Adler Planetarium
Learn all about outer space at Chicago’s Adler Planetarium! The Adler Planetarium is home to Chicago’s largest public telescope allowing guests to take a look at Chicago’s sky. “The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time” is an exhibit that takes you back in time from over 13 million years ago to present. Areas such as the Community Design Labs and the Community Star Studio are hands-on rooms to put your creativity to use. With several interactive and hands-on exhibits you’re sure to find something you love!
Admission: Starting at $19 for adults, and $8 for children (3-11)
Hours: Friday – Monday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, Wednesday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
American Writers Museum
You don’t have to be a writer to enjoy the American Writers Museum! Located near the Magnificent Mile, the American Writers Museum gives visitors of all ages a look into some of the most influential writers in American history. The Negaunee Foundation Children’s Gallery has a large mural and comfortable reading space for kids and families. The Reading Hall and Museum in Writing Hall, both encourage discovery and learning about authors past and present, and are immersive and educational places that encourage creativity.
Admission: $14 for adults, $9 for students, teachers and seniors (65+), and free for children 12 and under
Hours: Thursday-Monday 10 am – 5 pm.
Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of Chicago’s most visited museums. Located right on Michigan Avenue, The Art Institute holds a variety of exhibits, galleries and events that creates fun for the whole family! The museum houses a variety of extraordinary collections that won’t be found at just any museum. Immerse yourself in art from around the world. Highlights include American art and Impressionist, but also the Miniature Rooms and the two museum shops are worth visiting. The Art Institute is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and open Thursdays through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Arts Club of Chicago
The Arts Club of Chicago holds some of the most impressive international art and has been exhibiting so since 1916. Their motive is to “encourage higher standards of art” and to upkeep the professionalism of artists from around the world. The Arts Club first-floor galleries are free and open to the public from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. For private tours, contact the museum website, or give them a call!
Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design
Located in the world’s first city of modern architecture and design, The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design holds history dedicated to the art of design. The museum will take a closer look at various disciplines, such as architecture, industrial and product design, graphics, urban planning, and landscape architecture to create a better understanding of the world around us. Exhibition hours are available from noon to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday, and from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Check it out some awesome STEM-based engagements on your next Chicago visit!
Chinese American Museum of Chicago
Take a day to explore Chinatown and stumble upon the Chinese American Museum of Chicago while you’re at it. Telling the stories of Chinese Americans in the Midwest, this museum provides panels and open mics alongside their exhibitions. The Chinese immigration, Chinese American veterans, and Chinese cuisine are part of current exhibitions and will further your connection with Chinatown.
Admission: $8 suggested donation and $5 for seniors and students.
Hours: Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Block Museum of Art
The Block Museum of Art is located just north of Chicago on Northwestern University’s campus. The museum showcases prints, drawings, and photographs.
Admission: Free
Hours: Wednesday to Friday 12 – 8:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 12 – 5:00 pm
Bronzeville Children’s Museum
Visit the Bronzeville Children’s Museum, the first and only African American children’s museum. With exhibits engaging for children ages 4 to 9, the museum introduces children to African American inventors, STEM-based missions, the importance of a healthy Diet, and a tour of Bronxville landmarks. Tours are held hourly, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Bronzeville Children’s Museum emphasized educational methods through a rich and engaging experience!
Museum of Broadcast Communications
The Museum of Broadcast Communications explores the history of radio and television through different exhibits and galleries. The Chicago School of Television is a gallery that features items from Chicago icons Such as Bozo, Svengoolie, and Ray Raner. Walk through the Radio Hall of Fame to see people that made a difference in broadcast history. The Century of Radio exhibit displays different radios throughout history and explores the invention of the radio. The Great Debates is an exhibit that explains how presidential debates changed broadcast history. These are great ways to immerse yourself into the history of media and broadcast.
Admission: $14 General admission
Hours: Thursday-Sunday 10 am – 5 pm.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Visit the world’s largest museum committed to contemporary art to observe pieces from living artists. Their exhibitions touch on current social, cultural, and historical events and dissect their meanings through art. Gregory Bae, She Mad, and Firelei Baéz are current exhibitions that will join the more than 2,000 pieces of work created at the museum. Their permanent collections highlight artists from Chicago, London, and Iran all working with different mediums on canvas such as oil, mixed media, and ink. Dive in and explore the mind of an artist through their personal expressions of artistry.
Admission: $15 for adults and $8 for seniors, teachers, and students.
Hours: Tuesday from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Museum of Contemporary Photography
If you are looking for an opportunity to check out some art, look no further than the Museum of Contemporary Photography! Located on Michigan Avenue in Columbia College, the museum holds over 16,000 pieces of art by over 1,500 artists. Admission is free and you can get a guided tour by a staff member and engage in discussion about the pieces that you find interesting. Exhibits contain different photography pieces by featured artists. The museum also offers the opportunity to attend lectures if you are interested in learning further about photography and art. MoCP is a great place to visit if you want to explore art on a budget!
Admission: Free
Hours: Monday – Wednesday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Chicago Children’s Museum
A day accompanied by your family is incomplete with a trip to the Chicago Children’s Museum. Embrace your inner child and let your mind run wild with exhibits like the art studio, tinkering lab, and the story hub. Every exhibit is categorized by age which allows kids to feel at home and comfortable in a space meant for play! The activities don’t stop for children but continue on for parents since the museum is located in Navy Pier. A great spot for everyone to take advantage of what the city has to offer.
Admission: $19 for adults and children.
Hours: Mondays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Depaul University Art Museum
Visit Depaul’s beautiful Lincoln Park campus, and explore their art museum! With three to five exhibits per year, over 3,500 art sculptures, pictures, and work is presented in the DePaul University Art Museum. Art ranges from international to modern, to contemporary, so there is a variety with your visit! The museum does hold free admission, and is open Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check out some Blue Demon territory!
DuSable Museum of African American History
The 150,00 pieces at the DuSable Museum of African American History will introduce you to the culture of Africans and African Americans. The education of Black history and customs is stretched through sculptures, print works, and historical memorabilia. Current exhibitions express the messages behind the origin of freedom, the Chicago 1919 Race Riot and more.
Admission: $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, and $3 for children ages 6 through 13.
Hours: Wednesday through Sunday from 11:10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museum of Natural History is another very popular Chicago museum. With over 40 million artifacts and 65,000 exhibits, visitors leave with a greater understanding of humans’ relationship with the world. Take a glimpse at some fascinating new perspectives. The museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily and even has scheduled days for select ticket promotions. Check out their website for more!
Glessner House
The Glessner House is a National Historic Landmark designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson in 1887. Located on Chicago’s South Side, this historic landmark is one of a kind for those interested in architecture and history. If you’re interested in Chicago history, this is a must see!
Admission: $20 for adults and $17 for seniors and students
Hours: Guided tours are available Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 11:30 am, 1:00 pm, and 2:30 pm.
Haitian American Museum of Chicago
Since 2012, the Haitian American Museum of Chicago has put Haiti’s rich culture for all of Chicago to observe. With the option of virtual or in-person displays, this museum will transport you to a new country and surround you with vibrant colors and inspiring visuals. Not limited to exhibitions, their museum contains oral histories, a library catalog, and programs to learn Haiti’s native language.
Admission: $8 for all general public.
Hours: Wednesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Halim Time & Glass Museum
Visit the Halim Time and Glass Museum, and explore a variety of collections of popular, yet timeless stained glass windows, rare clocks, watches, and so much more! Located in Evanston, this museum preserves artistic wealth and uniqueness. Each visitor is greeted with welcoming elegance as they enter the museum. Visitors explore a variety of historic artifacts from around the world. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. Check it out!
Heritage Museum of Asian Art
Experience the world of Asian art at the Heritage Museum of Asian Art. This museum showcases the most beautiful and acknowledged forms of art from different time periods ins Asia. Located in Bridgeport, this museum brings a wave of Asian culture back to Chicago. Their mission is to promote the Asian roots that are preserved in Chicago. The Museum is open from Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try it out!
Illinois Holocaust Museum
Located in Skokie, the Illinois Holocaust Museum is an educational museum dedicated to survivors and victims of the Holocaust. There are several rooms and exhibits that teach visitors the history surrounding the Holocaust and why it is important for future generations to learn about. The Hall of Reflection and Peace Garden are serene spaces to reflect and honor those lost during the Holocaust. For children and families, The Harvey L. Miller Family Youth Exhibition is an interactive area that teaches kids how to make positive changes in the world, as well as everyday problem solving skills.
Hours: Wednesday – Monday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission: $18 for adults, $12 for seniors (65+), $8 for students up to 22 years old (with valid student ID), $6 for ages 5-11, and children under 5 are free
*The museum does not accept cash
International Museum of Surgical Science
The International Museum of Surgical Science is a great place for those interested in science, history, and the human body. The IMSS has several displays featuring surgical instruments throughout history. The museum also pays homage to early surgeons and doctors such as Dr. Edward Jenner, who helped create the vaccine for small pox and Nobel Prize winner Dr. Alexis Carrel. The Hall of Murals includes a variety of paintings that depict the history and progression of surgery. IMSS includes a library containing over 5,000 books on surgical science.
Admission: $19 for adults, $15 for seniors (65+), students, and members of the military, $11 for children 4 – 13, and children 3 and under are free
Hours: Monday – Friday 9:30 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Irish American Heritage Center
The Irish American Heritage Center (IAHC) offers a close look at Irish culture through historical maps, tapestry, fine China, and other artifacts. The IAHC has a large library containing over 25,000 books and a children’s literature section that has books centering on Irish tales and folklore. The IAHC is open by appointment only and offers tours and classes. The Fifth Province Pub is open to the public Fridays and Saturdays from 6:00 pm – 1:00 am. It is located in the IAHC and offers Irish fare and live music.
Admission: Donation of any amount
Office hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, and closed Sunday
Jane Addams Hull-House Museum
Visit the influential Hull-House Museum, and immerse yourself in a museum focused on social justice reformation! For over 100 years, Jane Addams’s impact on social justice has paved a path for future activists and historians. Although the museum is closed, the House is still available for outside view, and their work is still being updated. Visit the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum website for more information on the history, documentation, and updates of women, children, and minority justice!
Leather Archives and Museum
The topic of leather stretches further than your mind could imagine at the Leather Archives & Museum. Head to Rogers Park, or their online catalog, to learn about their history on BDSM culture. They cover leather, kinks, and fetishes backed by their research and recommended readings. This museum is unlike any other, which is why everyone should give it a try!
Admission: $10 for the general public and $5 for seniors and students.
Hours: Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
The relationship Chicago has with its river isn’t one to overlook, the amazing moveable bridge is highlighted at the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum. Friends of the Chicago River created exhibits like “Nature’s Mosaic”, “Early Animal Life’, and “A Land for Many People” to connect Chicagoans with a landmark that keeps the city alive. Enjoy the glimmering river with a deeper admiration after learning of its endless capabilities.
Admission: $6 for General admission, $5 for seniors, students, and children ages six to 12, and free for children five and younger.
Hours: Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
Visit the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian and understand the story of the American Indians from across the United States, Canada and the Arctic.
