Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

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.

How to find us?

Back to Listings

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…

Read more about Big Ten Football - Northwestern University

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.

Read more about Evanston Folk Festival

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.

Read more about An Evening with Patty Griffin & Rickie Lee Jones

You might also be interested...

Block Museum of Art

Evanston

The Block Museum is a dynamic, imaginative, and innovative teaching and learning resource for Northwestern and its surrounding communities.

Read more about Block Museum of Art

Frances Willard House

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,…

Read more about Frances Willard House

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…

Read more about Halim Time and Glass Museum

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.