Best Museums in Illinois for Kids and Adults

Illinois boasts a variety of museums perfect for families, kids, and adults. From world-class art collections to hands-on science exhibits, these destinations offer something for everyone. Whether you're into dinosaurs, classic cars, or interactive play spaces, Illinois museums provide engaging experiences for all ages. Here’s a quick overview of some must-visit spots:

• Art Institute of Chicago: Iconic art collections with programs for kids and adults.
• Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: Interactive science exhibits, including a WWII submarine and flight simulators.
• Field Museum: Home to SUE the T. rex, fossils, and cultural exhibits.
• DuPage Children's Museum: Hands-on activities tailored for kids and families.
• Volo Auto Museum: Classic cars and interactive displays.
• Jane Addams Hull-House Museum: Focus on social reform history.
• Chicago Children's Museum: Playful, interactive learning for kids under 10.
• American Oddities Museum: Unique exhibits on the strange and paranormal.
• Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio: Architectural history and family-friendly design.
• Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures: Artifacts and histories of early civilizations.

Whether you're planning a family outing or a solo trip, these museums offer diverse experiences across Illinois. For detailed admission info, special exhibits, and accessibility features, check their official websites.

Top Must See at DUPAGE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM!

1. Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago, nestled in downtown Chicago, is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts of all ages. Known for its iconic status, this museum offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing an impressive collection that spans centuries and continents.

Among its treasures are the renowned Impressionist galleries, featuring works by Monet, Renoir, and Degas. Visitors can also marvel at celebrated pieces like Grant Wood's American Gothic and Georges Seurat's A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. These masterpieces, alongside a variety of American and European works, make the museum a hub for art lovers.

With its mix of exceptional art and dynamic programs, the Art Institute remains one of Illinois's standout attractions. Let’s dive into how it caters to families and individual visitors alike.

Family-Friendly Features

The museum goes above and beyond to engage younger audiences. Interactive programs and guided tours are tailored to introduce children to the world of art in a fun and approachable way. Educational resources ensure that even the youngest visitors feel connected to the museum's offerings.

Exhibits and Activities for Adults

For adults, the Art Institute offers a wealth of opportunities to explore and learn. In addition to its permanent collections, the museum frequently hosts rotating exhibitions and evening events, providing fresh perspectives and unique experiences for return visitors.

Accessibility

Conveniently located at 111 South Michigan Avenue, near Millennium Park, the museum is easy to access via public transportation. It also provides thoughtful accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility and audio guides available in multiple languages, ensuring all visitors can enjoy their time.

Admission and Ticketing

Ticket prices vary by age, with free admission for children under three and discounts for local residents. To make the most of your visit, it’s a good idea to book timed tickets online in advance.

2. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago)

Located in Chicago's Hyde Park, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry offers a dynamic mix of interactive learning and scientific exploration. One of its standout features is the U-505 submarine, a preserved German World War II vessel that visitors can tour both inside and out. Designed to appeal to families and adults alike, this museum delivers engaging experiences for all ages.

Family-Friendly Features

Kids will love the museum's interactive exhibits. The Idea Factory, though temporarily closed from September 22–26, 2025, is a favorite for hands-on learning. Another highlight is the Coal Mine tour, where children can experience the workings of an underground mine, complete with authentic equipment and demonstrations.

For superhero fans, Marvel's Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition runs through February 8, 2026, blending science with the world of Spider-Man. Beyond that, flight simulators, motion simulators, and VR adventures provide exciting yet educational thrills.

Exhibits and Activities for Adults

Adults can dive into more in-depth explorations of science and technology. The U-505 On-board Tour offers a closer look at naval warfare, allowing visitors to step inside this historic submarine. The Giant Dome Theater screens visually stunning documentaries on topics ranging from space to natural wonders.

The museum also hosts rotating exhibits that explore cutting-edge scientific advancements and their impact on daily life and the future, providing thought-provoking insights for curious minds.

Accessibility

Conveniently located at 5700 South Lake Shore Drive in Hyde Park, the museum is easy to reach via public transportation or car. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., it’s fully wheelchair accessible and offers accommodations for visitors with diverse needs.

