Centennial Planetarium, Planetarium in Calgary, Canada.
Centennial Planetarium is a planetarium in Calgary, Canada, originally constructed with a 65-foot domed screen in the celestial theatre section. The structure features two distinct wings surrounding a central area and now serves as an art gallery hosting changing exhibitions throughout the year.
The building opened in 1967 as part of Canada's centennial celebration, after architectural firm McMillan Long and Associates won a design competition. It later housed the Hangar Flight Museum between 1971 and 1985 before being transformed into the Science Centre.
The building shows brutalist design through its raw concrete surfaces and angled walls that catch the eye immediately upon arrival. This architectural approach shapes how visitors experience the space and sets it apart from other museum structures in the city.
The site is accessible on foot and the area offers room to explore the exterior architecture and renovated interior spaces. Visitors should allow one to two hours to view current exhibitions and explore the different sections of the building.
The building has received multiple awards for its architectural design and stands as one of Canada's finest examples of brutalist architecture. Its unusual form with non-orthogonal walls was revolutionary at its creation and continues to fascinate visitors today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
