Illinois is a treasure trove for museum lovers. From world-renowned art institutions in Chicago to unique small-town gems, the state offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Discover everything from ancient artifacts and contemporary art to science exhibits, historic homes, and quirky collections that celebrate Illinois’ diverse heritage.
Museum Exhibits and Events
Interactive exhibits and cultural events happening statewide
Whether you're planning a weekend outing or a seasonal adventure, Illinois is packed with engaging museum exhibits and cultural events year-round. Experience hands-on science demonstrations, limited-time art showcases, historical reenactments, and family-friendly festivals that highlight the creativity and stories of communities across the state. There's always something new to explore, no matter where you are in Illinois.
History Museums in Illinois
History museums in Illinois showcase the state’s political, social, and industrial development, featuring exhibits on notable figures like Abraham Lincoln, key historical events, and life in different eras across urban and rural communities.
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The Clarke House Museum
The Clarke House Museum, Chicago’s oldest surviving house, offers a glimpse into domestic life in the 1850s. Furnished in period style, it reflects Greek Revival architecture and the everyday experiences of a pre-Civil War urban family.
The Clarke House Museum -
The Burpee Museum of Natural History
The Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford features exhibits on paleontology, geology, and ecology, including the famous juvenile T. rex "Jane" and displays of Ice Age mammals and regional natural history.
The Burpee Museum of Natural History -
The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center
The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie presents the history of the Holocaust through survivor testimonies, artifacts, and interactive exhibits, with a focus on human rights, social justice, and the fight against hate.
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The Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum
The Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum in Pontiac showcases classic cars, memorabilia, and the history of the Pontiac and Oakland automobile brands, highlighting American automotive design and innovation.
The Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum -
The Galena & U.S. Grant Museum
The Galena & U.S. Grant Museum explores the history of Galena and its most famous resident, Ulysses S. Grant, with exhibits on 19th-century life, local industry, and Grant’s rise from Galena store clerk to Civil War general and U.S. president.
The Galena & U.S. Grant Museum -
The John Deere Pavilion
The John Deere Pavilion in Moline highlights the history and innovation of John Deere, featuring vintage and modern equipment, interactive exhibits, and insights into agriculture, engineering, and the brand’s global impact.
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The Joliet Area Historical Museum
The Joliet Area Historical Museum explores the rich history of Joliet through exhibits on local industry, architecture, transportation, and community life, with displays and artifacts that showcase the city's cultural and historical development.
The Joliet Area Historical Museum
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Step Into the Life and Legacy of America’s 16th President
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield brings the life and times of the 16th U.S. president to life through immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and state-of-the-art storytelling. Visitors can explore Lincoln’s journey from his early years to the White House, the Civil War, and his enduring legacy, all presented in a dynamic, engaging setting that combines history with modern museum design.
Chicago Museums
Chicago is home to some of the most iconic museums in the country, offering unforgettable experiences for art lovers, science enthusiasts, and history buffs. The Art Institute showcases world-famous works, while the Field Museum features natural wonders including Sue, the largest T. rex ever found. The Museum of Science and Industry impresses with hands-on exhibits and a real WWII submarine. At the lakefront, the Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium explore the skies and seas with immersive shows and vibrant displays.
The Field Museum
The Field Museum in Chicago is one of the world’s great natural history museums, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through time. Home to the famous T. rex “Sue,” the museum features fascinating exhibits on ancient civilizations, dazzling gemstones, and ecosystems from around the globe. Located on the scenic lakefront Museum Campus, it’s a must-visit destination for families, history buffs, and curious minds of all ages.
The Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium in Chicago features diverse aquatic habitats, from the Amazon River to the Pacific Ocean, and is home to thousands of marine animals including sharks, rays, dolphins, and colorful reef fish.
Shedd Aquarium Shedd Aquarium
The Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago showcases interactive exhibits on science, technology, and innovation, including a WWII submarine, a model railroad, and a replica coal mine.
Museum of Science and Industry Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago presents innovative and thought-provoking works by living artists, with exhibitions spanning painting, sculpture, photography, video, and performance art.
Museum of Contemporary Art Museum of Contemporary ArtHeritage Museums
Heritage museums in Illinois preserve and celebrate the diverse cultural traditions, communities, and stories that have shaped the state. Through artifacts, exhibits, and events, they highlight the contributions of immigrant groups, Indigenous peoples, and local cultures across generations.
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Celebrating Black History, Culture, and Achievement in America
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center in Chicago is dedicated to the history, culture, and achievements of African Americans. Through art, artifacts, and educational exhibits, it explores the Black experience in the U.S., with a focus on social justice, civil rights, and cultural contributions. As one of the oldest independent Black history museums in the nation, it serves as a vital space for reflection, learning, and community engagement.
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The National Museum of Mexican Art
Located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, the National Museum of Mexican Art presents vibrant expressions of Mexican, Chicano, and Latino culture through traditional and contemporary art, textiles, folk art, and multimedia exhibits on identity and community.
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The Swedish American Museum
The Swedish American Museum in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood explores Swedish immigration and heritage in the U.S. through exhibits on folk art, history, traditions, and daily life, highlighting the contributions of Swedish Americans over generations.
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The Heritage Museum of Asian Art
The Heritage Museum of Asian Art in Chicago showcases a diverse collection of Asian art, including ceramics, sculptures, textiles, and calligraphy. The museum highlights artistic traditions from China, Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent.
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The Ethnic Heritage Museum
The Ethnic Heritage Museum in Rockford celebrates the diverse cultural groups that have shaped the region. Featuring galleries dedicated to African American, Hispanic, Italian, Irish, Lithuanian, and Polish communities, it highlights local stories, traditions, and contributions.
The Ethnic Heritage Museum
Get inspired
Journey Through Illinois Museums
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5 Lesser-Known Chicago Museums You Need to Explore
Whether your interest is in Puerto Rican art or Saturday Night Live, Chicago has a museum to educate and explore. Read more about 5 Lesser-Known Chicago Museums You Need to Explore -
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6 Illinois Museums Worth Traveling For
There’s something for everyone inside Illinois’ world-class museums. Read more about 6 Illinois Museums Worth Traveling For -
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16 Children’s Museums to Visit in Illinois
Discover opportunities for all-day play, where interactive exhibits encourage kids to engage in a creative environment and learn along the way. Read more about 16 Children’s Museums to Visit in Illinois -
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Museum & Gallery Exhibits
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Keeping History Alive: A Tour Through the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center
Writer Emma Pope spends a day at the museum rich with interactive, invaluable lessons in human rights and our place in the future. Read more about Keeping History Alive: A Tour Through the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center -
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Wintertime is Museum Time
Head indoors to discover magical finds at Illinois museums, from writing implements used by the world’s most celebrated authors to a climbable work of art. Read more about Wintertime is Museum Time -
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History Museums in Illinois
Read more about History Museums in Illinois