Yerkes Observatory
Historic 1897 observatory, home to the world's largest refracting telescope and birthplace of modern astrophysics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tours are available and engaging.
Yerkes Observatory
Best Time
Tours are available and engaging.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1897 observatory, home to the world's largest refracting telescope and birthplace of modern astrophysics.
"A must-visit gem with passionate guides, offering an unforgettable journey through science and history."
Book the 'Space & Spaces' Tour
Highly recommended for an in-depth look at hidden areas and history. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring various spaces. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Refractor Telescope
Main Observatory Building
Marvel at the world's largest refracting telescope, a 60-foot marvel that's a centerpiece of astronomical history.
Space & Spaces Tour
Various Observatory Areas
Go behind the scenes to discover hidden areas and learn about the observatory's rich history and discoveries.
Architectural Grandeur
Observatory Building Exterior & Interior
Admire the Beaux Arts and Romanesque architecture, featuring intricate details and historical sculptures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Dress for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book the 'Space & Spaces' Tour
Highly recommended for an in-depth look at hidden areas and history. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring various spaces. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Tours
Check-in is required before your scheduled tour time. :stopwatch:
Explore the Grounds
The surrounding arboretum offers beautiful scenery and walking trails. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book the 'Space & Spaces' Tour
Highly recommended for an in-depth look at hidden areas and history. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring various spaces. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early for Tours
Check-in is required before your scheduled tour time. :stopwatch:
Explore the Grounds
The surrounding arboretum offers beautiful scenery and walking trails. :evergreen_tree:
Check for Special Events
Look out for unique events like the Glass Christmas Tree or stargazing nights. +1 :star:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Yerkes Observatory for its historical significance, impressive architecture, and the passionate, knowledgeable guides who bring its stories to life. The 'Space & Spaces' tour is a standout, offering an intimate look at the observatory's hidden gems and scientific legacy. While the facility requires some walking and navigating varied spaces, the overall experience is described as enriching and highly recommended.
"It is hard to imagine that just five years ago there were plans to tear this beautiful facility down and put up hundreds of condos! History would have been lost to greed and lack of respect for history and historical events. Over 180,000 glass photo plates of astronomical confirmations and discovers are housed there, some of which you can get a first hand look at when you take the behind the scenes hidden areas tour. My family and I enjoyed the hidden spaces tour guided by an enthusiastic member of the staff who explained the history of the building, it's criminal founder and all the astronomy that took place over the years all with a hillbilly humor! He was genuinely proud of the conservation of the observatory. We also experienced two telescopes, one the largest refractory over 12,000 pounds that you could move with one hand! Plus you experienced the opening of the dome, it's rotation and lifted by the largest elevator that brings you up to the telescope and then back down. You will have to walk a bit and be willing to climb spiral stair cases, bend under pipes and go in and out of AC to some warm cramped spaces, but it was all worth the time, about 2 hours and the money, a personalized tour. We would do it again and want to see more spaces!"
m b
"The space & spaces tour was life-changing. Ken was an incredible tour guide — you can see how passionate he and the rest of the staff are about the history and future of this observatory.
I enthusiastically recommend getting tickets this tour!! We went at 2:30pm on a Saturday with a large 40+ person tour group, but it felt so intimate.
Thank you so much for your knowledge and for keeping the observatory lights on. I can’t wait to be back."
Lynn Sutherland
"Stunning observatory, wonderful tour. Our guide Walter oozed knowledge and passion. He explained the history and architecture of the observatory in an engaging way, interspersed with amazing stories and humor. Rebecca, one of the volunteers, also accompanied us on our tour and was very knowledgeable and friendly - really appreciated being able to throw space questions at her and learn a bunch. The observatory itself is just wow. The history, the discoveries made here, it is beyond belief. Not to mention the building is beautiful - everywhere you look there is ornate detail and it all carries such significance that will be explained to you on your tour. Overall, cannot recommend this place enough. Do a tour!"
Max Rosen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yerkes Observatory is located in Williams Bay, Wisconsin, near Lake Geneva. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors combine a trip to Yerkes with other attractions in the Lake Geneva area.
Yes, Yerkes Observatory is a prominent landmark in Williams Bay. GPS navigation systems will easily guide you to the location.
For exploring Williams Bay and the surrounding Lake Geneva area, driving is the most convenient option. Public transportation is limited.
Yes, Yerkes Observatory is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Chicago, making it a feasible day trip for those interested in astronomy and history.
Yerkes Observatory is close to Lake Geneva, offering boat tours, charming shops, and restaurants. Elephant Rocks in Williams Bay is also a nearby natural attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary depending on the type of tour you book. The 'Space & Spaces' tour is highly recommended and offers a comprehensive experience. Check the official Yerkes Observatory website for current pricing and booking information.
It is strongly recommended to book your tour tickets in advance, especially for popular tours like 'Space & Spaces,' as they can sell out.