Admission and Ticketing Details

General Admission:

• Adults: $25.95
• Children (ages 3–11): $14.95
• Children under 3: Free

Special Experiences:

• Giant Dome Theater / Coal Mine tour: $12 adults, $9 children
• U-505 On-board Tour: $18 adults, $14 children
• Marvel's Spider-Man Exhibition: $18 adults/$14 children (Monday–Thursday); $22 adults/$16 children (weekends/holidays)

Discounts and Free Entry:

• Chicago residents: $9 off adult tickets, $5 off children’s tickets
• Illinois residents: Free entry on select dates in August, September, and October 2025
• Free admission for military personnel, veterans, Illinois teachers, Chicago firefighters/police, and Illinois POWs
• EBT/WIC cardholders: Free admission through the Museums for All program

Tickets can be purchased online, by phone at 684-1414, or at the museum’s ticket counters. For added savings, the Chicago CityPASS® provides access to five top attractions, including the Griffin Museum, for $142 for adults and $112 for children, offering up to 49% in savings.

3. Field Museum (Chicago)

The Field Museum, home to the iconic SUE the T. rex, stands as one of Chicago's most beloved attractions. Situated on the Museum Campus, this natural history museum offers an incredible mix of fossils, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring Earth's history to life. Its blend of education and hands-on discovery makes it a standout destination for visitors of all ages.

Family-Friendly Features

Kids will be thrilled by the museum's fossil halls, which showcase towering dinosaur skeletons sure to spark their imaginations. The Crown Family PlayLab is a hub of interactive fun, with dig sites, puppet shows, and activities designed to inspire curiosity. Families can also explore the Evolving Planet exhibit, a fascinating journey through Earth's history that features everything from ancient sea creatures to Ice Age giants, complete with touchscreens and displays perfect for younger visitors. Budding scientists will enjoy the Fossil Prep Lab, where they can watch paleontologists at work, cleaning and studying dinosaur bones.

Exhibits and Activities for Adults

For adults, the museum offers a treasure trove of cultural and scientific exhibits. The collection of Native American and Pre-Columbian artifacts provides a deep dive into American histories, while the Grainger Hall of Gems dazzles with its array of minerals, meteorites, and rare geological specimens. Temporary exhibits keep things fresh, covering topics like climate science and cultural anthropology, often showcasing the latest research and discoveries.

Accessibility

Located at 1400 South Lake Shore Drive, the Field Museum is easy to reach, whether you're driving, biking, or using public transit. The #146 Museum Campus bus provides direct service from downtown Chicago, and the Roosevelt Red Line station is within walking distance. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, complimentary wheelchairs, and assistive listening devices available for guided tours. Major exhibits feature accessible pathways and viewing areas, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

For up-to-date admission prices and ticketing information, visit the Field Museum's official website.

4. DuPage Children's Museum (Naperville)

The DuPage Children's Museum in Naperville is a treasure trove of hands-on exhibits and activities designed to captivate both kids and adults. With affordable admission options and flexible memberships, it’s a great destination for families looking to explore and learn together.

Admission and Ticketing Details

General admission costs $22 per person for both adults and children, while seniors can enter for $21. Infants under one year of age are admitted free of charge. If you’re planning a visit, buying tickets online saves you $1, and purchasing in advance can make weekend and holiday check-ins smoother.

For families who plan to visit often, annual memberships provide excellent value. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Family Play Membership ($220/year): Includes four free admissions per visit, two named adult cardholders, and a 50% discount on general admission for up to six people at participating institutions in the Association of Children's Museums network.
• Family Circle Membership ($250/year): Offers six free admissions per visit, three named adult cardholders, and the same 50% discount benefit.

The museum also offers need-based memberships for families who qualify:

• Welcome Membership ($35/year): Includes four free admissions per visit and two named adult cardholders. Proof of participation in assistance programs like WIC, SNAP, or TANF is required.
• Thrive Membership ($125/year): Offers the same benefits as the Welcome Membership, with required documentation.

Membership Overview

With its engaging exhibits and flexible pricing options, the DuPage Children's Museum is a fantastic addition to Illinois’s lineup of family-friendly attractions.

5. Volo Auto Museum (Volo)

The Volo Auto Museum is a must-visit destination for classic car fans and families alike. Nestled in Volo, this museum combines a love for vintage vehicles with interactive exhibits that appeal to visitors of all ages.

Family-Friendly Features

This museum goes beyond static displays, offering plenty of interactive exhibits and photo opportunities that bring automotive history to life. Kids and families can enjoy hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging. It’s a relaxed, welcoming environment where everyone can explore and play.

Exhibits and Activities for Adults

Adults will appreciate the museum's focus on the evolution of automotive design and the art of vehicle restoration. Rotating exhibits dive into the history of classic cars, offering a deeper understanding of their significance and the intricate techniques used to restore them to their former glory.

Accessibility

Located conveniently in Volo, the museum is an easy day trip from Chicago. With free parking and thoughtful accommodations for strollers and accessibility needs, the museum ensures a hassle-free experience for all visitors.

