Local Guides World
Top Museums in Chicago, United States
Top Rated Museums in Chicago
Pullman House Project
The Art Institute of Chicago
Art Institute of Chicago Columbus Drive Entrance
Fire Museum of Greater Chicago
Color Factory Chicago
South Side Community Art Center
Art Institute of Chicago Columbus Drive Entrance
The Art Institute of Chicago
African American Firefighters Museum
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
Field Museum
Top Reviewed Museums in Chicago
Smart Museum of Art
Field Museum
Museum Campus
African American Firefighters Museum
Skydeck Chicago
Hyde Park Art Center
Chicago Academy of Sciences
International Museum of Surgical Science
Museum of Illusions Chicago
Chinese American Museum of Chicago
Chicago Maritime Museum
Heritage Museum of Asian Art
Reviews
Very very cool museum!! I went with my 8 year old and we both loved it. Tons of amazing optical illusions, and lots of great photo opps. Staff were also super nice and helpful. It took us about an hour to get through the museum
The museum may feel a little expensive but it’s so worth it. Every illusion has a great description and what to look for. Some are more art-like in presentation while others are interactive. We had a blast. The employees were all enthusiastic and worked to make sure we had a great experience. Kendall in particular was fantastic helping us arrange groups for one of the better visual gags. Definitely worth the stop.
Much better than we anticipated ! 5/5 ⭐️
We were looking for an interesting activity to do in downtown Chicago. We went to the museum of illusions as a group of 4 people, stayed there for about 2 hours. Had loads of fun, really interesting to see the different types of illusions and how much there are. Really interactive activity to do with friends and family, it’s perfect for the kids too ! The tour is self-guided and takes between 1-2 hours to complete depending on how much you interact with each station. Recommending this place to friends and family.
We were looking for an interesting activity to do in downtown Chicago. We went to the museum of illusions as a group of 4 people, stayed there for about 2 hours. Had loads of fun, really interesting to see the different types of illusions and how much there are. Really interactive activity to do with friends and family, it’s perfect for the kids too ! The tour is self-guided and takes between 1-2 hours to complete depending on how much you interact with each station. Recommending this place to friends and family.
Lovely, gorgeously appointed museum that covers the scope of the Chinese American experience in Chicago. Multi-level with a fascinating documentary playing on the second floor. The fourth floor library is currently being reorganized, so it's really more of a two story museum, but it's still a must-see.
Perfect for your anatomy buffs & anyone interested in the surgical sciences. My wife & I had the time of our lives here. What a remarkable & fascinating museum. 3 floors to explore - from statues to paintings to ancient instruments, lots to see & read about. Highly recommend & would go here again!
This is a very cool place for pre teen kids to adult. Interesting exhibits and interactive experiences. Well worth the time and cost. The staff is very friendly and helpful in explaining some of the more complex illusions. Noah went out of his way to help us and take our group photos.
A lot of fun was had today. We took the whole family and everyone enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Emma was super helpful and made the visit extra special.
Very cool museum. Both historical and modern showcases of medical tools and methods. If not educational, then very fascinating.
We visited the museum on a Saturday as part of a group project for a university class. Stephen was so welcoming and gave us a brief tour of many of the exhibits on the first floor of the museum. The 16 minute documentary that we watched was very helpful in describing how Chinese Americans came to Chicago and how Chinatown was established. The exhibits on the 2nd floor really get into personal stories of Chinese Americans in Chicago. Overall, this was a great museum to spend a couple of hours in! We really appreciated Stephen's kindness and sharing of information.
There was a large variety of of Chinese art, with great historical information provided for most pieces. I would have liked there to be more art from other Asian cultures, but as a whole, it was a great time.
Fun experience for everyone. The exhibitions are constantly updated with detailed summaries of each object. Truly an eye-opening experience.
Incredible museum in a stunning building! The Chicago Maritime Museum is a fantastic history museum and the staff was delightful. I learned so much about the history of the city and the Great Lakes. 10/10 recommend the museum and checking out the entire building - especially the city views on the 5th floor!
My time at the museum of illusions was wonderful. I went for Valentine’s Day with my beloved and we had no idea what to expect. Boy were my socks knocked off - we come in and there is a giant board of pegs begging to be made into an art piece. We went to town on that board and even got a compliment from an employee. The kaleidoscope exhibit was also quite the thrill. An employee named Syd swooped in like an eagle and offered to take a picture of us, which was great because neither of us could take a picture because one of us had to be at the other end of the kaleidoscope because at the kaleidoscope we had to have Syd take the picture and thank god because it turned out AWESOME. Not only did Syd bestow upon us her grace, positive vibes and servitude, but Noah came in clutch at the upside-down room exhibit where, again, we wanted a picture of the two of us but could not stretch our arms out long enough to take a good picture. Noah snapped a flick and it turned out amazing! Finally, we went to the gift shop to sit down and write these reviews. I could not for the life of me remember the name of the first fellow who complimented our art project, so I asked Naomi who answered with a smile on her face. Thank you, Ian, for giving me the push I needed to disown my parents, leave business school, chase my passion and become a starving artist - I was in such deep denial but after making our peg board project I knew it was my destiny.
This art center has a variety of free exhibits that you can browse at your own pace. The staff were friendly and helpful. Free street parking. A great place for a date or to check out with a group of friends.
Fabulous experience! Three generations, grandma, daughter , granddaughter went and all enjoyed over the top interactive enjoyment!
The staff is excellent, shout out to Seth and Mia for explaining and photography support.
Parking easy and close by and they validate… a $ 60. Parking Fee was $9….. talk about an illusion!
The staff is excellent, shout out to Seth and Mia for explaining and photography support.
Parking easy and close by and they validate… a $ 60. Parking Fee was $9….. talk about an illusion!
So, there I was in Chicago, with just a day left to explore. I had heard about the Skydeck at Willis Tower, but I hadn't really planned on visiting. I thought, why not give it a shot? It's one of those things tourists do, right? And wow, am I glad I went for it. The moment you step onto the Skydeck, it's like the whole city opens up in front of you. You're way up there, on the 103rd floor, and the view is just mind-blowing.
But here's the real showstopper – the glass box, also known as The Ledge. When you step out into it, there's this thrilling, almost surreal feeling. You're suspended in the air, with Chicago's streets and buildings far below. It's exhilarating and a little bit nerve-wracking, but in the best way possible. You're literally standing over the city, with nothing but glass under your feet!
I spent a good amount of time just soaking in the views. You can see for miles – the skyscrapers, Lake Michigan, and on a clear day, even beyond the city limits. It's not just a tourist attraction; it's an experience that gives you a whole new perspective on Chicago. It's a must-do for sure, especially if you want to feel the heartbeat of the city from an entirely unique vantage point.
Honestly, it was the perfect end to my Chicago trip. It’s one of those experiences that makes you appreciate the beauty and scale of a city. So, if you ever find yourself in Chicago with some time to spare, definitely check out the Skydeck. It's a memory you'll cherish long after you're back on solid ground.
But here's the real showstopper – the glass box, also known as The Ledge. When you step out into it, there's this thrilling, almost surreal feeling. You're suspended in the air, with Chicago's streets and buildings far below. It's exhilarating and a little bit nerve-wracking, but in the best way possible. You're literally standing over the city, with nothing but glass under your feet!
I spent a good amount of time just soaking in the views. You can see for miles – the skyscrapers, Lake Michigan, and on a clear day, even beyond the city limits. It's not just a tourist attraction; it's an experience that gives you a whole new perspective on Chicago. It's a must-do for sure, especially if you want to feel the heartbeat of the city from an entirely unique vantage point.
Honestly, it was the perfect end to my Chicago trip. It’s one of those experiences that makes you appreciate the beauty and scale of a city. So, if you ever find yourself in Chicago with some time to spare, definitely check out the Skydeck. It's a memory you'll cherish long after you're back on solid ground.
Wonderful artist talk. Beautiful exhibition. Great family activities
Fascinating museum! Explored the ancestors exhibit to delve into Native American history, ventured through the Egyptian section, and marveled at Sue the T-Rex along with numerous other dinosaurs. An incredible experience!
A must-see while in Chicago! This is a very unique experience that offers city views from the tallest building in Chicago. I made reservations ahead of time and thought the process was very well organized since its timed entry. As you make your way to the Sky Deck elevator, there is trivia, photo opportunities and more of Chicago related information. When you get to the Sky Deck, you start off by looking at different sides of the city, which offers unique photo opportunities. The last turn you come to is The Ledge. The employees will guide you to one of 4 ledges, which you will have a limited amount of time to take pictures (they set timers). They also take your picture with their camera in case you want to buy a photo at the end. When the timer goes off, you’ll exit The Ledge and take the elevator back down to the entrance.
Ever heard of saying ”pulling the earth under my feet". Felt it while standing on it. Can definitely give many extra stars for that. Can't explain in words. This experience must be realized. The kids were so amazed but and much more brave than me.....🫥😶
The sandwiches never disappoint and the chili is the best I've ever had.
I visited with my daughter over christmas and we both loved the place. The exhibits are great and staff are really welcoming. Special hello to Sunshine who welcomed us on arrival. She was amazing!
It is very family friendly and the local bus drops you off right outside.
Highly recommend a visit. You can see the whole place in 4 or 5 hours at a slow pace.
It is very family friendly and the local bus drops you off right outside.
Highly recommend a visit. You can see the whole place in 4 or 5 hours at a slow pace.
You really have to go. Plenty to keep kids eyes and hands busy. The building and grounds are beautiful. Parking isn't that bad l, just pricey. Bathrooms on every floor. Just plan on a lot of walking. If you're planning on buying food here, sell some stock before you go...gets expensive quick.
This was an interesting museum. The admission is $25 and the place is kind of small. However, you can look at some antiquated surgical tools and artwork. Healthcare workers will probably find this much more intriguing than the general public, general public will most likely spend an hour or less here. Very informative on the history.
I visited shortly after becoming a surgical technologist, so learning more about the history of surgery was specially fascinating. It was a nice museum overall, 10/10 I would go again :-)
The enormous Field Museum is a captivating blend of history and science. Its vast halls house diverse exhibits, from ancient civilizations to natural wonders. Walking through, you embark on an immersive adventure, exploring towering dinosaur skeletons, ancient artifacts, and interactive displays. The museum's commitment to education is evident, fostering a deeper understanding of our world. With its neoclassical architecture, the Field Museum stands not just as a collection but as a dynamic hub of learning, inspiring curiosity and leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
The museum is fantastic, there's so much to see and so much information, there's no way to see it all in one day. But, the parking situation was RIDICULOUS. They had cones up directing people arriving in loops going nowhere. $30 for parking and finally got parked after about 25 minutes of that nonsense.
I had come here as a teacher for the students of cool classic during a family event where they were passing out clay. So sadly, I did not get to experience the entire museum, but what I did see and learned about Ruth Duckworth was quite enlightening to see what she had done and overcome for her art to stand proud.
Spectacular! From the moment you step into the museum until you leave! The Field Museum in Chicago is widely praised for its fascinating exhibits, diverse collections, and engaging educational programs. Visitors appreciate its emphasis on natural history and the impressive displays, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in science and culture. You will love it!
Field Museum located at 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605 is an awesome Natural History Museum with tons and tons of exhibitions. Fossils galore too! Egyptian, African, Asian, Dinosaurs l, Minerals too - all great. Only complaint is the signage as it is terrible! Very easy to get lost and end up finally finding an exit only to find out that it’s closed and or emergency only. That got exhausting quickly…….. not good!!! Staff was great, helpful and friendly too. But please, please improve the songs so that people know how to exit that maze!!!
Interesting museum. Not particularly large in size but there's plenty to see if you check out the smaller exhibits. I would guess the average person would spend about an hour here.
Really interesting attractions, with a variety of them interesting for kids and adults. Very polite and friendly staff. They explain the attractions and also help take pictures. Nice clean restrooms and a whole bunch of puzzles available at the exit for kids and adults to play.