Operating hours and tour availability can vary. It's best to check the official Yerkes Observatory website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Yes, Yerkes Observatory offers various tours, including general tours of the grounds and the main telescope, as well as the highly-rated 'Space & Spaces' tour for a more in-depth experience.
While you can walk the grounds and admire the exterior architecture, guided tours are essential for experiencing the interior of the observatory and learning about its history and scientific significance.
🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the Great Refractor, the world's largest refracting telescope, housed within the historic observatory building.
This tour provides access to behind-the-scenes areas, offering a deeper understanding of the observatory's history, scientific discoveries, and unique architecture.
The observatory involves walking, spiral staircases, and some tight spaces. While some areas may be challenging, the staff is generally accommodating. It's advisable to contact them directly regarding specific accessibility needs.
Photography is generally allowed in designated areas, but it's always best to check with your tour guide or staff for specific restrictions, especially in sensitive scientific areas.
Known as the 'birthplace of modern astrophysics,' Yerkes has been instrumental in astronomical research since its opening in 1897. Albert Einstein and Carl Sagan are among notable figures who have visited.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no dining facilities within the observatory itself. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks or plan to eat in the nearby town of Williams Bay or Lake Geneva.
The towns of Williams Bay and Lake Geneva offer a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit different tastes and budgets.
While there are no designated picnic tables on the grounds, visitors have been known to bring chairs and enjoy snacks on the grass.
Williams Bay has several local spots, and the larger Lake Geneva area offers a wider selection of dining experiences, from casual to upscale.
The Lake Geneva area boasts a diverse culinary scene, including American classics, Italian, seafood, and more, catering to various preferences.
📸 📸 Photography
The observatory building itself, with its unique architecture, the grounds, and the Great Refractor telescope are prime subjects. Drone photography is also popular for aerial views.
Yes, photography of the telescopes is generally permitted, especially during tours. Capturing the scale of the Great Refractor is a must.
While general photography is allowed, always confirm with your tour guide or staff about any specific areas where photography might be restricted for preservation or scientific reasons.
Visitors often capture the grand architecture, the impressive telescopes, and the scenic grounds. Drone shots offer a unique perspective of the entire facility.
While the observatory itself is for research, the surrounding dark skies in Wisconsin can be good for amateur astrophotography. Special night tours might offer opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your kids to ask questions during the tour; the guides are often passionate and knowledgeable, making the history and science come alive. While there are no specific play areas, the expansive grounds offer space to run around, and the unique architecture provides plenty of visual interest. Remember to book tours in advance, as they are the best way to experience the observatory's interior.
🔭 Astronomy Enthusiasts
The 'Space & Spaces' tour is a must-do, offering deep dives into the observatory's scientific contributions and behind-the-scenes access. Beyond the main telescope, the observatory's historical archives and the stories of the scientists who worked there add layers of fascination. Consider attending any special stargazing events or lectures if available, to further immerse yourself in the wonders of the cosmos from this iconic location.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
The 'Space & Spaces' tour not only delves into the scientific history but also highlights the architectural ingenuity and the building's construction. Learn about the observatory's founder, Charles Yerkes, and the significant role it played in scientific advancement. The sheer scale of the building and its historical context make it a compelling visit for anyone interested in the intersection of science, history, and design.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Astronomical Discovery
Notable figures like Albert Einstein, Carl Sagan, and Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar have walked its halls, contributing to its rich scientific legacy. The observatory's primary mission was to advance our understanding of the universe through cutting-edge technology and dedicated research.
Despite facing potential demolition plans in the past, dedicated efforts have preserved this vital scientific landmark. Today, Yerkes continues to inspire with its history, architecture, and ongoing commitment to science education and public engagement.
The Magnificent Great Refractor
Its sheer size is awe-inspiring, and the engineering required to operate it, including a massive elevator system to bring observers to the eyepiece, is a testament to late 19th-century innovation. Operating the Great Refractor involves opening the observatory's massive dome, a process that itself is a spectacle. Visitors on tours often get to witness this impressive feat of engineering. The telescope's immense weight and delicate balance require expert handling, showcasing the precision involved in astronomical observation.
Experiencing the Great Refractor, even just by standing beneath it or seeing the dome open, offers a tangible connection to the history of astronomy. It's a reminder of the dedication and ingenuity that drove early astronomical exploration and continues to fuel scientific curiosity today.
Architectural Marvels and Hidden Gems
The building itself is as much a work of art as the celestial observations it facilitates. Intricate carvings and ornate details adorn the exterior and interior, reflecting the grandeur of its era. Beyond the main telescope room, the 'Space & Spaces' tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the observatory's less-seen areas. This includes laboratories, historical archives, and other functional spaces that reveal the daily life and work of astronomers.
Walking through these spaces, visitors can appreciate the thoughtful design that went into every aspect of the observatory, from the grand public areas to the functional scientific wings. The blend of historical significance and architectural beauty makes Yerkes a captivating destination for both science enthusiasts and architecture admirers.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit