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Discovery Center

The Discovery Center in Chicago is a well-established adult education program offering a variety of fun and stimulating classes taught by qualified instructors. With a focus on lifelong learning, there are no exams or grades, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace for personal enjoyment and growth.

Discovery Center

Upcoming Classes at Discovery Center

  • Mixed Media Art

    Unleash your creativity and explore a world of endless artistic possibilities as you learn to create captivating compositions using a diverse range of materials and techniques. Let your imagination soar in this dynamic art course that focuses on conceptual practice and personal process.

    Next start date: Tuesday, Apr 9th, 6–8pm Central Time
    Price: $110
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  • Intro to Painting I & II

    Unleash your creativity and master the art of painting with this immersive course at Discovery Center. Explore various painting techniques, experiment with water-based paints, and create captivating abstract and representational artworks. Join us to unlock your artistic potential and express yourself through the power of colors.

    Next start date: Tuesday, Apr 9th, 6–8pm Central Time
    Price: $110
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  • Drawing for Beginners

    Unleash your creativity and transform doodles into masterpieces with the guidance of expert instructors. Explore various techniques and styles to enhance your drawing skills in this immersive course at the renowned Discovery Center. Prepare to be amazed by your artistic abilities.

    Next start date: Tuesday, Apr 9th, 6–8pm Central Time
    Price: $110
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  • Intro to Bookkeeping

    Learn how to conquer your fear of finances and take charge of your bookkeeping in this essential course at the Discovery Center. Gain the skills to set up your books, manage records, and understand business statements. Don't miss out on this opportunity to master the basics of bookkeeping for small business owners and individuals alike.

    Next start date: Wednesday, Apr 3rd, 7–9pm Central Time
    Price: $110
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  • Proofreading & Editing

    Master the art of perfecting written content and avoiding embarrassing mistakes in the digital age. Enhance your skills with personalized instruction and hands-on exercises to ensure error-free final products. Join the industry experts at The Discovery Center for a comprehensive course on proofreading and editing.

    Next start date: Sunday, Apr 21st, 10am–4pm Central Time
    Price: $110
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  • Italian Language - Beginner

    Embark on a linguistic journey through the rich heritage of Italy as you discover the language and culture that shaped artistic legends. Gain conversational skills and grammar proficiency in this immersive course, designed for both travelers and language enthusiasts. Uncover the secrets of Dante, Michelangelo, and Fellini as you lay the foundation for fluent Italian.

    Next start date: Wednesday, Apr 10th, 6–7:30pm Central Time
    Price: $139
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  • S&M, An Intro Class: Bondage and Domination

    Discover the exciting world of kink and learn how to explore it safely in this introductory class at the Discovery Center. Join our experienced instructor, Leather Redux, as she guides you through the fundamentals of negotiation, equipment use, impact play, and basic bondage techniques. All genders and orientations are welcome.

    Next start date: Monday, Apr 15th, 2:30–5:30pm Central Time
    Price: $55
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  • Practical Spanish (Beginner)

    Are you planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country or want to feel more at home in a Latino neighborhood? Join us at the Discovery Center and learn the essential vocabulary and grammar to navigate a Hispanic community or foreign country. A $25 materials fee applies.

    Next start date: Wednesday, Apr 10th, 6–7:30pm Central Time
    Price: $139
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  • Stained Glass Workshop

    Unlock your creativity and discover the timeless art of stained glass. Immerse yourself in the copper foil method as you learn how to cut, break, and assemble glass to create your stunning masterpiece. Join us at the Discovery Center and elevate your artistic skills in this captivating workshop.

    Next start date: Sunday, May 12th, 10am–4pm Central Time
    Price: $85
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  • Contract Bridge for Beginners

    Discover the fascinating world of Contract Bridge! Join our introductory course and learn the fundamentals of bidding, playing the hand, and scoring. Meet new people, challenge your mind, and have fun with the world's greatest card game.

    Next start date: Wednesday, Apr 10th, 7:30–9:30pm Central Time
    Price: $145
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  • Fun and Easy Tarot - Learn to Read Tarot

    Unlock the ancient wisdom of the Tarot and tap into your spiritual abilities in this enlightening course. Discover the origin of Tarot, learn the meanings of Major and Minor Arcana cards, and practice giving and receiving readings. Embrace your inner mystic at Discovery Center.

    Next start date: Saturday, Apr 20th, 2:30–4:30pm Central Time
    Price: $59
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  • Intro to Knitting

    Experience the joy and satisfaction of learning a new skill with our Intro to Knitting course at the Discovery Center. This beginner-friendly class offers hands-on learning, visual aids, and personalized assistance to help you master the art of knitting. Walk away with a finished project and a newfound passion for this timeless craft.

    Next start date: Saturday, Apr 20th, 3:30–5:30pm Central Time
    Price: $39
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  • Intro to Crochet

    Discover the art of crocheting from scratch with hands-on learning, visual aids, and personalized assistance. Leave with a completed project and the skills to replicate it at home, along with a signed Certificate of Completion. Don't miss out on this chance to learn a new hobby and feel that warm sense of accomplishment.

    Next start date: Saturday, Apr 20th, 1–3pm Central Time
    Price: $39
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  • Spanish Intermediate

    Take your Spanish language skills to the next level with our immersive and practical course. Enhance your speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities while mastering future, past, and present verb tenses. Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your Spanish fluency.

    Next start date: Tuesday, Apr 9th, 6–7:30pm Central Time
    Price: $139
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  • Italian Language - Intermediate

    Take your Italian language skills to the next level with this immersive course. Enhance your conversational abilities, expand your vocabulary, and strengthen your grasp of grammar. Perfect for those who have completed a beginner's course or have equivalent experience.

    Next start date: Wednesday, Apr 10th, 7:30–9pm Central Time
    Price: $139
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  • Contract Bridge - Open Play

    Enhance your bridge skills and make new connections in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Join us at Discovery Center for an exhilarating evening of brain-teasing fun. All levels are welcome!

    Next start date: Thursday, Apr 18th, 7–9pm Central Time
    Price: $125
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  • Jump Start Your Notary Business II

    Discover how to take your Notary Business to the next level and get connected with agencies seeking your services in this comprehensive class offered by Discovery Center. Learn how to establish your fees, review your profile, and meet all requirements to excel in the industry. Prior Notary Class completion is a prerequisite.

    Next start date: Saturday, Apr 20th, 12–4pm Central Time
    Price: $59
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  • Master Online Sales, eBay, Craigslist, Amazon & Paypal

    Elevate your online sales game with our comprehensive course at Discovery Center. From eBay and Craigslist to Amazon and PayPal, gain mastery in listing items across diverse platforms. Whether you're a seasoned online seller or just starting, discover the nuances of each portal, compare costs, efforts, and suitability for your items. Join us, even without a computer, and explore the latest mobile apps to optimize your online selling experience.

    Next start date: Saturday, Mar 30th, 1:30–4pm Central Time
    Price: $75
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  • Jump Start your Notary Business

    Discover the skills and knowledge to work as an independent entrepreneur as a Notary Public and earn an income in this challenging economy. Gain the expertise to complete notarial acts, and certificates, and maintain a notary journal. Take your business/service to the next level with this comprehensive course.

    Next start date: Saturday, May 4th, 12–4pm Central Time
    Price: $59
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  • Astrology for Beginners - Beyond your Zodiac Sign

    Unlock the secrets of astrology and discover the ancient art that can help you understand your true potential. Join us at the Discovery Center to dive deep into the science behind astrology and unravel the mysteries of the zodiac. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about yourself and those around you.

    Next start date: Saturday, May 4th, 2:30–5:30pm Central Time
    Price: $59
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2855 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Discovery Center
Lakeview, North Side
2855 N Lincoln Ave
Btwn N Racine Ave & W George St
Chicago, Illinois 60657

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Description

The Discovery Center is Chicago's Lifelong Learning Center. As Chicago's large stand longest running independent adult education program, we present fun, stimulating classes by qualified independent instructors who enjoy introducing others to their subjects.

Learn among friends for your own enjoyment and growth, no exams, grades or degrees. Suggestions or comments always welcome. See for yourself what lifelong learning can be!


Reviews of Discovery Center

(4.3-star rating across 277 reviews)
  • Fun and Easy Tarot - Learn to Read Tarot

    Anonymous review on 2/29/2024
    I liked the class, but I was surprised at the fee. Not only was the class $59, which would've been fine, but the instructor charged an additional $12 at the class. I thought that I was going to get a tarot deck for that fee but I just got some photo copies of instructions on reading tarot. Overall, it was overpriced and I wouldn't do it again.
  • Stained Glass Workshop

    Reviewed by Simon A. on 2/26/2024
    It was very good indeed. The instructor knew their stuff well, and wasn't afraid to tell us this. We all walked out with great quality stained glass pieces that we can all be proud of.
  • Stained Glass Workshop

    Anonymous review on 1/29/2024
    This was a great introduction to stained glass! Isabel was a detailed and helpful instructor and provided hands-on support to all the students. You can get your piece framed with a chain for an extra cost, but it was nice to go home with a finished piece that was ready to hang up. Overall it was fun but pricier than expected.
  • Mixed Media Art

    Reviewed by Peggy A. on 10/12/2023
    I enjoyed the class but feel due to my lack of art experience I did not get as much out of it.
  • Italian Language - Beginner (Online)

    Reviewed by Leah k. on 8/18/2023
    I was the only person registered for the class so it was one on one. Though I stated I did not want to do this I said I’d give it a try. I managed to do two classes but I really did not enjoy being the only student. However the teacher was very nice and an engaging conversationalist ( in English) Both he and the director of school were personable and flexible and I believe they will allow me to take a different class in the future with my unused classes. I recommend this school for flexibility and a human touch,
  • Rafting, White Water - St. Joseph River

    Reviewed by Jekaterina B. on 8/16/2023
    Everything was very good Many thanks Greetings from Prague, Czech Republic
  • Jump Start your Notary Business

    Reviewed by Cynthia R. on 7/30/2023
    Mrs Eva Tolbert-Bradley was wonderful. I am shy when it comes to sitting in a classroom.
  • Jump Start your Notary Business

    Anonymous review on 7/3/2023
    Didn’t walk away with everything I should’ve learned for basic Notary Skills. Need more class structure, group was too large in tight space and focus more on Notary lesson only.
  • Intro to Crochet

    Anonymous review on 7/3/2023
    Instructor was awesome and very hands on. We learned one basic knot. Didn’t care for picture illustrations, especially if you don’t know what you are doing. But, realistically this one day 2 hours is not enough. Thank goodness it was only myself and one other student. This needs to be taught in a series of classes. This really was a waste of money and time.
  • How to Start Your Own Business

    Reviewed by Denise B. on 6/18/2023
    Very knowledgeable instructor. Provided networking with professionals needed for business startups.
  • Stained Glass Workshop

    Reviewed by Rebecca S. on 6/12/2023
    Class size was waaaayy too big. I felt like I didn’t get the interaction I paid for because there was too many people. Otherwise- no complaints! Loved the course, great instructor, felt like I learned a lot.
  • Jump Start your Notary Business

    Anonymous review on 6/10/2023
    I knew nothing of the notarial process, Eva provided me with stepping stones to begin my business. I look forward to my next class to further my knowledge and skills in my notary public entrepreneurship.
  • Kink 201: Intensive for Impact & Bondage

    Anonymous review on 5/22/2023
    Excellent class with immersive interaction. Very informative as well.
  • Jump Start your Notary Business

    Reviewed by KyiAutumn O. on 5/15/2023
    This class was very informative The teacher was very knowledgeable in her field of work She made the class fun to learn about notary If you are looking to get into this line of work take this class You will be happy you did
  • Jump Start your Notary Business

    Reviewed by Darryl S. on 5/13/2023
    The teacher was informative and worth every penny.
  • Jump Start your Notary Business

    Anonymous review on 5/8/2023
    Class was too big. I also used a promo code to save $10, but I was still charged the full cost. Will likely not participate in any further courses here.
  • Intro to Bookkeeping

    Anonymous review on 5/4/2023
    Waiting on part 2. The small setting helped with comprehending the material.
  • Stained Glass Workshop

    Reviewed by Katlyn T. on 4/24/2023
    First, if you're interested in doing your own design in this class, it's not going to happen. The description says you can but it would take up too much class time and this is just an intro class. HOWEVER, the pattern they do provide you is really pretty and the choice of glass they provide to make your masterpiece is awesome. The instructor I had, Isabel, was super knowledgeable and she was really approachable. Some teachers are intimidating and you're too scared of them to ask questions but Isabel was really sweet and kind. Last thing: you pay for the class up front and you pay for the materials day-of. If you want your stained glass creation framed and hung by a chain, it'll cost extra. That's not a complaint, it's just good to know if you're looking at the price of the class/creation.
  • Stained Glass Workshop

    Anonymous review on 4/24/2023
    Overall very informative. The teacher was great at answering questions. She was direct, to the point, and could articulate what you needed to know within 4 sentences. This is not a negative, she knew her craft so well that she understood the best way to phrase things to beginners. Before taking this class the idea of cutting glass or soldering were intimidating. Now I've done both and trying again doesn't seem scary at all. I actually look forward to it. My only critique would be that I'd have liked a bit more ventilation in the workspace itself, but it was cold outside that day so I can understand why the windows stayed closed. The folks at the center itself were very nice. I arrived early and they let me wait inside where it was warm. I would definitely recommend this class to other people thinking about taking up stained glass. It's a good condensed class for beginners to get a feel for the process and skills involved.
  • Fun and Easy Tarot - Learn to Read Tarot

    Anonymous review on 4/2/2023
    Sarah, our instructor was fabulous! Really fun class for beginners and I left a lot wiser and more empowered to trust my intuition.
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Review Summary by CourseHorse

Students generally appreciate the Discovery Center for its flexibility and personalized approach to learning. While one student, lacking art experience, praised the school for its accommodating nature. Another student, despite initially being the only one in the class, acknowledged the teacher's friendliness and engaging teaching style. Mrs. Eva Tolbert-Bradley received high praise for her notarial process class, with a shy student commending her for providing essential networking opportunities for business startups. The student expressed gratitude for the stepping stones provided to initiate their notary public entrepreneurship. The overall sentiment is positive, emphasizing the human touch, flexibility, and practical knowledge gained from classes at the Discovery Center. Quotes: "I recommend this school for flexibility and a human touch." "Mrs. Eva Tolbert-Bradley was wonderful. Very knowledgeable instructor. Provided networking with professionals needed for business startups." "If you are looking to get into [a new] line of work, take this class. You will be happy you did."

Teachers at Discovery Center

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