Welcome to the SOA Passport Program
The SOA Passport is the ultimate Northwestern path to getting off campus and exploring all the experiences the Chicagoland area can offer! This program offers students a variety of FREE experiences that include attending major league sports games, visits to local cultural institutions like the Shedd Aquarium and the Art Institute of Chicago, popular theatrical performances, and so much more. Enrich your undergraduate experience by snagging your own SOA Passport, collecting stamps at each event, and making memories along the way!
In concert with SOA's Barrier-Free mission, SOA will provide registered and participating undergraduate students entry into the experience and round-trip transportation via charter bus or CTA passes. Students collect stamps for each event they participate in and can cash in their stamps to win prizes at our annual Final Flight event at the end of the year!
*Each event has limited capacity and reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. This program is for currently enrolled undergraduate students only.
How to Sign Up
- Request to join the SOA Passport Program via 'Cats on Campus and then our team will then verify your registration. Please note this may take a day or two.
- Once in the platform, come by our The Source (3rd Floor of Norris) to pick up your very own Passport Booklet! You can do this from September 28th - September 30th from 10:00AM - 2:00PM to OR one of our later designated distribution days (listed on 'Cats on Campus). Have your Wildcard ready and we'll verify your registration.
- Keep an eye out for event announcements and registation openings on 'Cats on Campus!
Join today! Registration is open on a rolling basis.
Dive right into Fall by adventuring with the SOA Passport Program through the Chicagoland area at one (or more) of these experiences:
Sunset Boat Cruise
October 1, 2026
Join the Passport Program for an unforgettable experience of Chicago from the water as the sun sets behind one of the world’s most iconic skylines! Students will cruise along the Chicago River and onto Lake Michigan with Wendella, taking in views of landmarks like the Wrigley Building, Marina City, and the Willis Tower as the city transitions from golden hour to nighttime. Along the way, enjoy a new perspective on the city we call home, snap some incredible skyline photos, and keep an eye out for a few uniquely Chicago sights, including the river’s famous movable bridges and the historic locks connecting the Chicago River to Lake Michigan.
Registration opens September 25 on ’Cats on Campus.
Northwestern Night at the Art Institute
October 15, 2026
The Art Institute of Chicago is a vibrant cultural oasis where masterpieces from across the globe meet, inviting students to immerse themselves in artistic wonder. From iconic works like Grant Wood's "American Gothic" to avant-garde exhibitions that push the boundaries of creativity, the institute pulsates with the exhilarating energy of human expression.
CTA passes will be available via registration on ’Cats on Campus and distributed at the Passport table from October 12-14.
Chicago Flyover @ Navy Pier
November 14, 2026
Join us at Navy Pier as we take off on a double-feature adventure at Flyover! We’ll begin by soaring above Chicago’s iconic skyline, neighborhoods, and lakefront with through Believe Chicago. Afterwords, we will head west for a breathtaking journey through the Rocky Mountains through Call of the Canadian Rockies. With motion seating, a massive spherical and 4-D features, Flyover creates an immersive experience that brings both destinations to life. Two adventures, one trip!
Registration opens November 3 on ’Cats on Campus. ✈️
Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape
November 20, 2026
Experience the magic of the season with the Chicago Botanic Garden at their annual Lightscape, where the Garden comes alive with radiant lights, captivating art, and enchanting music. The garden, established in 1963, is home to 300 acres of forest and comprised of 24 different displays, and four natural habitats. This year's newly reimagined trail elevates the garden’s sixth annual holiday celebration with stunning installations, some making their U.S. debut. Students on this trip will step away from their routine and step into a scene of beautiful sights and unforgettable memories at Lightscape.
Registration opens November 9 on ’Cats on Campus.
To request a replacement SOA Passport, please fill out the form here - Passport Booklet Replacement Request
Spring 2026
- Broadway in Chicago: Hamilton
- NU Night at the Art Institute - Spring
- Chicago Sky vs Minnesota Lynx
Winter 2026
- Second City: This Too Shall Slap
- Shedd Aquarium
- University Partner Fest - Art Institute Chicago
- Chicago Bulls vs OKC Thunder
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get my SOA Passport?
To pick up your SOA Passport Booklet, look out for communication on distribution dates to come by Norris University Center. Have your Wildcard ready and we'll verify your registration to get you very own SOA Passport! Dates for our next round of distributing Passport Booklets will be announced on 'Cats on Campus.
Are the events required?
No, none of the events are required to participate in the program. Each event will fill up quickly. Some events will have more availability while others will have more limited seats, availability depends on each event.
How will I know when events are happening?
New! SOA will host event details, registrations, and communications through the new ’Cats on Campus. platform! Make sure you've downloaded the app to stay in the know and to sign up for our events.
Can I get a replacement passport?
If you've received and lost/misplaced your SOA Passport, you are able to request one (1) replacement SOA Passport. To do this please visit and fill out our Passport Replacement Form here and we'll process these on an individual basis.
What if I forget my passport at home?
If you forget your Passport for an event, you can come to The Source and receive your stamp after the event, but no later than the end of the year we offer that event!
What if an event is sold out and I want to go?
If you want to attend an event and were unable to sign up, you can meet SOA at the loading location of the specific event to wait and see if seats become available. (Example. Waitlist for the Architecture Boat tour will be at the dock on 400 N Michigan Ave or for the Botanic Gardens waitlist will be at Arts Circle on campus at bus loading). We will fill in remaining seats on a first-come, first-served basis!
Who can register for the SOA Passport Program?
The SOA Passport Program is only available for currently enrolled Northwestern undergraduate students.
I registered for the SOA Passport Program, but don't have access to the 'Cats on Campus group?
Enrollment for the SOA PAssport program is on a rolling basis and is currently updated manually. We will update the listserv on a regular cadence.
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
If you have more questions about the Passport Program, you can reach out to K. Parker Hess at kparkerhess@northwestern.edu.