The Best Museums To Visit In The Chicago Area

Chicago is absolutely brimming with endless attractions, events, and possibilities for excitement in this vast, sprawling city. 

One of the main things Chicago invests in is its thriving arts and culture scene, from museums to art galleries, to theaters, and much more. 

Its collection of various and specific museums showcases just that, and its free museum days proves just how much the city wants to get its locals involved in its ever-growing scene. 

We’ve listed just a few of the countless, incredible must see museums in the Chicago area that you can spend hours checking out with family and friends or even alone. After all, you may want to go at your own pace, spending hours exploring. 

Chicago History Museum 

The iconic Chicago History Museum which was first known as the Chicago Historical Society is a beloved museum in the city that showcases the past through beautiful exhibitions. 

There is even the museum’s Research Library which you can register for access to look through thousands of photographs, artifacts, and publications which succinctly document the city’s rich history. 

Located inside the Lincoln Park near Old Town, it also provides a stunning stroll along the lake, either before or after taking a look at the exhibits. 

Museum Of Contemporary Art 

One of the largest museums in the world dedicated to art created after the 1950s, the Museum Of Contemporary Art is widely known for hosting major exhibitions.

Showcasing beloved artists like David Bowie, Takashi Murakami, and Virgil Abloh, there are even several exhibits showing off rising local and international talents and artists. 

One of the most popular museums in the city by far, and even nationally, many come from all over to stunning the beauty that the Museum of Contemporary Art has to offer. 

Museums Of Science And Industry

An incredible museum which is perfect for the entire family to explore, take a trip down to the building that was originally built for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. 

Kids will love this science museum with exhibits that let you experience a simulated tornado, or even a maze of mirrors, both the younger and older crowds will love this amazing place. 

With displays showcasing restored German submarines and a recreation of a Chicago street from 1910, you’ll simply fall in love with a blast from the past that is hard to resist.