Best Museums in Chicago

Real videos of Museums in Chicago — 12 places, filmed by creators on the ground.


Ranked venues

  1. InteractiveInnovativeContemporaryArt installationsImmersive exhibitsWorkshops

    About the venue

    Wndr Museum is an immersive experience located at 1130 W Monroe St in Chicago, featuring interactive art installations and innovative exhibits. The museum showcases a blend of art and technology, with spaces designed for engagement and exploration. It's a popular destination for both art lovers and families, offering workshops and special events throughout the year. The museum houses installations from various contemporary artists, making it a unique space for creativity.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases a visit to the WNDR Museum in Chicago, featuring various interactive exhibits and installations. The person with pink hair explores different sections, including mirrored walls, colorful tunnels, and projection-based displays.

    1130 W Monroe St

  2. WhimsicalColorfulInteractiveImmersive exhibitsSprinkle poolGiant swing

    About the venue

    Museum of Ice Cream Chicago, located on N Michigan Ave, offers a whimsical and interactive experience dedicated to ice cream. Opened in 2017, the museum features colorful installations and immersive exhibits, allowing visitors to delve into the history and culture surrounding ice cream. Popular installations include a sprinkle pool and a giant ice cream sandwich swing. This family-friendly attraction has quickly become a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases various areas within the Museum of Ice Cream in Chicago, featuring a skeleton figure, a pink train car, a dining area with spiderwebs, a bar with a periodic table of ice cream elements, a jelly bean room, a cherry-themed room, a donut-themed room, a whipped cream-themed room, a carnival game area, and a candy cane ball pit.

    435 N Michigan Ave

  3. $$EducationalInteractiveFamily-friendlyU-505 SubmarineHands-on exhibitsCoal mine

    About the venue

    The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is one of the largest science museums in the Western Hemisphere, featuring over 400,000 square feet of exhibit space. Visitors can explore hands-on exhibits that cover various scientific fields from physics to biology. Notable attractions include the U-505 Submarine, the only German U-boat in the United States, and a working coal mine exhibit. The museum is ideal for families, students, and anyone curious about science.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases a visit to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, featuring various exhibits such as a blue-lit tunnel, a large Earth projection, a smoke tornado, and a lightning demonstration.

    5700 S Lake Shore Dr

  4. $$EducationalInspiringInteractiveInteractive exhibitsAstronomical showsStunning views

    About the venue

    Adler Planetarium, located at 1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL, is America’s first planetarium, opening its doors in 1930. This popular science museum features interactive exhibits and a variety of astronomical shows, attracting visitors of all ages. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline and a well-kept park surrounding the area for outdoor enjoyment. Special events like star parties and telescope viewings enhance the experience for astronomy enthusiasts.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases various exhibits at the Adler Planetarium, including the exterior view, a dark tunnel with colorful lights, displays about Earth and the Moon, a brochure for shows, a projection of a cartoon character, a diorama of a cityscape, and a hallway with red and purple lighting.

    1300 S Lake Shore Dr

  5. EducationalInteractiveCulturalAncient replicasHands-on workshopsCommunity events

    About the venue

    Field Museum Mayas Farming Village, located in Chicago, Illinois, offers an interactive experience showcasing the agricultural practices of ancient Maya civilization. The exhibit features life-sized replicas and artifacts, alongside educational workshops and tours for visitors. Designed to engage families and students, the area is rich in history and cultural significance. Regular events enhance the learning experience and invite community involvement.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases a museum exhibit featuring a stone doorway, a display about farming villages, and various artifacts including pottery, baskets, and corn. The camera pans across these exhibits, providing a detailed view of the historical items.

  6. ArtisticEngagingInteractiveRotating exhibitionsCommunity workshopsArtist talks

    About the venue

    Exhibition Hub Art Center, located in Chicago, provides a platform for contemporary artists to showcase their works in an engaging environment. The space frequently hosts rotating exhibitions and community workshops, encouraging interaction with the arts. The hub features approximately 3,000 square feet of gallery space in an industrial-chic setting. Visitors can also participate in special events that include artist talks and hands-on art-making sessions.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases various Disney memorabilia, including costumes, props, and awards, displayed in a museum-like setting. A woman in a white dress interacts with some of the exhibits, guiding viewers through the Disney 100 Exhibit.

