Plan Your Visit FAQ
Do you offer ASTC reciprocal membership?
We offer discounted admission (including 2 planetarium shows) to members of local ASTC institutions within 90 miles of the Center. Members of ASTC institutions that are 90 miles from Chabot receive FREE admission and 1 planetarium show. Residency requirements do apply. Your museum membership card and ID are required.
Do you have a coat check?
Coats, umbrellas and bags may be stored in our Coat Room. Items stored in the coat room are unattended. The Coat Check is located by the planetarium entrance on the main floor of the Spees Building.
Am I allowed to take photos at the Center?
During your visit, you're welcome to take photos and video for your personal use only. Photography is not permitted during planetarium shows.
Do you have a cafe?
The Skyline Bistro is open during our regulars hours. Vistors are also welcomed to bring their lunches and eat in the café or courtyard. Food and drinks are not allowed in exhibitions halls, the observatory, planetarium and theater.
Where is the closest ATM?
We currently do not have a ATM onsite. The Skyline Bistro accepts Visa, Mastercard and Discover. The Box Office accepts Visa and Mastercard. The Starry Night Gift Shop accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover and AMEX.
Are you a smoke-free facility?
For the health and safety of our guests and the protection of the surrounding parklands, smoking is prohibited at the Center including outdoor areas.
What is "Will Call" all about?
Go to the Front Desk to pick up will call tickets. Picture identification is required for Will Call pick up. Visitors may also leave tickets in Will Call at the Front Desk.
Can I re-enter the Center if I forgot something?
General Admission is valid for the entire day. For re-entry to the Center, show your admission ticket at the front desk.
What is your Planetarium seating policy?
Seating in the planetarium begins 10 minutes prior to show time. Chabot Members receive priority seating in the planetarium. For the safety of visitors, late seating is not permitted once the show has started.
What are your Box Office hours?
The Box office is open during the Center’s regular public hours. Admission may be purchased up to an hour before closing. Visitors may apply their admission toward a membership at the Box Office. Membership transfers must be completed before the Center closes.
Do you have parking for my camper?
The Parking Structure has a maximum clearance of 7 feet. Campers Vehicles with a clearance of higher than 7 feet may park in the Staff Lot near the Observatory Complex. Follow the signs to the Observatory to the Staff Lot.