Sky Observing 101: Where To Go Stargazing In Chicago

Header Image: A green tent on sand with silhouetted trees and a blue night sky with stars. Image Credit: Nick Lake 2020
Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in June 2019 and was updated with more current information.

Interested in observing the night sky but not sure where to start? No worries! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best midwest stargazing and sky observing destinations in or near Chicago. We have even included a few additional quick reference and stargazing resources you can use as your guide to astronomy observing with the naked eyes or even a telescope.

Places To Observe In Chicago

1. The 606 Trail

The western entrance of the 606 Trail at 1801 N. Ridgeway, Chicago, IL is relatively clear of buildings, though not clear of light pollution. The 606 is a 2.7 mile elevated rail trail running east-west on the northwest side of Chicago and is open until 11:00 pm daily.

2. Forest Preserve District Of Cook County’s Palos Preserves

Did you know the largest Urban Night Sky Place in the world is in Illinois? Located in Willow Springs, IL, the Palos Preserves stretches 6,662 acres. This area emits far less light than downtown Chicago. The Forest Preserve works to actively preserve and protect the local nighttime environment. 

The Adler Planetarium and Adler Teens from our Far Horizons Stratonauts program helped get Palo Preserves this historic designation! The Palos Preserves closes at sunset, however, the area is sometimes open for astronomy events.

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County also has several parks that offer overnight camping. Check the FPDCC website for available dates and overnight camping rates. Some locations are closed on certain days of the year or during certain months of the year. All other forest preserve locations generally close at sunset, but it is best to check with individual parks for closing times.

3. Chicago Lakefront

Locations along the shore of Lake Michigan looking east offer slightly darker skies. Recommended locations include: 

• Loyola Beach
• Foster Beach
• Montrose Beach
• Rainbow Beach Park
• 12th Street Beach
• Margaret Burroughs Beach and Park
• Oakwood-41st Street Beach
•  57th Street Beach
• 63rd Street Beach
• South Shore Beach
• Calumet Park

4. The Doane Observatory At The Adler Planetarium

Located on the Museum Campus at 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, the Doane Observatory can be found directly behind the Adler Planetarium and open for special events and during most Wednesdays for Adler at Night, depending on weather.

5. ‘Scopes In The City

‘Scopes in the City is an Adler program where astronomy educators and volunteers bring the museum—and the universe—a little closer to Chicagoland residents! Each of these free telescope observing events, hosted at local libraries, parks, and other locations, provides more opportunities for telescope observing at night and during the daytime.

All ’Scopes in the City events are free and weather permitting. You can get updates about upcoming sky observing opportunities by subscribing to our Adler Events email list or by joining the ‘Scopes with the Adler Facebook group.

Places to Observe In The Midwest 

For people living in cities like Chicago, we are used to high levels of sky glow and often can’t see more than a handful of stars with the naked eye. That is why we wanted to include a few midwest destinations that can provide an even more magnificent stargazing experience.

1. Illinois State Parks

Illinois State Parks that are a relatively easy drive from Chicago include:

• Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
• Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area
• Kankakee River State Park
• Starved Rock State Park
• Weinberg-King State Park
• Siloam Springs State Park
• Green River State Wildlife Area

Note: Those interested in visiting should check with individual parks to find out if campground sites are only available to those camping overnight.

2. Indiana Dunes State Park

Located less than 50 miles from downtown Chicago, the Indiana Dunes State Park is a great stop for anyone looking to escape the city to see the stars. We recommend checking the Indiana Dunes’ website for rules, regulations, hours, and fees.

3. Wisconsin State Parks

One of our favorite spots is the Richard Bong State Recreation area (open year-round until 11:00 pm). A vehicle admission sticker is required. Overnight camping (for a fee) is available.

4. IDA-Designated Dark Sky Park: Middle Fork River Forest Preserve

Did you know Illinois has an International Dark-Sky Association designated Dark Sky Park? Located about two hours south of Chicago, northeast of Champaign, IL, the Middle Fork River Forest Preserve is a great location to see a star-filled dark sky. The CCFPD has even more information about where to go, camping options, and more.

Astronomy Sky Observing Groups & Events

1. ‘Scopes At The Adler

Join our ‘Scopes At The Adler Facebook group for all potential upcoming telescope observing opportunities at the Planetarium.

2. Chicago Astronomer

The Chicago Park District conducts regular public observation sessions in parks throughout the city. Search “Chicago Astronomer” on the CPD site for upcoming events.

3. Naperville Astronomical Association

Naperville Astronomical Association hosts periodic free public events at their Astronomy Education Center in Naperville, IL, as well as daytime solar observing along the downtown Naperville Riverwalk.

4.The Calumet Astronomical Society

The Calumet Astronomical Society offers periodic free public events at the Thomas Conway Observatory in Lowell, Indiana, about an hour’s drive southeast of Chicago.

5. Lake County Astronomical Society

The Lake County Astronomical Society offers several observing events each year at public libraries in Lake (Illinois) and McHenry counties.

Astronomy & Stargazing Resources

• Telescope Resources: Looking to find a telescope that’s right for you? Read Choosing A Telescope for helpful information to guide your search!

• Chicagohenge Breakdown: Looking to catch the Chicagohenge phenomenon near each equinox? Read Understanding Chicagohenge to learn why this celestial alignment happens in Chicago and where you can see it.

• Spotting ISS: Looking to spot the ISS traversing across the sky? Read How To Spot the International Space Station before you look up.

• Observing Tips & Tricks: Looking to learn more about what you can see in our night sky? Read Sky Observing 101: What To See for information on eclipses, aurorae, the Moon, upcoming meteor showers, and more.

• Stargazing Books: Looking for stargazing books to read? Read Stargazing Resources: A Few Good Books for a few recommendations. 

Learn About Observing With Our Astronomy Educators

Before going on your next out-of-this-world night sky observing adventure, watch episodes of Sky Observers Hangout or Skywatch Wednesday to prepare! Learn how to observe upcoming cosmic happenings, enhance your astrophotography skills and see celestial objects through a telescope virtually with our astronomy educators.

Note: The information listed in this blog is subject to change without prior notice, so check with relevant local authorities regarding any required fees, overnight use, availability, etc. Practice safe sky observing at all times. Beware of any ground obstructions or other hazards in any location. Follow all national, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations. Stay off of private property unless you have the property owner’s expressed permission. The Adler Planetarium assumes no responsibility or liability for any injuries or damage sustained during any activities at any of these locations or events.