The Best Science Museums in Chicago

North America / United States of America / Chicago /

Technology Museums, Natural History Museums, and More

Chicago has many world renowned museums. Whether you're interested in science and technology, nature, or life sciences, these museums are some of the best science museums in Chicago.
Adler Planetarium
Adler Planetarium
This planetarium and museum focuses on the study of astronomy and astrophysics. It was established in 1930, making it the first planetarium in the country. It is also part of Chicago's Museum Campus. From outside of the museum you can enjoy a skyline view of the city, and when the weather is calm you might even catch it's reflection in the water.
1300 South Lake Shore Drive, South Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60605
Website
The Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museum is one of the largest national history museums in the world. It has impressive exhibits and educational programs as well as a large collection of specimen and artifacts. The exhibits are diverse and show fossils, cultures, and interactive programming that the whole family can enjoy.
1400 South Lake Shore Drive, South Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60605
Website
Interested in more travel advice for Chicago? Check out The Best Playgrounds in Chicago and The Best Squares and Plazas in Chicago.
Museum of Science and Industry
Museum of Science and Industry
This informative science museum has unique exhibits on everything from mirrors and mazes to the weather. It's a very interactive museum that's perfect for visitors of all ages. There's a restored U-505 German submarine as well as a simulated coal mine. The unique exhibits at this museum make it a popular destination within the city.
5700 S Lake Shore Dr., Hyde Park, Chicago, IL, 60637
Website
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum offers educational exhibits on the natural world. There are exhibits that cover a number of habitats including the prairies and river ecosystems. There's also an outdoor nature trail (1/3 mile) and a butterfly room.
2430 N Cannon Dr, Lincoln Park, Chicago, 60614
Website
International Museum of Surgical Science
This unique museum is run by The International College of Surgeons and has a number of interesting exhibits including photographs, sculptures, medical equipment, skeletons, medical specimens, and a library with more than 5,000 rare medical texts.
1524 North Lake Shore Drive, Gold Coast, Chicago, Illinois, 60611
Website
How much does it cost?

Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $34 to $133. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $52. A few of the best options are below.

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Chicago has plenty more to offer, so see also our other articles: Best Things to do in Hyde Park, Chicago and Chicago Bucket List: The Best Places to See and Educational Places and Activities in Chicago and Things to Do In Chicago on a Rainy Day.
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