Winter Activities At The Adler
Holiday lights? We’ve got a sky full of them. This winter, let the stars guide you to the Adler to experience the wonders of the universe and extraordinary views of Chicago’s icy skyline, from the comfort of our museum.
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Celebrate The Holiday Season At The Adler
A new immersive dome theater show, guided tours, hands-on activities, and more. We’re bringing you the wonders of space, no matter how cold it gets.
Things To Do
Skywatch Live: Holiday Edition
In this holiday-themed show, learn how to navigate by starlight, get to know the stars behind your favorite winter constellations.
Don’t forget to arrive early for a winter pre-show in the dome theater.
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You must purchase a Museum Entry +1 or +2 ticket to see a show as part of your visit. This holiday experience will run from November 28, 2025–January 4, 2026.
New Sky Show: Big Astronomy
Our newest dome theater show shares the story of the people and places who make big astronomy and big science happen.
Explore the extreme sites where astronomy takes place.
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You must purchase a Museum Entry +1 or +2 ticket to see a show as part of your visit.
Guided Tours In Our New Exhibit
For a limited-time exclusive experience, discover the intertwined history of astrology and astronomy in the exhibition Stars Aligned: Tracing the Story of Astronomy & Astrology, with guided 20-minute tours Tuesday–Sunday starting November 28.
This experience is included with museum entry from November 28–December 31; no additional purchase is required.
DIY: Star Studio Constellation Cards
Learn more about winter star formations and create your own constellation card to use as a festive gift tag.
Activities will run Tuesdays–Sundays from 10:00 am–2:00 pm and Wednesdays from 4:00 pm–8:00 pm in the Community Art Studio.
This experience is included with museum entry; no additional purchase is required.
Stargazers Hub Unlocked
This holiday season, join us for special hands-on experiences featuring our giant armillary sphere, star charts, and more, inspired by our newest exhibit, Stars Aligned.
When: Tuesday-Sunday
Where: Stargazers Hub, Lower Level
This experience is included with museum entry from November 28–December 31, no additional purchase is required.
Expanded Winter Hours
Find winter surprises around the museum, including winter-themed pre-shows in our dome theaters and hands-on experiences.
Experience everything the Adler has to offer, with expanded winter hours to help you and your whole family experience the wonders of the universe.
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Museum Entry +2
Wrap your trip up in a bow with your choice of two dome theater shows to pair with your all-access pass to the museum.
Includes entry to the museum with access to all exhibitions and experiences, PLUS your choice of two sky shows.
Museum Entry +1
May your visit be merry and bright with full museum access and your choice of one dome theater show.
Includes entry to the museum with access to all exhibitions and experiences, PLUS your choice of one sky show.
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Museum entry does not include parking or dome theater sky shows (unless otherwise noted).
Explore The Doane Observatory
