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The 11 Best Museums In Chicago

By Coop Daley and Fiona Good-Sirota By Coop Daley and Fiona Good-Sirota | March 28, 2024 | Culture, Lifestyle,

Sue the T Rex at the Field Museum

Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast, seek inspiration or hope to expand your knowledge of history’s evergreen masterpieces, these Chicago museums make the perfect additions to any weekend itinerary.

See also: 27 Fun Things To Do Indoors On A Cold Or Rainy Day In Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago

111 S. Michigan Ave. / Website

Director John Hughes regularly spent his afternoons at this museum, taking inspiration from the thousands of works of art on display. The Art Institute of Chicago boasts works from some of the most highly regarded artists of all time, including Vincent Van Gogh, Georges Seurat, Pablo Picasso and Rembrandt.

Museum of Science and Industry

5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive / Website

Home to more than 400,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, including one of the largest model train exhibits in the world, a toy assembly line, a pendulum room, a coal mine and an array of other hands-on installations, the Museum of Science of Industry is a spectacle of innovation and cutting-edge technology. Located in the former Palace of Fine Arts from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exhibition, the museum offers programming and experiences for creative minds of all ages, including workshops, STEM initiatives and interactive displays.

Museum of Contemporary Art

220 E. Chicago Ave. / Website

The MCA's exhibitions document visual culture through painting, sculpture, photography, film and performance art. With historic architecture from architect Josef Paul Kleihues and a permanent collection of more than 2,000 art pieces from acclaimed artists, including Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Alexander Calder and Cindy Sherman, the museum is a staple in Chicago's art scene.

Field Museum of Natural History

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1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive / Website

With a collection of more than 40 million specimens, including fossils, skeletons, minerals, historical artifacts and more, the Field Museum of Natural History is a must-visit. Guests can view the skeleton of “Sue” the Tyrannosaurus Rex, explore the prehistoric exhibit, experience an underground adventure and see artifacts from Ancient Egypt and America, among other exciting exhibits and installations.

See also: The 7 Best Drivable Destinations Near Chicago

The Museum Of Illusions

25 E. Washington St. / Website

This mind-bending museum offers a sensory-focused, immersive experience that will transfix those of all ages. Rooms like the Vortex Tunnel and the Rotated Room make for a thrilling walk-through, complemented by various other psychedelic installations.

National Museum of Mexican Art

1852 W. 19th St. / Website

The National Museum of Mexican Art holds one of the largest collections of works done by Mexican artists, including pieces from Francisco Flores, Neal Pressley and other accomplished creators. It opened its doors in 1987 and features exhibitions that regularly tour the country.

Museum of Ice Cream

435 N. Michigan Ave. / Website

This museum is a delicious, thrilling, multi-sensory playground for visitors of all ages. The unlimited desserts and vibrant interactive exhibits make it the perfect place to get in touch with your inner child.

See also: The 7 Best Drivable Destinations Near Chicago

DuSable Museum of African American History

740 E. 56th Place / Website

DuSable is the nation’s oldest independent African American museum, renowned throughout the country for its 15,000 historical and artistic pieces and ever-rotating exhibitions. Regularly collaborating with artists such as Viola Davis and Kara Walker, this museum is an essential stop with collections that showcase local and national history.

American Writers Museum

180 N. Michigan Ave. / Website

One of the more unique downtown museums on this list, this high-tech exhibit is filled with intriguing exhibitions on world-renowned writers and historical figures, including Frederick Douglass and Hisaye Yamamoto. With non-fiction works, poetry, speeches and journalistic writings, the museum is ideal for writers, history buffs and curious minds.

Chicago Children’s Museum

700 E. Grand Ave. / Website

With an emphasis on community engagement, accessibility and early childhood development, the Chicago Children’s Museum is a hub for children and their families. Located on Navy Pier, the museum’s hands-on installations, programming and exhibits help foster children’s social, emotional and developmental growth.

WNDR Museum

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1130 W. Monroe St. / Website

This contemporary art stop features works from some of the biggest names in the art scene, including Keith Haring and Yayoi Kusama. With various interactive exhibits, including an infinity mirror room, a light floor and a flux room, the museum has no shortage of hands-on experiences and Instagram-worthy backdrops.

See also: The Ultimate Guide To Chicago's Magnificent Mile


Tags: Fiona Good-Sirota

Photography by: batavia60510/pixabay

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