The google address is accurate and ride shares can easily access.
The google address is accurate and ride shares can easily access.
An absolute gem of a place! I’ve taken several pottery and printing classes here and they’ve all been fantastic. Instructors and staff are incredible. Would highly recommend!
Skydeck Chicago is an absolute highlight of any visit to the Windy City! This iconic attraction, located atop the Willis Tower, offers an unparalleled experience that combines breathtaking views, thrilling heights, and a dash of history.
The highlight is undoubtedly The Ledge—a series of glass boxes extending from the skyscraper, allowing visitors to stand suspended 1,353 feet above ground level. The adrenaline rush and panoramic views of the city are truly unforgettable. The knowledgeable staff adds to the experience, providing insights into Chicago's rich architectural history and pointing out notable landmarks.
The journey to the Skydeck is an adventure in itself, with a high-speed elevator whisking you to the top in a matter of seconds. Once there, the 360-degree views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan are simply awe-inspiring. The interactive exhibits on the history and construction of the Willis Tower engage visitors of all ages.
Timing your visit during sunset is highly recommended, as the city transitions from day to night, casting a warm glow over the skyline. The facility is well-maintained, and the crowd management ensures a comfortable experience.
Skydeck Chicago is a must-visit for tourists seeking an exhilarating and panoramic introduction to the city. From the moment you step onto the glass floor, you'll understand why this attraction deserves its five-star rating. An absolute Chicago gem!
The highlight is undoubtedly The Ledge—a series of glass boxes extending from the skyscraper, allowing visitors to stand suspended 1,353 feet above ground level. The adrenaline rush and panoramic views of the city are truly unforgettable. The knowledgeable staff adds to the experience, providing insights into Chicago's rich architectural history and pointing out notable landmarks.
The journey to the Skydeck is an adventure in itself, with a high-speed elevator whisking you to the top in a matter of seconds. Once there, the 360-degree views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan are simply awe-inspiring. The interactive exhibits on the history and construction of the Willis Tower engage visitors of all ages.
Timing your visit during sunset is highly recommended, as the city transitions from day to night, casting a warm glow over the skyline. The facility is well-maintained, and the crowd management ensures a comfortable experience.
Skydeck Chicago is a must-visit for tourists seeking an exhilarating and panoramic introduction to the city. From the moment you step onto the glass floor, you'll understand why this attraction deserves its five-star rating. An absolute Chicago gem!
It was my first time here. I'm glad I came to visit the & see the view. It's amazing day or night. I didn't like that they rushed us out of the deck for pictures, but it was nice. Apparently, they only give you 2 min to take pics, which is crazy for the price you pay, but either way, it was a great experience. 👌💯
The large museum is located on three floors. Be prepared to spend a whole day if you want to go around and see all the exhibitions, and maybe not just one)). The queue at the checkout was not long, but the service was very slow. At the time of the visit, the weather outside was cool, all visitors were wearing outerwear, but the wardrobe was not working. According to employees, the wardrobe opens in mid-November. If you come alone with two children, be prepared to wear three jackets, which is very inconvenient.
The museum is interesting if, as a child, you adored dinosaurs and loved Indian games, or if you are delighted with zoology and archeology. The average tourist may find this museum a bit boring and too big compared to other technology museums. So when I'm making a list of museums to visit in Chicago, this one definitely won't be at the top of my list.
The museum is interesting if, as a child, you adored dinosaurs and loved Indian games, or if you are delighted with zoology and archeology. The average tourist may find this museum a bit boring and too big compared to other technology museums. So when I'm making a list of museums to visit in Chicago, this one definitely won't be at the top of my list.
Really fun and great experience. I think it's priced very well for what you see and do. You get 2 minutes to take pictures and videos. When that's up you can get back in line to get another 2 minutes. Great views, especially at night. Just keep checking the weather making sure there's no clouds. You get your picture taken that you can purchase later. The gift shop is nice but very pricey. Highly recommended
There are a lot of things to see in the museum, which is great but they make you pay a lot more money once you are inside. Several area they charge additional fees for. I was disappointed. It wasn't cheap to get in. If you had time and money to do it all it could be very expensive!
