Learning Enrichment Engine
Illinois Association for Gifted Children and Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy have collaborated to help connect K-12 students with learning experiences around the state. Anyone can aid in our mission by submitting an event! Submissions will be processed and added to the searchable list of learning opportunities.
Explore Upcoming Opportunities
Adler Planetarium: Free Admission for Illinois Residents
Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 27, 2025
On Wednesdays
From 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm
The Adler Planetarium is free for Illinois residents (with proof of residency) every Wednesday evening from 4:00 pm–10:00 pm. Stop by after work or school, or for date night and enjoy everything the Adler has to offer at night, for free as part of our Illinois Resident Discount Days program. Reserve your free Museum Entry tickets and add on any sky shows for the full experience! Illinois residents may upgrade to a Museum Entry +2 pass at a discounted price and gain access to any of our breathtaking sky shows. You’ll be given an option to do this upon checkout. All tickets must be purchased online and in advance. All sales are final. Proof of residency will be required upon checkout. To show proof of residency, you can use a valid Illinois driver’s license or photo ID, Illinois student ID with photo, or a photo ID plus a document (utility bill, lease, etc.) that shows your name and Illinois address.
Shedd Aquarium: Illinois Resident Free Hours
Apr 8, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025
On Tuesdays
From 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
The Shedd Aquarium is happy to offer Illinois Resident Free Hours which include access to all exhibits and their seasonal Stingray Touch. Online ticket reservations are available with a $5 convenience fee per order. Alternatively, you can reserve tickets by phone with no convenience fee by calling 312-939-2438 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Central Time (CT). The Shedd Aquarium also provide free walk-up reservations; however, those are subject to availability and sell out quickly. Advance reservations are recommended due to the high demand for tickets. When visiting make sure to bring a valid state ID or driver's license that proves Illinois residency.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: Weekly Illinois Resident Free Days
Apr 10, 2025 - Dec 18, 2025
On Thursdays
From 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is pleased to offer weekly Free Days on every Thursday with proof of Illinois residency. Groups of 10 or more are not applicable for Free Day tickets. Information of the museum's exhibits and event dates are available on their website.
