The Morton Arboretum strives to provide an excellent experience for all who visit—including ensuring optimal entry when you arrive on-site. As always, we follow state and local public health guidelines. 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 on weekdays (Monday through Friday, with some exceptions) without timed-entry passes by showing their current physical or digital membership card at the gatehouse. Advance timed-entry passes for members will continue to be required prior to arrival on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays that occur on weekdays, to ensure faster, predictable entry on busier days. Learn about becoming a member.
Timed-entry passes are required on the following federal holidays:
- New Year’s Day, January 1
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day, third Monday in January
- President’s Day/Washington’s Birthday, third Monday in February
- Memorial Day, last Monday in May
- Juneteenth National Independence Day, June 19
- Independence Day, July 4
- Labor Day, first Monday in September
- Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day, second Monday in October
- Veteran’s Day, November 11
- Thanksgiving Day, fourth Thursday in November
- Christmas Day, December 25
Thornhill Society and President’s Council members will continue to be able to enter without a timed-ticket reservation any day of the week by showing their membership card. Interested in joining the President’s Council or Thornhill Society? Learn more.
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 on weekdays (Monday through Friday, with some exceptions) 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.
Support the Arboretum
We are thankful for the strong and generous support from donors and members who have helped the Arboretum weather the significant financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic. But there is still important work to do to help trees. Please make a gift to support the Arboretum. Every contribution makes a difference and is greatly appreciated. You can also become a member or renew your membership to continue your support.