5 ways the Washington Pavilion isn’t just for kids

This paid piece is sponsored by Washington Pavilion Management Inc.

Whether you’re a bit of a kid at heart – or an adult who could just really use an escape – there’s fun you might not be expecting waiting for you at the Washington Pavilion.

“Yes, this is an amazing place for kids and families, but increasingly we’re seeing plenty of adults without kids along having a great time here,” said Cameron Ostrom, director of sales and administration.

“And we’re definitely planning to add even more ways for the 18-and-older crowd to come in and enjoy themselves.”

There’s plenty to do already – if you know where to find it. Here are our top five ways for adults to check out the Washington Pavilion soon.

Immerse yourself in the outdoors — indoors

The new Sweetman Planetarium definitely isn’t just for kids.

Adults are loving this new high-tech addition to the Washington Pavilion – by far the most advanced planetarium of its kind in the region.

“Current films ‘Unseen Universe’ and ‘Wings Over Water’ are great ones for adults to see,” said Maddy Grogan, director of education and museums. “Stop in, grab some popcorn and ice cream, and enjoy the shows.”

And don’t miss upcoming special events related to the solar eclipse. On Saturday, April 6, see the new immersive film “Totality” at noon and 4 p.m. This film explores why a total solar eclipse has such a profound influence on those who witness this rare occurrence. Add to the fun with an activity to build your own solar eclipse viewer. Then, on the day of the eclipse, Monday, April 8, see “Totality” at 12:15 p.m. and live total eclipse streaming at 12:45 p.m., with complete visibility at 1:30 p.m.

“You’ll see the livestream in real time from a location that will see the eclipse at 100 percent, and you’ll be viewing it safely indoors,” Grogan said.

Plus, watch for additional planetarium programming ahead, including stargazing date nights, live space launches, select Hollywood film showings and more.

 Treat yourself to a lunch – or afternoon – break

Take a pause during a chaotic workday and stop by the Washington Pavilion for lunch, coffee or a snack.

The newly renovated cafe, The WP, has both rotating hot specials and customer favorites like delicious ready-made sandwiches and even has become a favorite spot to work remote.

“We want the downtown community and beyond to know The WP is open and waiting for them – no Pavilion admission needed,” Ostrom said. “If you’re looking for a quick but high-quality lunch, you have to give The WP a try. It’s fast and affordable, and you can be in and out. Or, you’re welcome to stay awhile, grab some coffee and work in a quiet and comfortable environment.”

Plus, there’s nothing wrong with an afternoon stop at Parlour House for a tasty treat to get you through your day. Bonus points if you walk from your downtown workplace!

“Parlour is open and available to the public as well, no admission needed,” Ostrom said. “You’ll find high-quality gourmet ice cream, with rotating specialty flavors, including gluten-free and dairy-free options!”

Embrace local to national art

 There’s always something new and worthy to check out at the Visual Arts Center, and this spring is no exception.

Grogan advises not to miss the “Oscar Howe Legacy Exhibition.”

“This is a collection of Oscar Howe pieces and some from his students too,” she said. “It is very well done and worth a visit.”

And, of course, you’ll want to catch the popular “WOMEN: A Century of Change” exhibition, which features more than 100 images from National Geographic archives. An ideal way to visit is at 5:30 p.m. April 10, when you can begin with a tour and then hear from a panel of local artists in the Belbas Theater at 6:30 p.m:

• Em Nguyen, photographic artist.
• Anna Reich, assistant professor of photography, Augustana University.
• Emily Spartz Weerheim, photojournalist and business owner.

“They absolutely will inspire a younger generation of women to be boundary-breaking history-makers in their own community,” Grogan said.

Buy tickets for this event here.

Have fun after hours

The Washington Pavilion increasingly hosts fun adults-only after-hours events, like Cosmos & Cocktails, which returns April 25.

“Our first one was a great success,” Grogan said. “It was so fun to see adults experience the Pavilion without kids.”

The April 25 event will include full access to the Visual Arts Center and Kirby Science Discovery Center from 6 to 9 p.m., including a curator tour of the National Geographic exhibition.

There also will be engineering challenges and the new planetarium film “Cities of the Future.”

This event is $20 for Pavilion members and only $25 if you’re not. Price includes museums access and one film showing. And don’t wait to buy your tickets online. The first event in January sold out!

Bring your work show on the road

Are you in charge of a work outing, networking event or other social gathering? You can reserve the Pavilion after hours and allow your group to let loose in the Science Center, take a private gallery tour or have your own showing at the planetarium.

“The Wells Fargo CineDome & Sweetman Planetarium is available for private personal or corporate events,” Ostrom said. “If you are looking for a unique place to bring clients, host internal employee appreciation events or host a speaker, then the planetarium is a perfect venue. Additionally, The WP is great for after-hours social gatherings where you need a private space and access to food and drink.”

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