Chicago Museums and Attractions Where Even Adults Can Learn a Thing or Two

No one’s ever too old to learn a thing or two. Here are four Chicago museums and attractions where you might just be surprised at what you discover, no matter your age.

The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago

This fantastic museum is one of the world’s largest museums of science and industry. It covers just about every branch of science and it puts on some pretty spectacular events and holiday special programming as well. If you visit during December, you’ll be treated to the museum’s annual Christmas tree display, which includes 50 trees and the four-story Grand Tree.

The Field Museum

The Field Museum is a natural history museum that got its fame for being the home of Sue the T-Rex, but there’s much more to see beyond dinosaur bones. Explore mummies, gemstones, plants, animals and every corner of the natural world.

Adler Planetarium

At Adler Planetarium — located conveniently near The Field Museum, in case you want to hit up two or three museums during one afternoon — you can enjoy a range of special programming and stellar exhibits, but see if you can’t make one of the planetarium’s Adler After Dark evenings. The adults-only events occur the third Thursday of every month (though the programming is momentarily paused until February for a revamp) and typically includes cocktails, live entertainment, special guests and more.

Shedd Aquarium

And right near Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, with plenty of sea life for you to observe and enjoy, whether you prefer the slinky snakes and vicious carnivorous fish of the Amazon, or the colorful vibrancy of more tropical waters.