Very nice views, a bit crowded, so the time on the glass ledge is very limited. I liked that there were plenty of food options on the 1st floor and also enjoyed color factory while I waited for my time slot. The store is really well stocked and the prices weren't too bad.
The customer service here was phenomenal. They noticed my birthday crown and offered me a birthday button to wear, which was super cool! The views were gorgeous! Overall, it was a great way to kick off our Chicago/Birthday Trip!
We bought the City Pass as well, which we highly recommend for the best value!
We bought the City Pass as well, which we highly recommend for the best value!
We attended the Halloween Suaree and had so much fun. Buy the gold pass, it's worth it. You get to have 6 free drinks and chocolate. There are clues in each room and a fun quiz if you want to try. Get an uber or someone to drop you off. No parking. The ghouls n spirits are amazing. The crowd was fun too. A must try.
Great aquarium! I got us tickets to the penguin encounter. We got to spend 45 min with a penguin. It was very informative and fun. For both of us it was almost $200.00, it also includes a general admission to the aquarium. The shows and the exhibits are great. There are a lot of kid areas. They also have a couple of food options and vending machines. The staff is super friendly and helpful. We have been here a couple of times, and it's always a great experience. I would Uber or Lyft there. So you don't have to deal with parking.
Chicago museums are absolutely a sight to visit as they are spectacular! Just the architecture alone is magnificent. Once inside you will not be disappointed.
It was a cool aquarium. Pretty expensive though, and even though my family works in Chicago and lives only 5 mins outside Chiago City limits, they would not give us a resident rate. We enjoyed the day but will never go back. The area outside was fabulous. So much to do in the area that we will explore elsewhere. The Veteran monument outside Soldier Stadium was spectacular
Well-presented information and exhibitions. Info is good for adults and teens, detailed, accessible to the layman but not patronizing at all. Young children would probably be done after 20 minutes; not very interactive but there are detailed model ships, canoes, and diver's suits if they're into that.
Quiet and not crowded at all so you can really spend time examining the displays and artifacts. Spent about an hour taking it all in, learned a lot. There's a small library with a good selection of vintage books if you want to spend more time. The curator herself was there to answer any questions.
Quiet and not crowded at all so you can really spend time examining the displays and artifacts. Spent about an hour taking it all in, learned a lot. There's a small library with a good selection of vintage books if you want to spend more time. The curator herself was there to answer any questions.
I've been here three previous visits when was very happy with bringing someone who had been there before. Their website is very clear that there have been closing for setup for a party for Halloween. What it doesn't disclose is that several rooms are typically were available with displays now we're closed because of the party other rooms that were open add less exhibits. One room had a cough and haphazardly shoved in so you basically couldn't walk into the room another room that look like it was an old drugstore I think that stuff placed in the front of it so you couldn't walk in at all. I did call up the museum after the fact and expressed my opinion that I paid a hundred percent admission fee and received about 50 to 75% and what typically is available that wasn't correct. The person I spoke to agree with pass it up the chain. That really helps me a lot I said and ended. So I would make a phone call before you go make sure that you're going to get 100% of what you're paying for and not less.
Interesting museum but do call ahead to find out if the exhibits will be fully open as they had covered up many artifacts because of a special Halloween event that evening which they were hosting but was not listed on their website.
The museum does a great job of displaying Chicago's maritime history. If you didn't think of Chicago as an important maritime location, you'll learn a lot when you visit the museum. And even if you know a lot, you're likely to learn more.
The museum is fairly small but does have some very interesting exhibits and models... My favorite was USS Wolverine, in World War II training aircraft carrier that I had no idea about. It also has a great exhibit on the Eastland disaster which very few people know about even in Chicago. Though it's a bit of a drive away from downtown, if you are a maritime history buff it's a must see.
Note: there is currently construction going on not schedule to be done until 2027.
Overall the aquarium is a great learning experience. They sealife of all sorts. Everything from ocean animals to the Great lakes.
