SAN ANTONIO, Texas — A new immersive attraction is preparing to launch visitors beyond Earth without ever leaving downtown San Antonio.

Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience will open July 2 at The Shops at Rivercenter, transforming scientific data and astronomical discoveries into an interactive journey through the cosmos.

Developed in collaboration with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, the experience allows guests to explore galaxies, black holes, exoplanets and stellar phenomena through a free-roam environment designed to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging.

Located on the lower level of Rivercenter, the approximately 40-minute attraction combines immersive visuals, sound and interactive storytelling to place visitors inside some of the universe’s most awe-inspiring environments.

“Smithsonian Starstruck reflects years of thoughtful collaboration across the Smithsonian,” said Denise Elliott, acting president of Smithsonian Enterprises. “By working closely with SAO and Fever, we’re extending Smithsonian science and storytelling into an immersive format that reaches new audiences while supporting our mission.”

Journey Through the Cosmos

The experience begins atop the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Whipple Observatory, where guests are introduced to a cosmic guide named Astro before embarking on a journey through deep space.

Visitors travel alongside some of humanity’s most powerful observatories, including the Hubble Space Telescope, James Webb Space Telescope and Chandra X-ray Observatory.

Along the way, guests race through the Milky Way, drift among distant galaxies, examine extreme exoplanets, witness the life cycle of stars and approach the edge of a supermassive black hole.

Built using real astronomical data, the attraction aims to blur the line between education and entertainment, allowing visitors to experience scientific discoveries through sight, sound and movement.

“This project demonstrates how immersive experiences can make complex scientific ideas more tangible and engaging,” said Randall Smith, associate director for science at the Center for Astrophysics at SAO. “It’s exciting to see astronomical data translated into an experience that encourages curiosity and exploration.”

Celebrating Scientific Discovery

Organizers say the attraction highlights centuries of scientific innovation and exploration, tracing humanity’s understanding of the universe from the Big Bang to the formation of galaxies, stars and planetary systems.

Rather than simply observing the cosmos, visitors are encouraged to see themselves as part of an ongoing story of discovery.

The San Antonio opening marks the latest addition to Fever’s growing portfolio of immersive cultural experiences designed to connect audiences with science, history and art through technology-driven storytelling.

Accessibility Features

Developed in collaboration with the Smithsonian Office of Visitor Accessibility, the experience includes a variety of accessibility accommodations, including captions, visual descriptions, assistive listening devices, wheelchair-optimized viewing areas, complimentary companion access and monthly low-sensory days.

Trained staff and fully accessible venue spaces are intended to ensure a welcoming experience for visitors of all abilities.

Know Before You Go

What: Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience
When: Opens Thursday, July 2, 2026
Where: The Shops at Rivercenter (Lower Level)
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
Recommended Age: 10 and older

Tickets are available through Fever and additional information can be found at Smithsonian Starstruck San Antonio.