Check out their newest exhibit, No Rest: The Epidemic of Stolen Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2Spirits, which remembers and honors the number of countless Native individuals who go missing or are murdered each year due to their art and activism. The museum is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Museum of Broadcast Communications
The Museum of Broadcast Communications explores the history of radio and television through different exhibits and galleries. The Chicago School of Television is a gallery that features items from Chicago icons Such as Bozo, Svengoolie, and Ray Raner. Walk through the Radio Hall of Fame to see people that made a difference in broadcast history. The Century of Radio exhibit displays different radios throughout history and explores the invention of the radio. The Great Debates is an exhibit that explains how presidential debates changed broadcast history. These are great ways to immerse yourself into the history of media and broadcast.
Admission: $14 General admission
Hours: Thursday-Sunday 10 am – 5 pm.
Museum of Ice Cream
some attempt at visiting the amazing Museum of Ice Cream. With hundreds of photo-ops, unlimited ice cream, and a sprinkle pit, this trip will be tons of fun for a family, hangout, or if you’re exploring on your own. Said to be “the willy winks factory come to life”, the Museum of Icecream is sure to become a memorable experience. The museum holds world-famous attractions that are sure to be liked by anyone. For a limited time, the exhibit is open Monday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is definitely a museum you want to take the whole family to! The Museum of Illusions is located right by Millenium Park and allows visitors to explore the world of illusions. With over 80 mind-blowing exhibits, The Museum of Illusions is definitely a museum you wish to spend more time in. With engaging sensory, visual, and educational experiences, any guest is sure to be astonished by what our reality is. Also, make sure to bring your camera, and be ready for some awesome photo-ops! The museum is open Sunday through Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Friday- Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m! Bring the family, and enjoy the world of illusions!
The Medival Torture Museum
Are you brave enough to explore Chicago’s Medival Torture Museum? The Medival Torture Museum is a new museum to enter the pool of museums that Chicago has to offer. With over 100 devices and displays of medieval torture techniques, anyone is sure to be fascinated, intrigued, and even grossed out! The Museum is located right on State Street, in South loop, and is open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.Go back in time, and enter the minds of murderers, madmen, and creeps!
Chicago Maritime Museum
The Chicago Maritime Museum opened in 2016 with the mission to “preserve and present the heritage of Chicago’s waterways”. Through this museum, you can have a look at the importance of the location of Chicago and how trade was made possible through the city’s waterways. This is a quaint place to learn about the history of Chicago’s waterways!
Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and free for children under 12, military, and teachers
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
National Hellenic Museum
Located in Chicago’s Greektown, The National Hellenic Museum stands as the second oldest American museum designed to inform and immerse visitors in Greek culture. Even the building itself is constructed of natural limestone and glass, popular in greek traditions. View how valuable art, exhibits, and various programs connect within Chicago! The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and admission ranges from $7-$10. And even after your museum experience, stop by some local restaurants for some authentic Greek food!
The Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum will help you navigate the city’s history through exhibitions, educational programs, and events. Permanent exhibitions, like Sensing Chicago and Democracy Limited: Chicago Women and the Vote, offer experiencing Chicago through your five senses and reflecting on women’s activism. Millions of Moments: Chicago Sun-Times and Remembering Dr.King: 1929-1968 are temporary exhibitions displaying photography of the two topics. Events range from in-person to virtual which leave you plenty of time to explore the abundance of information.
Admission: $19 for adults, $17 for seniors and students, and free for those under 18.
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12 – 5 p.m.
National Museum of Mexican Art
With a variety of collections from well-known Mexican, and Mexican American, artists, The National Museum of Mexican Art is a space where children and adults hold an engaging, yet informative experience. Located in Pilsen, the area immerses visitors in the Latin roots that created it. The museum is closed on Mondays and major holidays, but from Tuesday to Sunday, the museum is open10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Check out some of Pilsen’s awesome restaurants after!
