only children over six years are allowed. The Planetarium itself is beautifully maintained. It's easy enough to find if you follow the signs closely once entering The Buff State Campus. Lots of free parking in a lot right out front.

The company I work for sent me and some of my friends to the planetarium while I was in town visiting. It was such a lovely treat! We saw Lights of Winter: a seasonal sky tour. The program was so well thought out and included information about not just what is visible in darker skies or with special equipment, but what you can see and track yourself from Buffalo even with the light pollution. The director, Kevin, was quick on his toes and ready to respond to any interjection with wit and interesting facts. The environment was so cozy, and the hour-long program felt just right. Well worth the ticket price! Fun for an evening out with your sweetie or friends. The dome seats 45 people, so if you’re going with a larger group, be sure to plan ahead as the shows can easily sell out. Maybe book for the show that is two weeks out if trying to coordinate multiple smaller families/groups, or if you have a group large enough see about booking a special viewing. Let anyone you know that you are trying to coordinate going with to buy their tickets asap.

I had the pleasure of watching Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity last night, and it was easily one of the best planetarium programs I’ve ever seen; and I have seen many planetarium shows throughout my life. The presentation was visually stunning, immersive, and packed with fascinating insights/facts about these mysterious cosmic phenomena. Steve, our presenter, was knowledgeable and engaging—kind, patient, and happy to answer all questions. I truly hope this program becomes a staple at the planetarium. Black holes are some of the most intriguing and mind-bending objects in the universe, and this show does an incredible job of bringing their mysteries to life.

The purchasing experience, at the point of typing this, is awful. For me, what's worse, is the Planetarium personnel seem to be all too aware of the issues that first time visitors are going to face and have chosen not to take corrective action. So, I have some advice that I was told was being considered for the website which would make all that I'm typing here unnecessary. Please note: When purchasing your ticket: - You MUST use Eventbrite, although the website doesn't tell you that except for some very small print... - Then, when you buy the ticket you'll be told to create an account so you can access your ticket, but when you access the account you created you will only see the words "This is not your ticket" - Don't try to call - you will NOT be able to reach anyone. - In the end... you don't need the app , that you are told you must install.. you don't need a ticket... that you are told you MUST show.. you just, apparently, need to say your name at the door and it is as simple as that..although the website does not share this process or give any information and to repeat, the most disturbing part is the Planetarium folks are aware we are suffering, as I was told "...we get this a lot" and are choosing not to act, which to me, is explainable. This should be a five star review... because: One the show starts... It's just simply awesome!! You'll love it. The campus is great, the planetarium itself is awesome, you'll read all the "Comfortable seats" reviews.. have coffee before you go, it's so relaxing you might fall asleep and miss the amazing show and presentation by Kevin, the very talented and engaging director. I hope this review helps you avoided stress and discomfort that the team at the Planetarium have decided is something they want us to continue experiencing...at least, as of the typing of this . Thanks in advance Kevin and team for updating the ticket buying process documentation on the website for all of us who are so excited to see your show!

We last minute checked out the planetarium for any special holiday shows. We were not disappointed. They are playing two shows this weekend (although we saw the last showing of The Longest Night tonight). They are still showing two matinees tomorrow, 12/22, of Let it Snow, an animated holiday music show. Our 6 yo really enjoyed the pre-show talk about the stars in our night sky and the show was lovely. The presenter was knowledgeable and very personable and took time to give us telescope recommendations after the show. They have new shows starting next weekend, so check out their website. They are in a temporary facility in Buckham Hall at Buffalo State College. I rated it a 4 only because the folding chairs were uncomfortable. We look forward to the new facility which looks beautiful.