Everything is well marked and a teaching moment for younger kids and adults. It's definitely fun for the whole family.
The penguins and dolphins were our favorite!
Overall the aquarium is a great learning experience. They sealife of all sorts. Everything from ocean animals to the Great lakes.
Everything is well marked and a teaching moment for younger kids and adults. It's definitely fun for the whole family.
The penguins and dolphins were our favorite!
We visited the Shed Aquarium, and it was all I had hoped it would be. This is the first time I have been here, and it was an awesome experience! Dolphins, fish, crabs, whales, turtles, stingrays, this place has them all. Next time, I would like to visit the Planetarium!
Free parking and admission. The galleries are good and have a cafe attachment. The staff is very engaging. I would recommend this place.
However, i wish they had a gift shop or some type of swag section.
However, i wish they had a gift shop or some type of swag section.
Free for art lovers. Have to pay fpr parking though
VERY small museum. Worth seeing if you want to learn more about Chicago's history and are in the area.
Fire Fighter dreaming.... City of Chicago, open this place up already! Opportunity awaits!
FREE art museum on the University of Chicago Campus. They had a great exhibit called "Not All Realisms" showing the influence photography can have on telling a story.
Come visit here after you see Amanda William's Redefining Redlining Art Installation where she and others planted 100,000 red tulips to visually depict the impact redlining had on the Washington Park neighborhood.
Head over to Roux Restaurant afterwards for some delicious biscuits and gravy!
Come visit here after you see Amanda William's Redefining Redlining Art Installation where she and others planted 100,000 red tulips to visually depict the impact redlining had on the Washington Park neighborhood.
Head over to Roux Restaurant afterwards for some delicious biscuits and gravy!
Amazing and beautiful museum. Wonderful exhibits. A very cared-for space with a fascinating history about the unique natural and then human-built environment that Chicagou was/is. I spent two hours there to fully learn about our maritime history.
I've been coming to this museum since I was a 1st year at UofC over 10 yrs ago, I've always felt welcome and warmth from the staff here. The museum itself usually has an exhibit dedicated to art education, so the overarching theme here is to welcome outsiders into the art space - it's a literal extension of the classrooms located across the garden area, serving to offer art education and experience to the larger public. There are also free storage lockers so you can view the exhibits unencumbered, and indoor/outdoor tables and seating. Nowadays, I bring my kids with me and the museum staff always goes out of their way to make sure my kids fully enjoy their time here. We all love the Smart Museum.
I didn't get a chance to go it, however I 'window shopped' and what I saw seemed very interesting. I'll definitely come back to tour this Museum. I didn't know it was here.
I love The place and The innovative approach and passionate museum staff who do a lot to make the museum as welcoming and open for everyone as possible! We were so lucky to visit one of the concerts which was truly amazing and intense experience. I cried how good it was.
I only got to visit the exterior... but from what I got to see, I so wanted to go in and explore. Maybe next time.
This quaint yet dense museum explores the history of Chicago and its waterways I would definitely recommend it if you want to go too a museum but don't want the hustle and bustle of The Field Museum or The Museum of Science and Industry
Such a vibrant space and beautiful art around the facility.
Amazing, such great art and full of talented artists. They do amazing things for the community. Their open houses and shows are inviting and fun. It's a huge space filled with so many different medium of art from portraits to installations you gotta stop in and check it out if you even think you might be missing some art in your life.
It’s a small art gallery located near the Uchicago library. It’s full of fancy modern art pieces. It does not take long to see all the exhibition, but I liked it very much. Creative installments made of tar paper, plastic straws, and cards are just amazingly cool. It’s a free exhibition, so if you are near it’s a definitely a place to go.
Museum was little but free. Very enjoyable. Only downside is having to parallel park. But if you can parallel park not a problem. Parking was free though.
Very nice we were shooting an Episode of Chicago PD
Great FREE museum. Small but mighty! Wonderful exhibits, friendly staff, nice little coffee counter. Love Nick Caves Soundsuit, and the Mark Rothko! We take our out of town visitors here. It's a great resource for the area!