The best observatories and planetariums in Victoria

With a 16m domed ceiling, reclining seats, a 7.1 surround sound system and a full-dome video projection, the Planetarium inside of Scienceworks is always a huge hit. On Friday nights, it transforms into an adults-only cinema, with films transporting viewers to outer space, coral reefs and black holes. There are two screenings a night, and you can enjoy a drink from the bar while taking in the planetary surroundings. 

Built in the '70s by Monash Uni for its Science Faculty, the Mount Burnett Observatory faced closure in 2011. Thankfully, a few members of the Astronomical Society Victoria banded together with a professional astronomer and saved it. Since then, it's enjoyed a new lease on life as a community astronomical observatory. Become a member or attend the observatory's public viewing nights, and sign your kids up for the Young Observers Group for junior astronomers. The observatory also hosts heaps of events, and you can keep up-to-date on them through the website. 

Located in the heart of the Royal Botanic Gardens is a massive observatory that was built in 1863. While it was decommissioned in 1945, it has remained in use as an astronomical observatory. Stroll through the gardens then head over for science seminars or a tour that takes you through the history of astronomy in Melbourne.

With the financial support of pioneer James Oddie, who is often referred to as the father of Ballarat, this observatory opened its doors to the public in 1886. It's still open now more than a century later, and you can head to the observatory building to look through both modern and historical telescopes to see the planets and the stars. The site also features a 3D movie theatre, cafe, science shop and one of the most comprehensive collections of astronomical instruments in regional Australia.