Not Your Normal Trip to Chicago is a series of fun things to do in Chicago with your family and friends while you're here for PHP Tek 2027 (April 27–29, 2027). Whether you're extending your stay, bringing the family along, or looking for something to do with fellow attendees after the sessions wrap up, each post in this series highlights a place to eat, explore, or enjoy that goes beyond the usual tourist list.

Let's go from the cloud to the cosmos. The Adler Planetarium is a museum devoted to astronomy and astrophysics, and it sits on a stunning spot on the shore of Lake Michigan. It's a great mix of science, history, and scenery for anyone spending extra time in Chicago around PHP Tek.

Open since 1930

The Adler was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler and is located at 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, on the northeast tip of Northerly Island. It holds one of the largest collections of astrolabes in the world, including the most sophisticated scientific instrument of the Middle Ages, which could be used to find the time and directions. Historical instruments and handmade telescopes make for a surprisingly good look at how people have been exploring the sky for centuries.

What to see

The Adler's dome shows are the main draw. Its current dome show, Worlds Beyond Earth, explores Saturn's rings, buried oceans, volcanoes, and the search for life on other worlds. The museum also has exhibits and spaces including the Doane Observatory, which hosts scheduled events. The Adler is also part of the Chicago CityPASS, which bundles several attractions, if you're planning a longer trip. Schedules, hours, and ticket prices are on the Adler Planetarium website, so check there before you go.

Perfect for families and friends

This is an easy yes for families. Kids love the space shows, and adults will find plenty of fascinating details. For developers, it's a fun way to step away from the screen and look at some very big problems. Gather a few friends from the conference, grab tickets for a show, and compare theories about what's out there.

Pair it with Museum Campus

The Adler sits on the lakefront by the Museum Campus, so it combines well with other attractions in the area. You could pair it with our Griffin Museum of Science and Industry post for a full science-focused trip, though the two are a drive apart. The lakefront walk alone is worth the trip, with skyline views along the water.

Getting there from Rosemont

Take the CTA Blue Line from Rosemont to the Loop (about 36 minutes), then use a transit connection or a short rideshare to the Museum Campus. Check the map below, and leave some extra travel time.

Extend your stay

If you're thinking of making this a longer trip, the Adler is a lovely anchor for a family day. Plan it for the weekend after the conference ends on April 29. Ask about group room rates at the Sheraton, and take advantage of the free airport shuttle.

What makes a visit special

Beyond the shows, the Adler is a place for slowing down. The collection of historical instruments gives you a sense of how much effort people put into measuring the sky long before computers. Take your time with the astrolabes and old telescopes, and then step outside for a view across the lake. It's the kind of quiet, thoughtful break that helps you recharge after a busy conference day.

If you want to plan around an event, check the museum's calendar for evening programs and special nights. These can be a fun option for a group of attendees looking for something a little different after dinner. Chicago also offers bundled attraction passes, so if you plan to visit several places from this series, look at whether a pass fits your trip.

Where it is

Open Adler Planetarium in Google Maps

Join us at PHP Tek 2027

PHP Tek is the longest-running independent PHP conference in North America, with multi-track programming, hands-on workshops, and a community that has been gathering for 19 years. The conference runs April 27–29 at the Sheraton O'Hare in Rosemont, with a free airport shuttle and discounted rooms for attendees. Get tickets, see the schedule, and ask about group rates at phptek.io. We'll see you in Chicago!