Herrett Center for Arts and Science
A college museum combines southern Idaho archaeology and anthropology with natural-history collections, a public observatory, and a major dome theater.
Artwork inspired by Mary Hallock Foote
The Herrett Center is several institutions sharing one visit. Anthropology and archaeology galleries emphasize long human histories of the Americas, while natural-history material and rotating exhibitions connect objects to research. Read provenance and cultural attribution carefully; a beautiful vessel or textile is most informative when its community, use, and collection history remain visible.
The Faulkner Planetarium and Centennial Observatory run on schedules separate from ordinary gallery access. Build the trip around a specific show or observing session, then use the museum before or after rather than assuming every component operates continuously. Evening astronomy depends on weather, darkness, and staffing.
- Campus
- College of Southern Idaho
- Features
- Dome theater and observatory
- Allow
- 1½–3 hours
Quick guide
- Choose first
- Planetarium or observatory timing
- Look closer
- Object provenance and context
Read the collection at Herrett Center for Arts and Science
- Opening question
- Begin with select a planetarium show or observing session.
- Choose first
- Use the galleries to establish cultural and scientific context.
- Evidence to test
- Check provenance, community, material, and use.
- Conditions check
- Check the operating schedule: Museum and planetarium schedules vary by day and academic calendar.
Good to know
Gallery, planetarium, and observatory schedules are separate. Planetarium doors close on the hour with no late entry; arrive 10 minutes early. Observatory events are weather-dependent. Call 208-732-6655 to confirm wheelchair seating and accommodations.
Notice these
- College of Southern Idaho
- Dome theater and observatory
- Use the galleries to establish cultural and scientific context.