Located in Chicago, Illinois, the Field Museum is a world-renowned natural history museum that attracts millions of visitors every year. With its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the natural world and human history. From ancient civilizations to modern-day science, the Field Museum has something for everyone. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes this museum a must-visit destination and provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit.
History of the Field Museum
The Field Museum was founded in 1893 as the Columbian Museum of Chicago, named after the World’s Columbian Exposition held in the city that year. It was later renamed the Field Museum of Natural History in honor of Marshall Field, a prominent businessman and philanthropist who donated $1 million to the museum. The museum’s original purpose was to house the biological and anthropological collections assembled for the World’s Columbian Exposition. However, over the years, the museum has expanded its collection and now boasts over 40 million specimens and artifacts.
Getting to the Field Museum
The Field Museum is conveniently located in downtown Chicago, making it easily accessible by public transportation or car. Visitors can take the CTA L train to Roosevelt station and walk a short distance to the museum. For those who prefer biking, there is also a Divvy bike parking station near the museum. Paid parking is available on-site for those driving to the museum.
Hours and Admission
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last admission at 4 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission prices vary depending on residency and age. Out-of-state visitors pay $30 for adults and $23 for children. Illinois residents receive a discounted rate of $24 for adults and $17 for children. Children under 3 years old are free. The museum also offers special discounts for students, seniors, and active military personnel.
Located in Chicago, Illinois, the Field Museum is a world-renowned natural history museum that attracts millions of visitors every year. With its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the natural world and human history. From ancient civilizations to modern-day science, the Field Museum has something for everyone. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes this museum a must-visit destination and provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit.
Contact Information
- Website: Field Museum Website;
- Phone Number: +1 (312) 922-9410;
- Email: [email protected].
Must-See Exhibits at the Field Museum
The Field Museum is home to a vast collection of exhibits that cover a wide range of topics, from ancient civilizations to modern-day science. Here are some of the must-see exhibits that you should not miss during your visit:
Inside Ancient Egypt
This exhibit takes visitors on a journey through ancient Egypt, showcasing artifacts and recreations of daily life in this fascinating civilization. One of the highlights of this exhibit is a recreation of a three-story Egyptian tomb, complete with hieroglyphics and mummies. The Field Museum also boasts one of the largest collections of mummies in the United States, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history.
Restoring Earth
The Abbott Hall of Conservation is dedicated to educating visitors about sustainability and the importance of preserving our planet. The Restoring Earth exhibit features interactive displays and activities that allow visitors to learn about different ecosystems and the impact of human activity on the environment. It also showcases the museum’s efforts in conservation and research.
SUE the T. rex
No visit to the Field Museum is complete without seeing SUE, the largest and most complete T. rex ever discovered. This 40-foot-long, 55-toothed dinosaur is a crowd favorite and has been a part of the museum since 2000. Visitors can learn about the life and death of SUE and even touch a real T. rex fossil.
Recommended Time to Spend
With so much to see and explore, it can be challenging to determine how much time to allocate for your visit to the Field Museum. While the duration of your visit may vary depending on your interests, it is recommended to spend at least a few hours at the museum to fully appreciate its exhibits and collections.
Facilities at the Field Museum
The Field Museum offers various facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for its guests. Restrooms are available throughout the museum, and there are also eateries where visitors can grab a bite to eat. The museum’s gift shop is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts, and there is also paid parking on-site for those driving to the museum.
Conclusion
The Field Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, science, or the natural world. With its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From ancient civilizations to modern-day science, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore and learn about our planet and its inhabitants. So, if you find yourself in Chicago, make sure to add the Field Museum to your list of places to visit. You won’t be disappointed.