Newberry Library
The Newberry Library is an independent library, museum, school and so much more! The Newberry Library holds a variety of exhibitions, collections, and programs that will definitely peak your interest. Located in the Goldcoast neighborhood, The Newberry Library holds over 1.6 million books and collections from over six centuries ago. Any visitor is sure to leave more informed. Stop by for a guided tour of the building, explore doodles from famous artists, and even discover facts about your family tree! The Newberry Library is free for the public and is open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursdays, and closed Monday to Wednesday. Check out one of Chicago’s most iconic libraries!
Oriental Institute Museum
The Oriental Institute Museum, located at the University of Chicago campus, combines art and scholarship by producing exhibitions and research! Enjoy a show by attending the “Making Sense of Marbles: Roman Sculpture at the OI” exhibition, the collection of sculptures captures the significance behind archaeological story in physical objects. Another unique event is the “Contemporary Art Installations,” which brings the past to new audiences with the talent of internationally recognized artists. There are endless opportunities at this location with 350,000 differing artifacts.
Admission: $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under.
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m – 4 p.m.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Looking to combine nature, education and fun? Look no further than the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum! Located in Lincoln Park, the museum is home to a live butterfly room and has exhibits that focus on nature and ecology in Illinois. The museum offers over 100 educational programs for adults and children. The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a must for people who love to explore nature!
Admission:$9 for adults, $7 for students and seniors (60+), $6 for children 3-12, and children under 3 are free
Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Poetry Foundation
Have a love of literature? If so, The Poetry Foundation might be for you! Come visit their library containing 30,000 volumes of poetry or check out their poetry-inspired exhibits. The Poetry Foundation also has a variety of events, such as their monthly book group. Admission is free, so come check it out!
Admission: Free
Hours: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Polish Museum of American
Known as “Polish Downtown”, this West Town neighborhood holds an important part of Chicago’s culture. The museum promotes Polish culture, and history, as well as the significance of Polish heritage in North America. Having thousands of Polish immigrants living in Chicago, visiting and understanding their roots is an eye-opening experience. The museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Check it out!
Pritzker Military Museum
The Pritzker Military Museum is dedicated to honoring members of the military both past and present. This military museum includes the Medal of Honor Exhibit that celebrates the recipients of the Medal of Honor. The museum is filled with military artifacts and photographs. The Pritzker Military Museum has a library filled with military literature.
Admission: $10 for general admission, $8 for seniors, teachers, and students, and free with active military ID
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Richard H. Driehaus Museum
Introduce yourself to the Gilded Age and spend a day at the Richard H. Driehaus Museum. Its beautiful location is in the restored Samuel Mayo Nickerson Mansion, which is less than a mile away from the Magnificent Mile! Their collections include stunning Tiffany lamps and glorious paintings of classical mythology. Stroll around the mansion and leave in a state of awe from its breathtaking architecture and timeless pieces.
Admission: $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for students, and children under 12 are free.
Hours: Thursday and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Robie House
Built in 1909, the Robie House is a National Historic Landmark located in Hyde Park. It was built by architect Frank Lloyd Wright and sits on the University of Chicago campus. A great experience for anyone interested in architecture, history, and a love of Chicago landmarks! Guided tours take you through the interior of the home, showcasing the history and design of the Robie House.
*Children under 8 are not permitted on interior tours
Admission: $25 – $75
Hours: Thursday – Monday 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
The Robie House offers guided tours ranging from $20 – $75 depending on how in-depth you want to go. Self-guided tours are available by going to the gift shop and picking up a pair of headphone
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is another one of Chicago’s iconic museums. With over 2 million guests per year, Shedd Aquarium is a museum that creates an engaging experience for the whole family! Their three exhibits, which include The Caribbean Reef, Abbot Oceanarium, and Polar Play Zone, give visitors a variety to explore and engage in. Whatever your reasoning for visiting the aquarium, there is something for everyone. From the Aquarium’s 4D experiences to Beluga Encounters, this museum created unforgettable experiences. The aquarium is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays, and from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends. Check it out!
