The Morton Arboretum strives to provide an excellent experience for all who visit—including ensuring optimal entry when you arrive on-site. We look forward to seeing you!
Timed-Entry Admission Process
Guests
In order to provide a streamlined and expedited entry experience, all guests without an active membership must obtain timed-entry admission online prior to arrival at the Arboretum. Reserving admission takes just a few minutes and can be completed from a smartphone or computer.
Timed-entry admission has greatly reduced wait times at the gatehouse, helping guests secure timely entry. It has also eliminated traffic backups onto the roadway leading into the Arboretum, Route 53.
It will provide you with more predictable access for entry and parking, especially on busy days. We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy more than 1,700 acres of tree-filled landscapes—without delay!
Members
Members may enter the Arboretum at any time during open hours, 7:00 a.m. to sunset, on any day by showing their current physical or digital membership card at the gatehouse. When bringing guests on a visit to the Arboretum, members can pre-purchase discounted guest passes (up to two $5 admissions per visit for guests beyond membership level) online prior to their visit, or purchase them via credit card at the gatehouse (cash is not currently accepted). Learn about becoming a member.
Special Admission Hours on October 21
Please note special general admission hours on Saturday, October 21. The last general admission timed-entry ticket time on Saturday, October 21, will be 10:30 a.m., with the last entry at the Gatehouse at 11:00 a.m. Members may enter until 11:00 a.m. Members and guests may stay as long as they would like to enjoy their visits. Only Cider and Ale Festival ticket holders and those attending private events will be able to enter at the Gatehouse after 11:00 a.m. Be sure to get your Cider and Ale Festival tickets before they are gone!
Visit Tip
While admission can be reserved in a matter of minutes, it is recommended to reserve a few days in advance. Popular timeslots may sell out, especially on days with beautiful weather and/or special events.
How Can We Help?
If you need assistance, please contact us: tickets@mortonarb.org. More information about timed-entry admission is included in the Timed-Entry FAQ.
Entering the Arboretum
Guests: After you secure a timed-entry ticket online, it will be sent electronically to the email address provided in the transaction process. You can either print it out or show it on your phone to the gatehouse attendant when you arrive.
Members: Members may enter The Morton Arboretum at any time without timed-entry passes by showing their current physical or digital membership card at the gatehouse.
Companion Admission
A member or guest who requires the help of a companion (whether paid or unpaid) in order to visit, may reserve one complimentary admission for their companion when placing their own paid ticket reservation. For group visits or field trips, please contact the Registrar at registrar-ed@mortonarb.org or 630-719-2468.
Plan Your Day
To prepare for a rich and satisfying experience at the Arboretum, find maps and seek out places to visit. Learn about accessibility, dining and shopping, events, and things to do.