Museum Campus - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Field Museum of Natural History is a fascinating and educational place to explore. Founded in 1893 as part of the World's Columbian Exposition, The Field Museum showcases collections that span more than 4.5 billion years of history. It houses over 40 million unique specimens and objects from the natural environment, including many dinosaur fossils and ancient artifacts. Visitors can take knowledge packed guided tours through the museum or wander on their own.

The Shedd Aquarium is one of the country's top tourist destinations. The aquarium hosts a wide variety of marine life including sharks, dolphins, turtles, small freshwater fish and rays. It strives to preserve ocean habitats and represents five different habitats from around the world. Visitors can explore each habitat in person or take advantage of interactive digital displays that give information about some of its inhabitants.

Grant Park is one of the most iconic parks established in 1869, this sprawling park has been a hot spot for locals and tourists alike ever since. With a zoo and conservatory, recreation and leisure options abound here. Sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic groves bring families together throughout the year. Special attractions such as the Buckingham Fountain feature regularly in popular Chicago tourist brochures-and offer breathtaking scenery during the summer months!

The Adler Planetarium, has been inspiring guests since 1930. This National Historic Landmark has remained dedicated to advancing the public’s understanding of astronomy and space science. From exploring the wonders of space at their six full-dome theaters, to discovering artifacts from early space exploration in the diverse exhibition halls - Adler provides a wealth of astronomical knowledge and insight.

Buckingham Fountain is a Chicago landmark, Constructed in 1927, the fountain was made to honor the memory of former Chicago mayor, and later Illinois Senator, Kate S. Buckingham. The beautiful fountain rises from a lily pad shaped base and has four bronze seahorses which symbolize the states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Indiana that border Lake Michigan. It operates each day from 8am to 11pm, with every hour featuring a spectacular show of water.

The Museum of Contemporary Photography is the perfect place to explore the inspiring and ever-changing world of photography. With a focus on contemporary and modern work, visitors can learn about the innovative techniques used by photographers from a variety of backgrounds and look at examples from all around the world. From monochromatic street photography to vibrant prints that feature abstract shapes.