Next time you visit the Windy City be sure to stop by these five unique museums. From virtual reality exhibits to outside art, Chicago has it all. Take your time and visit one museum per day so you can really get a sense of the collection and the surrounding neighborhood.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum © Joedebiase | Dreamstime
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
On a beautiful day, nothing beats the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Interactive displays and a picturesque location make this museum a hit with kids. The 2,700-square-foot Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is a real gem for all ages.
International Museum of Surgical Science
Stop by the International Museum of Surgical Science for an in-depth, fascinating history of all things medical. While this museum may not be for the faint of heart, it is a unique experience for anyone who is curious about medicine.

Adler Planetarum © Benkrut | Dreamstime
Adler Planetarium
Take a tour of the historic Adler Planetarium. This Chicago institution is the nation’s oldest planetarium and consistently voted one of the best things to do in the city.
The Center for Intuitive and Outside Art
The Center for Intuitive and Outside Art offers a different take on art than most institutionalized museums. Chicago is a center of Outsider or naïve, untrained artists and this museum is a testament to their work and lives.

Field Museum © Cmlndm | Dreamstime
Field Museum
Finally, no visit to Chicago would be complete without a trip to the Field Museum. This massive museum started holds more than 26 million artifacts in total and has something for everyone to enjoy.
Take your time and visit all the museums Chicago has to offer — you may just find a new favorite to add to this list.
Read This Next
What Chicago Museum Are You in the Mood For?
Destination
Oct 19, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedSlideshow
Sep 8, 20268 Must-Visit Libraries Around the World
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are eight must-visit libraries around the world.
Sponsored Content
The Province That Surrounds Seoul — And Outshines It
Skip the Seoul Crowds. The Real Korea is in Gyeonggi.
North America
Sep 8, 2026New Upscale Italian Restaurant and Bar Opens in NYC’s West Village
Last month, New York City’s West Village welcomed a new restaurant and bar with some seriously promising dishes and drinks. Floradora is the newest concept from Cody Pruitt and Jacob Cohen, the team also behind Libertine, Chateau Royale and Capitaine.
Destinations / North America
Sep 7, 20265 Unique Glamping Getaways to Take Across the South This Autumn
Did you know glamping accounted for 29 percent of all camping experiences in 2025? The elevated camping experience lets you both enjoy the great outdoors with some comforts you don’t get from just sleeping in a tent.
Sponsored Content
An Adults-Only Resort for All the Milestone Moments
On Saturday, Feb.14, Devossion by Live Aqua celebrated its grand opening, marking a significant milestone for Grupo Posadas and the Live Aqua brand. This adults-only resort focuses on celebration, authentic Mexican experiences and elevated hospitality — perfectly situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Asia
Sep 7, 2026Canopy Opens First Hotel in Southeast Asia
Hilton’s Canopy brand made its debut in Southeast Asia. New Canopy Bangkok Sukhumvit opened last month.

ShareThis