Argonne National Laboratory

Plan Your Day at the Open House

Argonne Open House on Saturday, June 27, 2026

We’re excited to welcome you to Argonne for a day of discovery, connection, and a behind-the-scenes look at the science shaping our world. The Open House will be full of indoor and outdoor experiences held within the lab’s 2.7- square mile campus. Visitors should wear comfortable clothes and shoes and dress for the day’s weather forecast. Argonne’s Open House is a rain-or-shine event. 

Plan Your Day

Learn More:

Getting Around Campus

Please check your ticket and ensure you arrive at your assigned entry gate. Visitors will receive an Open House guide, including a map, upon arrival. 

Argonne’s campus sidewalk system is accessible for pedestrians, strollers and people using mobility devices, including wheelchairs. All Open House activities are wheelchair accessible.

You must have your QR code you received in your registration confirmation email digitally or printed out to enter campus. All visitors, vehicles, and bags entering the Argonne campus during the Open House are subject to security screening conducted by Argonne security personnel. Visitors may be asked to open trunks or other storage areas before being directed to a designated parking lot. Reentry is not permitted.

To support movement across campus, Argonne will operate three shuttle routes connecting key event locations. Accessible shuttles equipped with wheelchair lifts will also be available. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, as many areas of the event are best experienced on foot.

What to Bring

Visitors age 18 and older should bring a government-issued photo identification. Identification may be requested by event staff or security personnel.  

Argonne is not responsible for theft of any personal property. We recommend you leave valuables at home and lock your vehicles before leaving the parking lots.

Visitors may carry small non-clear bags that do not exceed 4.5″ x 6.5” in size or clear bags that do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″ in size on campus. Visitors bringing medical or childcare items requiring larger bags are recommended to bring them in clear bags. If a bag does not meet these requirements, security personnel may inspect and tag the bag at entry points. Other bags such as large duffle bags and messenger bags are prohibited. Get detailed information about bag requirements on the Open House Safety and Security page. 

Coolers are permitted for a picnic lunch or snacks but must remain in your vehicle at all times. Visitors may return to their vehicles during the event. Security screening may be required upon re-entry to event areas. 

Certain items are not permitted at the Open House. Examples include weapons, alcohol, illegal substances, fireworks and other hazardous materials. Review the full prohibited items list on the Open House Safety and Security page before attending.

It is important to stay hydrated; visitors are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles. Refilling locations are available throughout campus. 

Items to consider bringing with you: 

  • Hat or head covering
  • Sun gear (sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • Rain gear, as this is a rain or shine event (poncho, packable umbrella, light jacket)
  • Small bag, fanny pack or handbag (not to exceed 4.5″ x 6.5”in size)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Mobile phone
  • Credit/debit card for purchases

Food, Beverages and Argonne-Branded Items for Purchase

Visitors can purchase food, beverages and snack items at three locations on campus: Building 213 Cafeteria, Building 362 and Building 401. Argonne-branded merchandise will be available at Building 401. Credit or debit cards only. This is a cashless event.

  • Building 213 Cafeteria: Specialty food items; grilled burgers and kid-friendly options; deli sandwiches; grab-and-go items such as salads, sandwiches, snacks and desserts; popcorn; ice cream; cold beverages, coffee, and tea.
  • Building 362: Hot dogs and burgers; popcorn and ice cream; snacks; cold beverages.
  • Building 401: Grilled burgers and sandwiches; pre-packaged snacks, desserts, and cold beverages; Starbucks refreshers, coffee and tea. Argonne-branded items such as t-shirts and hats are available here.