  7. MagicalInteractiveCelebratoryInteractive experiencesMemorabilia displaysEngaging storytelling

    About the venue

    The Disney 100 Exhibit in Chicago celebrates a century of Disney magic through immersive exhibits and displays. Opened in 2023, this limited-time attraction features interactive experiences, memorabilia, and detailed storytelling about iconic Disney characters and films. Located in a downtown venue, it draws visitors of all ages, allowing fans to engage with the rich history of Disney. Reservations may be required due to the popularity of the exhibit.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases a visit to the Disney 100 Exhibit in Chicago, featuring various Disney characters and memorabilia. It includes scenes of people interacting with exhibits, such as a teacup ride and a display of Oswald the Lucky Rabbit.

    2367 W Logan Blvd., Chicago, IL

  8. $$EducationalEngagingFamily-friendlyInteractive exhibitsAquatic theatreDaily encounters

    About the venue

    Shedd Aquarium, located on S Lake Shore Dr in Chicago, has been a cornerstone of marine education and conservation since 1930. Home to over 32,000 animals, the aquarium features interactive exhibits and a stunning aquatic theatre. Offering daily animal encounters and a diverse array of marine life, it draws both families and tourists. The on-site cafes provide light meals and snacks ideal for a full day of exploration.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases various aquatic animals at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, including moray eels, stingrays, jellyfish, seahorses, penguins, dolphins, caimans, anacondas, piranhas, clownfish, axolotls, rays, sharks, and sea lions. It also includes a view of the Chicago skyline during sunset.

    1200 S Lake Shore Dr

  9. $$CulturalEducationalInspiringExtensive collectionSpecial exhibitionsSerene gardens

    About the venue

    The Art Institute of Chicago, located on South Michigan Avenue, is a renowned art museum housing an extensive collection of artworks from various periods. Founded in 1879, it features over 300,000 pieces, including famous works by Van Gogh and Monet. Regularly hosting special exhibitions and community events, the museum attracts a diverse crowd of art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Its serene gardens and café also provide a perfect spot to relax after exploring the galleries.

    What the videos show

    The video captures a panoramic view of a modern art gallery with visitors walking around, looking at exhibits, and sitting on a couch. The camera pans slowly to the right, revealing more of the gallery space, including a young woman seated on the floor looking at her phone while holding a blue jacket over her lap.

    111 S Michigan Ave

  10. EducationalInteractiveHistoricDinosaursAncient Egypt40 million

    About the venue

    The Field Museum, located at 1400 S Lake Shore Dr in Chicago, Illinois, is an expansive natural history museum established in 1893. It houses over 40 million specimens, including dinosaurs like the iconic Sue, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil in the world. The museum offers interactive exhibits, such as the Ancient Egypt exhibit featuring real mummies, making it especially popular with families and school groups. The museum’s robust schedule of temporary exhibitions and educational programs adds depth to its offerings throughout the year.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases a museum exhibit, starting with a detailed view of a carved wooden totem pole and panning across other similar poles. It then transitions to a woman smiling and gesturing towards a dinosaur skeleton exhibit. The video concludes with a brief view of red birds near water and a mannequin dressed in traditional Native American attire.

    1400 S Lake Shore Dr

  11. HistoricIconicTourist-friendlyHistoric landmarkPhoto opportunityArchitecture

    About the venue

    Chicago Water Tower, located at 806 N Michigan Ave, is a historic landmark that dates back to 1869. This intricately designed tower is one of the few structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire and now serves as a popular tourist attraction and photo opportunity. The surrounding area features high-end shopping and dining options, making it a strategic stop for visitors exploring the Magnificent Mile. With its iconic architecture, it stands as a testament to Chicago's resilient history.

    What the videos show

    The video showcases a vibrant butterfly exhibit with colorful butterflies fluttering around a person taking a selfie. The exhibit features lush greenery and neon lights, creating a whimsical atmosphere.

    806 N Michigan Ave

  12. EducationalCulturalInteractiveT-rex skeleton40 millionSpecial exhibits

    About the venue

    Field Museum in Chicago is one of the largest natural history museums in the world, which has been inspiring visitors since it opened in 1921. Home to over 40 million specimens, it features exhibits including Sue, the famous T-rex skeleton, and artifacts from ancient civilizations. The museum is an educational hub, attracting students, families, and tourists alike, who appreciate the interactive displays and knowledgeable staff. Regular programming, including special exhibits and seasonal events, enhances its appeal.

    What the videos show

    The video begins with a view of a gray carpeted floor and a person's feet walking towards a green wall. The camera then pans up to reveal a display case containing fossils and information cards, including a picture of two animals eating leaves. It continues to pan across the room, showcasing various exhibits and artifacts from different time periods, with a focus on a large skeletal structure prominently displayed.

    904 S May St