As Yerkes has become a space at the confluence of culture, art, and science, we have so much going on. From our speaker series to our roster of tours to our star parties, keep up to date by getting on our email list, following us on social media, and visiting us in person. We're forever evolving into a place of diverse programs for kids and adults alike. Writers, artists, sculptors, photographers, musicians, engineers, chemists, tech innovators, and astronomers are collaborating to understand how science inspires the arts and how the arts inspire cosmic discovery. We're eager to work together at this epicenter of BIG IDEAS. What was a dormant institution a couple years ago and a construction site under full restoration just last year is now a vibrant place filled with enthusiasm, focus, and new voices in conversation. Discover what’s happening in Cobb & Hale's three domes and the junction of Olmsted ellipses. More importantly, discover how you can tap into the energy.
We’re excited to announce the lineup for our 2026 Speaker Series! • Recent Poet Laureate of Wisconsin, Nicholas Gulig, comes for a discussion of his vibrant life, the PBS Wisconsin documentary Welcome Poets of which he’s the subject, and a reading of some of his transformative poems on Thursday, June 4th at 6pm. • We’re over the…
This event is sold out! Join us for our yearly Messier Marathon open house on Friday, March 13 from 8pm – 10pm! We’re thrilled to once again partner with the Milwaukee Astronomical Society, where they’ll provide an educational presentation about Messier objects and marathons, hands-on educational activities, and Messier observing outside on the South lawn…
2025 was a truly remarkable year at Yerkes. We reached exciting new milestones across our programs, expanded the scope and impact of our science and education initiatives, and continued the careful restoration of our historic building and surrounding grounds. Together, these efforts reflect a year defined by discovery, stewardship, and meaningful community engagement. Watch our…
Calling all K-12 educators! We’re pleased to announce that we will once again host our popular educator professional development workshops during Summer 2026. Participants in this event will tour the observatory, connect with regional like-minded educators, learn how to facilitate and receive materials for a hands-on activity, and attend a lunch-and-learn session that explores techniques…
We’re so excited to welcome you all for our 2026 Open House season! This year, there will be a couple of changes to this popular event. Our Open Houses will still include open exploration of the observatory, a scavenger hunt with prizes, engaging demos and hands-on activities, a chance to see the world’s largest refracting…