The 10 Best Museums in Chicago

While Chicago may be known worldwide for its spectacular city skyline, delicious dining destinations and awe-inspiring art scene, it is also home to many of the country’s most incredible museums. Art enthusiasts, culinary connoisseurs, science lovers and history buffs can unite to appreciate Chicago’s incredible museum scene, celebrating the city’s rich culture and unbelievable legacy.

No matter where your interests may lie, rest assured that the Windy City has many museums to keep you captivated day in and day out. Here are some of the best museum destinations to help take your dream vacation to new heights.

1. The Art Institute of Chicago

• Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $32
• Contact Information: 312-443-3600

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago is home to an extensive collection spanning both cultures and centuries. With over 300,000 pieces from masters including Picasso, Monet and Dali as well as exciting exhibitions highlighting works from ancient civilizations, this magnificent museum is a must-see for art lovers of all levels.

2. The Field Museum

• Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $16
• Contact Information: 312-922-9410

If you’re looking for an innovative, imaginative and immersive museum experience that takes you back in time, look no further than the Field Museum. One of Chicago’s most beloved destinations, guests can wander through a looming array of dinosaur skeletons before exploring several exhibits highlighting our ever-advancing world from prehistoric eras through Ancient Egypt and the great North American Plains. A divine look at all things natural history, this exquisite museum holds unique treasures around every corner.

3. The National Museum of Mexican Art

• Location: 1852 W 19th St, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: Free
• Contact Information: 312-738-1503

Travelers looking to explore the very best cultural experiences Chicago has to offer should make their way toward Pilsen and the National Museum of Mexican Art. Located in the heart of Chicago’s Latin center, this stunning site celebrates everything about Mexican and Chicano art and culture. From their impressive collection of art and artifacts to their explosive exhibits showcasing contemporary masters, this museum highlights this rich culture’s impact on the city.

4. The Lincoln Park Conservatory

• Location: 2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: Suggested Donation of $10
• Contact Information: 773-883-7275

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s scenic Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Conservatory is a whimsical horticultural wonderland. Made up of four distinct display houses, the conservatory is home to over 1,000 different types of plant species. A peaceful escape from the usual hustle and bustle of Chicago’s busy streets, this is also one of the city’s most spectacular photo-ops.

5. The Museum of Science and Industry

• Location: 5700 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $25.95
• Contact Information: 773-684-1414

A beautiful museum paying homage to the wonders of both nature and man, The Museum of Science and Industry offers a fascinating range of interactive exhibits, wonderful working replicas and even a five-story domed theater showcasing the phenomena found throughout the world around us. Striving to spark the imagination and creativity of every guest, this one-of-a-kind museum will have you thinking about the way the world works from new and exciting perspectives.

6. The Museum of Contemporary Art

• Location: 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $22
• Contact Information: 312-280-2660

Located in the heart of Downtown Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a mecca of all things modern culture. Allowing guests to experience the ideas and innovations of living masters, the museum challenges you to question what you know about today’s culture, society and legacy. An abundant space filled with the very best of Chicago’s creativity, this spectacular museum offers constantly changing exhibits to both encourage and inspire.

7. The American Writers Museum

• Location: 180 North Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $14
• Contact Information: 312-374-8790

Literature lovers will find themselves utterly enchanted with this one-of-a-kind destination. A museum dedicated to the rich literary history of the United States, the American Writers Museum allows visitors to explore the works and lives of some of the country’s most renowned and prolific authors. The museum is the very first of its kind and is an absolute must for bookworms of all ages.

8. The Chicago Children’s Museum

• Location: 700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $21
• Contact Information: 312-527-1000

Located in the middle of Chicago’s Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is an undisputable world of wonder for young minds. Filled with exciting exhibits and interactive displays designed to inspire fun, adventure and learning, this fantastic museum is an absolute must for families with young and curious explorers.

9. The Chicago History Museum

• Location: 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $17
• Contact Information: 312-642-4600

Celebrating the fascinating and sometimes eccentric history of the Windy City, the Chicago History Museum deep dives into Chicago’s rich past. Home to over 23 million artifacts and documents, this amazing museum truly brings numerous historic events to life through interactive exhibits and immersive displays.

10. Shedd Aquarium

• Location: 1200 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL
• Price: Basic Admission: $19.95
• Contact Information: 312-939-2438

One of Chicago’s most beloved landmarks and one of the most popular attractions in the city, the Shedd Aquarium allows guests to dive headfirst into the depths of the world’s marine landscape. Home to more than 1,500 species of fish, marine mammals, birds, snakes and amphibians, this exquisite aquarium is a fantastic site for nature lovers of all ages.

With a diverse range of enriching and educational experiences around every corner, it’s no wonder why Chicago is becoming one of the country’s most desirable destinations. Whether you're looking for interactive explorations of the world around you or an up-close look at some of the world's most coveted works of art, this city has it all.

Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Chicago today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.