Top 10 Chicago Museums
Chicago is home to a variety of museums that are dedicated to art, history, science, culture and everything in between. Come learn, experience, and explore all that Chicago has to offer. Many of the museums have free or discounted days and always make sure to ask about student discounts. Here are the top 10 museums you need to check out:
The Art Institute of Chicago
This is one of the world’s greatest art museums with a vast collection that spans centuries. It is located in Chicago’s Grant Park and its main entrance is guarded by two green lions. The lions were actually bronze structures that turned green over the years but their tails are still bronze from people rubbing them for good luck. As an added bonus, if you’re an Illinois resident you can access the museum for free Thursday nights from 5-8 p.m. with proof of residency.
Chicago History Museum
If you’re interested in learning all about Chicago’s rich history then head over to the Chicago History Museum which serves as the hub for scholarship and learning, inspiration, and civic engagement. It is located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Every Tuesday the museum is free for Illinois residents from 12:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Chicago Sports Museum
For all my sports fans you need to check out the Chicago Sports Museum which is located on the 7th level of Water Tower Place next to Harry Caray’s Restaurant. It is an interactive museum celebrating Chicago’s sports through simulated experiences, relics, and stats. They have an incredible collection of unique sports memorabilia and other game used treasures. By dining in at Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch restaurant you can receive complimentary admission to the museum with a minimum purchase.
Museum of Contemporary Art
For those who love and appreciate art go check out the Museum of Contemporary Art. MCA inspires individuals through their innovative exhibitions on contemporary art and culture. MCA’s mission is to “bring artists and audiences together, presenting contemporary art and culture in ways that illuminate what it means to be a citizen of both Chicago and the world.” It is located one block east from the historic Water Tower. This museum also has free admission for Illinois residents on Tuesdays.
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals. Take advantage of unforgettable encounters with belugas, dolphins, sturgeons, sea otters, stingrays and so many more animals from aquatic environments from around the world. The Shedd is focused on education, conservation and sustainability. Their scientists strive to save endangered species and their habitats. The Shedd Aquarium is located at Museum Campus right along the lakefront.
The Field Museum
The Field Museum is dedicated to all things natural history. Go on a journey rich in nature and culture and explore over 40 million artifacts and specimens. Make sure to check out Maximo, the largest dinosaur that ever lived! The Field Museum is also located at Museum Campus along the lakefront.
Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is a museum dedicated to the study of astronomy and astrophysics. The Adler Planetarium strives to connect individuals to the universe and each other through scientific inquiry, collaboration, inclusivity, diversity and experimentation.
Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of the Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the western hemisphere! They have a variety of hands on exhibits so come prepared to play, learn, and explore. Some of their established exhibits include U-505 Submarine, Science Storms, the Coal Mine, the Baby Chick Hatchery, The Great Train Story, and A Mirror Maze just to name a few.
DuSable Museum of African American History
The DuSable Museum of African American History is dedicated to the study and conservation of African American history, culture, and art. Go get inspired by the contributions and experiences of African Americans through the multitude of exhibits, programs and activities that are available to the public. It is a place rooted in history and heritage and has exhibits that honor American heroes who have fought for equality as well as showcases major events throughout U.S. history.
Museum of Broadcast Communications
The Museum of Broadcast Communications strives to “collect, preserve, and present historic and contemporary radio and television content as well as educate, inform, and entertain the public through its archives, public programs, screenings, exhibits, publications and online access to its resources.” It is one of three museums in the nation dedicated to broadcast history.
By: Callie Barnum