Chicago Museum Guide

Welcome to your ultimate guide to exploring the rich tapestry of museums in Chicago, brought to you by Wander Wise Rentals. Whether you're an art aficionado, a history enthusiast, or a science geek, Chicago's museums offer something for everyone. Discover the world-class exhibits and unique collections that make each museum a must-visit destination.

Art Institute of Chicago

Embark on a cultural journey through the vast collections of the Art Institute, home to an astonishing array of masterpieces spanning thousands of years. From the ancient to the modern, the Art Institute's diverse collections include iconic works by Monet, Van Gogh, Seurat, and Grant Wood.

  • Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, modern art, and the Thorne Miniature Rooms.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily. Admission fee applies, with free entry for Illinois residents on certain days.
  • Official Website: ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

Discover the world-renowned treasures of the Art Institute of Chicago through an exclusive Skip-the-Line Semi-Private Guided Tour, designed for a maximum of 8 people. This intimate and personalized experience offers you a unique opportunity to explore one of the world's leading art museums without the wait and with the expert insights of a knowledgeable guide.

Skip the Line & Book Your Guided Tour Here!


Museum of Science and Industry

Immerse yourself in the world of science and innovation at one of the largest science museums in the world. The Museum of Science and Industry offers interactive exhibits that explore the wonders of technology, physics, and space.

  • Location: 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: U-505 Submarine, Science Storms, and the Coal Mine tour.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily. Admission fee applies, with various ticket packages available.
  • Official Website: MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

Field Museum

The Field Museum, one of the largest natural history museums in the world, invites you to explore its vast collections, ranging from the age of dinosaurs to the cultures of ancient and contemporary societies. Stand face-to-face with SUE, the world's largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex, and marvel at the sheer size of the titanosaur, Máximo, stretching out in the museum's main hall.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore one of Chicago's most iconic institutions. The Field Museum awaits to take you on an extraordinary journey through the natural world and the many cultures that make up our human family. Plan your visit today and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of our world, preserved and presented with care and expertise at The Field Museum.

  • Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: Sue the T. rex, the Ancient Egypt exhibit, and the Hall of Gems.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily. Admission fee applies, with free days for Illinois residents.
  • Official Website: FIELD MUSEUM

Get The Lowest Guaranteed Admission Price Here!

Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

Explore the cutting-edge of art at the Museum of Contemporary Art. With a focus on contemporary works from 1945 onwards, this museum offers thought-provoking exhibitions and performances.

  • Location: 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: Rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, sculpture garden, and public programs.
  • Visitor Info: Open Tuesday through Sunday. Admission fee applies, with free entry for Illinois residents on certain days.
  • Official Website: MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART CHICAGO

Chicago History Museum

Dive into the rich history of Chicago at the Chicago History Museum. Learn about the city's development, its people, and the events that shaped it through a variety of exhibits and collections.

  • Location: 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: The Great Chicago Fire exhibit, Chicago: Crossroads of America, and the costume collection.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily. Admission fee applies, with suggested donation days for Illinois residents.
  • Official Website: CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM

Adler Planetarium

America's first planetarium, the Adler, invites visitors to explore the universe through immersive sky shows, exhibitions, and hands-on activities. It's a gateway to the cosmos, located on Chicago's lakefront.

  • Location: 1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: The Doane Observatory, Mission Moon, and sky shows.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily. Admission fee applies, with free days for Illinois and Indiana residents.
  • Official Website: ADLER PLANETARIUM

The Chicago Children’s Museum

Perfect for families with young children, this museum offers interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to foster learning, creativity, and curiosity in children.

  • Location: Navy Pier, 700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: Dinosaur Expedition, WaterWays, and Tinkering Lab.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily. Admission fee applies, with free evenings and discounted rates available.
  • Official Website: THE CHICAGO CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

International Museum of Surgical Science

A unique museum that explores the history of surgery and medical practices through an extensive collection of surgical instruments, artworks, and artifacts.

  • Location: 1524 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: Ancient surgical instruments, Hall of Immortals, and medical art.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily except major holidays. Admission fee applies, with free days for Illinois residents.
  • Official Website: INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF SURGICAL SCIENCE

Shedd Aquarium 

As one of the world's premier aquariums, Shedd offers an unparalleled experience for all ages, showcasing creatures from every part of the globe and providing insights into the mysterious lives of underwater inhabitants.

  • Location: 200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL
  • Highlights: Encounter everything from majestic beluga whales and playful dolphins to tiny seahorses and vibrant tropical fish.
  • Visitor Info: Open daily except major holidays. Admission fee applies, with free days for Illinois residents.
  • Official Website: SHEDD AQUARIUM


Can't Decide? Get The Chicago CityPASS!

Unlock the best of the Windy City with the Chicago CityPASS, your all-access pass to the city's top attractions and experiences. Ideal for travelers looking to explore Chicago's highlights while enjoying significant savings, the CityPASS offers a curated selection of must-see museums, landmarks, and tours, all bundled into one convenient package.

With the Chicago CityPASS, you'll gain skip-the-line or priority access to iconic attractions like the Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, the Field Museum, and more. Whether you're marveling at the aquatic wonders of the Shedd Aquarium, stepping out onto the Ledge at Willis Tower's Skydeck, or delving into history at the Field Museum, the CityPASS is your ticket to an unforgettable Chicago adventure.

Not only does the CityPASS streamline your sightseeing experience, but it also offers incredible value, saving you up to 50% off combined admission prices. With the flexibility to use your pass over nine consecutive days, you can explore the city at your own pace, without feeling rushed.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to see and do more in Chicago while maximizing your travel budget.

Grab your Chicago CityPASS today and start planning your ultimate city adventure here!!