Admission and Ticketing Details

Ticket prices are based on age, with discounted rates available for seniors and groups. Tickets can be purchased online, and visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s website for seasonal hours before planning their trip.

6. Jane Addams Hull-House Museum (Chicago)

Next on our journey through Illinois's rich museum scene is the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, a tribute to Chicago's historic Hull-House settlement. This museum dives into the early 20th-century social reform efforts led by Jane Addams, focusing on her work to uplift immigrants and support the working poor. Through its exhibits, the museum explores the impact of community programs from that period and their lasting influence. Located on the University of Illinois Chicago campus, it’s an engaging stop for visitors of all ages. For the latest on exhibits, operating hours, and admission, check out the museum’s official website.

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7. Chicago Children's Museum

The Chicago Children's Museum, nestled at Navy Pier, is a vibrant, multi-level space designed for kids under 10, with a sweet spot for those aged 4 to 8. It’s not just a museum - it’s an interactive playground that combines hands-on learning with creative exploration. With daily programs and thoughtfully crafted exhibits, the museum ensures that children of all abilities can dive into the fun, thanks to its inclusive design.

Family-friendly features

This museum is all about bringing families together. From interactive exhibits to daily programming, every corner invites parents and kids to collaborate, play, and learn side by side. Whether you're building, exploring, or creating, the activities are designed to spark curiosity and imagination for everyone involved. For frequent visitors, the membership program is a great deal - offering free daily admission, discounts at the gift shop, and exclusive perks at Navy Pier. It’s a place where learning feels like play, and every visit can bring something new.

Accessibility (location, physical access, etc.)

Conveniently located at Navy Pier, the museum is easy to access, with plenty of parking nearby. Its multi-story layout is designed with accessibility in mind, offering accommodations to ensure visitors with mobility challenges can navigate comfortably. The museum goes the extra mile by providing resources to support families with special needs, making sure every child and parent can enjoy the experience.

Admission and ticketing details

The museum keeps families in mind with a range of ticketing options. Admission pricing depends on residency: Illinois residents pay $21 per person with proof of residency (like a state ID or utility bill), while non-residents are charged $25 per person. Babies under 1 year old get in free.

Discounts abound for those who qualify. Military families are well-supported - veterans enjoy one free admission with valid military ID, and active-duty personnel receive free entry for themselves and up to three guests. The museum also participates in the Museums for All program, offering $5 tickets per person (up to six people) for families with EBT or WIC cards (note: Chicago Public School-issued EBT cards and Pandemic-EBT cards don’t qualify).

For families planning repeat visits, memberships are a smart choice. They include free admission for up to 4 or 6 people (depending on the tier) and come with extra perks like discounts and special offers. The museum is also part of Go City Passes, such as the Chicago Explorer Pass and Chicago Attractions Pass, which can help you save when exploring multiple attractions in the city. General admission tickets are available online for specific time slots, with most discounts applied on-site when you present the necessary documentation.

8. American Oddities Museum (Alton)

The American Oddities Museum in Alton offers a captivating dive into the world of the strange, the supernatural, and the macabre. This one-of-a-kind museum showcases the personal collection of Troy Taylor, featuring exhibits that explore haunted artifacts, true crime, bizarre medical practices, and local supernatural history. It's a must-visit for adults intrigued by the darker corners of history and the paranormal.

Exhibits and Activities for Adults

The museum's exhibits are tailored for adult visitors with a taste for the unusual. Among the highlights are haunted objects from local sites, Victorian Vampire Killing kits, ghost hunting tools, and the infamous FeeJee Mermaid - guaranteed to spark curiosity and conversation.

One of the most talked-about sections dives into true crime and medical history. As of September 20, 2025, visitors have encountered chilling items like an old embalming table, antique funeral memorabilia, relics from Jonestown, and even bricks from H.H. Holmes' notorious "murder castle." The museum also shines a light on quack medicine, offering a glimpse into the strange and often dubious medical practices of the past.

For those drawn to the supernatural, the museum houses an impressive collection of ouija boards, magic and witchcraft artifacts, spirit-world relics, and religious items. Adding a modern twist, interactive robots follow visitor movements through the displays, making the experience even more engaging. Before you leave, stop by the American Hauntings Ink Bookstore, where you'll find a range of books that dive deeper into these eerie topics. While the exhibits are primarily designed for adults, older children and teens with a keen interest in mysteries or the paranormal will also find plenty to enjoy.

Family-Friendly Features

Despite its focus on the macabre, the museum offers an educational and engaging experience for families with older kids and teens. Informational signs and photographs accompany the exhibits, providing historical context and making the visit as enlightening as it is intriguing. It’s a great way to spark conversations about history, mystery, and the unknown.

