Windy City Wonders: Exploring Chicago’s Museums
Visiting Chicago is an immersive experience where history, architecture, and culture seamlessly blend together. When you walk through the bustling streets, there’s a unique combination of historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers.
The Windy City offers endless opportunities to explore, learn, and be inspired. On my visit, I dedicated an entire day to exploring some iconic museums, and it was absolutely amazing. AAA Trip Canvas helped me find these must-see destinations in this massive city.
Interact with Art at the Color Factory
The Color Factory was my first stop, and it definitely felt more like a fun playground than a regular museum. The interactive art house was full of vibrant hues with playful installations designed to immerse you in the joy and wonder of color.
The green room with the ball pit transported me back to my childhood and the rainbow horoscope room guided me to what color connects to my birthday. There was even a room with massive flowers and floating confetti!
See Innovations at the Museum of Science and Industry
Next on my list was the Museum of Science and Industry, which AAA Trip Canvas lists as one of the largest science museums in the Western Hemisphere. The entire place houses more than 35,000 artifacts and countless exhibits that encompass a wide range of scientific and industrial fields.
I really enjoyed checking out the Blue Paradox exhibit. It dives deep into the world of ocean conservation with stunning visual displays and installations. I learned more about the impact of plastic pollution and the urgent need for sustainable solutions.
Admire Aquatic Marvels at the Shedd Aquarium
Then, I headed to Chicago’s Museum Campus along the scenic lakefront to explore two of the city's premier attractions: the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum.
Recognized as one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, the Shedd Aquarium provides an unparalleled glimpse into a diverse array of marine life—from the Amazon River basin to the coral reefs of the Pacific Ocean. I was so excited to see beluga whales, sharks, and so much more.
Uncover Ancient History at the Field Museum
The Field Museum is a journey into natural history with classic exhibits like dinosaur skeletons and ancient mummies. I was honestly overwhelmed by the sheer size and scale of the fossils. It was incredible to see the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered.
The Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum are located next to each other, so you can easily visit both in one day. Plus, you can save up to 55% on tickets by getting a CityPASS at AAA.com/Tickets.
Delve Deeper into Chicago
I had such a wonderful day exploring Chicago’s dynamic museums. And there’s so many more to see! This city is a cultural hub for art, science, and history. With the help of AAA, you can plan your own trip to Chicago.