The Dearborn Observatory
2131 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208
Museums
The Dearborn Observatory is an astronomical observatory located on the Evanston campus of Northwestern University. The observatory was originally constructed in 1888, though an agreement between the university and the Chicago Astronomical Society.
The Dearborn Observatory is open for limited public viewing via the historic 18.5" refracting telescope every Friday night from 9-11pm. Advance reservations required.
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What's happening nearby...

Big Ten Football - Northwestern University
Lanny and Sharon Martin Stadium, Northwestern University • Sep 05 – Nov 22
The Northwestern Wildcats are back at a special location right on Lake Michigan this season! Watch Chicago's Big Ten Team and fall college football at its…
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Evanston Folk Festival
Dawes Park • Sep 06 – Sep 07
Enjoy a celebration of the rich folk music tradition at Evanston Folk Festival, held at the picturesque Dawes Park along Lake Michigan.
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An Evening with Patty Griffin & Rickie Lee Jones
Cahn Auditorium • Oct 28
Experience an unforgettable evening with Patty Griffin and Rickie Lee Jones, sharing the stage for a special night of powerful voices, masterful songwriting, and timeless storytelling.
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Evanston
The Block Museum is a dynamic, imaginative, and innovative teaching and learning resource for Northwestern and its surrounding communities.
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Evanston
Built in 1865 in Carpenter Gothic style, the Frances Willard House in Evanston was home and Woman’s Christian Temperance Union HQ, championing women’s rights, suffrage, temperance,…
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Halim Time and Glass Museum
Evanston
If you could collect anything in the world, what would it be? Bottle caps? Coins? Handbags? How about clocks? One suburban man and his family are…
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