Smart Museum of Art
The Smart Museum of Art is located in the University of Chicago in Hyde Park. It is home to the Sculpture Garden that showcases work by various artists. The museum includes over 15,000 pieces of art. The Smart Museum of Art has exhibits that include modern, Asian, European, and contemporary art. If you are looking to enjoy art for free, come check it out!
Admission: Free
Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. , Thursday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., and Friday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. *The Smart Art Museum is temporarily closed for re-installation until Feb 22, 2023
Swedish American Museum
The Swedish American Museum is dedicated to teaching the history of Swedish immigration through art exhibits, educational programs, and events. Located in Andersonville, the museum has been active in introducing Swedish-American culture to visitors for over 40 years. There are plenty of fun hands-on activities for children in the Brunk Children’s Museum, which is located inside of the Swedish American Museum.
Admission: Adults $6, Children/Students/Seniors $4
Hours: Museum, Gallery, and Store: Tuesday – Friday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 11:00 am – 4:00 pm and Children’s Museum: Tuesday – Thursday 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Friday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Chicago Sports Museum
Have a love of sports? The Chicago Sports Museum is definitely for you! The 23,000-square-foot museum is home to memorabilia from sporting events such as the 2016 World Series. The museum has hands-on and interactive exhibits like the “Hall of Legends” which includes virtual reality games. Located in Chicago’s Water Tower Place, The Chicago Sports Museum is a great place to celebrate Chicago’s teams and iconic athletes.
Admission: $10 ages 12-64, $8 for college students with valid student ID, $6 seniors 65+ and children 4-11, and children under 3 are free,
Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday – Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 12 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Museum of Science and Industry
Located between the University of Chicago and the lakefront, Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) is a great place to spend a day. With over 2,000 exhibits, everyone is sure to find something they enjoy. The baby chick hatchery features live baby chicks and is a wonderful exhibit for younger children. MSI has a steam locomotive, a German submarine from WWII, and two planes from WWII. Explore all things space in the Henry Crown Space Center, learn about weather in the Science Storm exhibit, and purchase tickets to see a science or nature film in the Giant Dome Theater. On your way out, stop by the gift shop for books, clothes, science kits, and more.
Admission: $21.95 for 12 and over, $12.95 ages 3-11.
Hours: Daily from 9:30 am – 4 pm.
Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art
The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art highlights some of Chicago’s most popular Ukrainian, and Ukranian-American, Artists. With a variety of contemporary art, exhibits focusing on Ukrainian culture, any visitor has a greater understanding of the Ukrainian roots that occupy, and make a difference in Chicago. Admission is donation based, and the institute is open Wednesday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Vegan Museum
Located in the Northwest Suburbs, this exhibit is held at the Itasca Library! Since 2017, The Vegan Museum has been traveling around the US to present their exhibits. Displaying over 30 institutions, moving every 2-3 months, the museum introduces and brings awareness towards veganism. The exhibit walks you through twelve panels of the history and future of veganism. Their presentations make the walkthrough experience memorable, yet informative. The movement is taking place, and the Vegan Museum is making sure we are part of it! The museum will be held at the Itasca Library until January 31. Updates, and locations are found online Plus, found on their website is a list of vegan and vegetarian Chicago-land dining options! Check it out!
Walt Disney’s Birthplace
The happiest place on Earth would be nothing without its creator, Walt Disney! Stop by the restored house, originally designed by Flora and Elias Disney, and soak in the magic. On the corner of Tripp Avenue and Palmer street, explore childhood memories through their online events and understand the creativity that impacted our world and will continue to shape young minds.
Wndr Museum
Test your curiosity and imagination at the WNDR museum! Immerse yourself with art on multiple platforms created by artists, poets, and designers. Their collections are multi-sensory and interactive with a mix of digital content and experiential installations. Become a thinker and creator at WNDR and let your dreams run wild.
Admission: $32 general public, $52 VIP experience, $22 children under 12.
Hours: Monday through Thursday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.