Explore Your Way

Endless adventures await you this winter at The Morton Arboretum.

Explore Your Way

There are so many ways to spend the day at the Arboretum—how will you spend yours?

Whether you’re looking for inspiration in the wintry woodlands, a cozy space to warm up with loved ones, or new ways for kids to play outside in nature, there’s so much to enjoy this winter at The Morton Arboretum.

A mother exploring the Children's Garden with her daughter in winter.

Explore A Winter Wonderland

Winter at the Arboretum lets you explore a transformed landscape. Visitors can hike along 16 miles of trails through snowy woodlands or enjoy the enchanting vistas in comfort by driving along the nine miles of paved roadways. When snow falls, cross-country skis and snowshoes are available to rent in the Visitor Center, with special marked trails guiding the way through the grounds.

Fun Things To Do With Kids

Throughout the winter, there are many kid-friendly events hosted at the Arboretum. Sample an array of chocolates and shop handcrafted artisanal products during the annual Chocolate Weekend, Saturday, February 1, and Sunday, February 2. Enjoy the new Juniper Junction model train event Saturday, February 15 through Sunday, February 23. There are events to delight children of all ages all winter long.

Photograph of visitors enjoying a model train event at The Morton Arboretum

Find Comfort and Connection

The Morton Arboretum is the perfect place to relax and connect with loved ones. Visit the Sterling Morton Library or enjoy hot beverages and treats with friends and family at the Ginkgo Café. Enjoy weekend brunch service at the Ginkgo Restaurant and take in the inspiring vistas of the Arboretum in winter.

Group book discussion at the Sterling Morton Library.

Enjoy Winter Classes

Throughout the winter, many engaging educational classes and relaxing wellness programs are held at the Arboretum’s Thornhill Education Center. Explore the list of upcoming programs online to start your journey toward learning a new skill or adopting a practice of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness.

Yoga instructor Natalie Schilke leads an indoor yoga class at The Morton Arboretum in the Founders Room at Thornhill Education Center.

Art Exhibition

Explore the large-scale sculptural exhibition, Of the Earth

Learn more

Oculus, sculptures from Of the Earth, freshly covered in snow surrounded by lively trees

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for more answers? Visit the FAQ or contact us directly.

I want to visit with a group. Are there any special discounts available?

Yes, group rates can be offered on orders of 15 or more people purchasing tickets in a single transaction.

Purchasing group admission allows access to a discounted rate and makes check-in at the gatehouse easier than with general admission. Group admission can also be planned, purchased, and reserved well in advance, allowing groups the opportunity to finalize their plans well ahead of time.

Learn more about purchasing group admission.
Are wheelchairs or strollers available for loan?

Manual wheelchairs are available for loan. Strollers are currently unavailable. Personal strollers are welcome.
Will I have unlimited time to explore? Or is there a time limit?

Once admitted, everyone may stay and explore the Arboretum until it closes at sunset.
Who do I contact if I have trouble getting tickets online?

For assistance, please email the ticket line at tickets@mortonarb.org and we will respond to you as soon as possible.

Explore Your Way