Accessibility

Located in historic Alton, Illinois, the museum is an ideal day-trip destination for those traveling from the St. Louis or Chicago areas. Keep in mind that the last admission is at 4:30 PM.

Admission and Ticketing Details

General admission is just $5 per person, and children 10 and under get in free. Plus, if you spend $25 at the American Hauntings Ink Bookstore, you’ll receive two free tickets - perfect for making the most of your visit.

9. Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio (Oak Park)

The Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio in Oak Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the renowned architect's family life and his early design work. It highlights his groundbreaking ideas from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Family-Friendly Features

One highlight for families is the 1895 playroom located on the second floor. Wright designed this space to inspire his children, featuring a high, barrel-vaulted ceiling with skylights filtered through intricate wooden grilles. Built-in window seats, carefully positioned at child-friendly heights, provide a cozy spot for kids to take in the outdoor views. Adding to its charm, a mural above the fireplace depicts "The Fisherman and the Genie", sparking imagination and storytelling.

This blend of art and function underscores Wright's philosophy of creating environments that nurture both beauty and growth. As he once said:

"For the same reason that we teach our children to speak the truth, or better still live the truth, their environment ought to be as truly beautiful as we are capable of making it." [1]

Exhibits for Adults

Adults will appreciate exploring Wright's adjacent studio, a space that birthed many of his early Prairie School designs. Sarah Holian, Curator and Director of Interpretation at the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, shares:

"You get to see not only how he created a home for his family - he had six children in what is really quite a modest-size home - but also where so many of the early Prairie designs that he's known for were created in the adjacent studio." [2]

These two areas offer a well-rounded experience, seamlessly blending personal history with architectural innovation.

Accessibility

Situated in Oak Park, the Home & Studio is a short trip from Chicago and welcomes visitors with a few guidelines to keep in mind. Due to the historic nature of the building, children under 8 are not allowed on interior tours, and strollers are prohibited inside.

Admission and Ticketing Details

Visitors can choose from several tour options to suit their interests and budgets:

• Home and Studio Guided Interior Tour: $24 general admission.
• "Inside and Out" Package: Includes a guided interior tour and an outdoor historic neighborhood audio tour for $38 general admission.
• Outdoor Historic Neighborhood Audio Tour: Available separately on-site for $18 general admission.

Members of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust enjoy perks like free admission to the Guided Interior Tour and discounted rates on the "Inside and Out" package. Members pay only $14 for the individual outdoor tour.

Tickets are required for all visitors, and advance booking is strongly recommended. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 312.994.4000. Day-of tickets are available up to 30 minutes before the tour, and guests should check in at the Museum Shop at least 15 minutes prior. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. For groups of 10 or more, special arrangements can be made through the Group Tours page.

10. Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (Chicago)

Nestled on the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures offers a fascinating glimpse into the artifacts and histories of early civilizations. The museum operates on a suggested donation model, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to delve into the wonders of ancient societies.

Admission and Ticketing Details

Visitors are encouraged to contribute a suggested donation of $15 for adults and $10 for children aged 12 and under [3]. For groups of 10 or more - whether adults, families, school groups, or youth organizations - advance registration is required at least 48 hours prior to the visit to avoid a per-person fee. Members of the ISAC and University of Chicago community members (with a valid UChicago ID) and their guests enjoy free admission [3].

Museum Comparison Table

Here’s a quick guide to compare key details for some of Illinois' standout museums. For the latest updates on admission, exhibits, and other features, be sure to check each museum’s official website.

This table serves as a handy supplement to the detailed museum reviews provided earlier.

Planning Your Visit

Details like admission fees, exhibits, parking options, and accessibility features can change. Always confirm the most up-to-date information directly on each museum’s website before planning your trip.

Conclusion

Illinois is home to a wide range of museums that blend education, culture, and fun, making them ideal for family outings. Whether it’s marveling at the masterpieces in the Art Institute of Chicago, exploring dinosaur fossils at the Field Museum, or diving into hands-on science experiments at the DuPage Children's Museum, there’s something for everyone. Adults can admire Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural brilliance or explore ancient civilizations at the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures, while kids can unleash their curiosity in interactive exhibits like those at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry.

What sets these museums apart is their focus on making education engaging for all ages. From exhibits designed to captivate children to collections that celebrate diverse cultures, Illinois museums cater to a wide audience. Whether it’s a weekend outing or a school break adventure, these institutions offer experiences that inspire curiosity and leave lasting impressions.

With so many options, you can plan multiple trips throughout the year. Start with Chicago’s iconic spots like the Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier, then branch out to discover unique places like the American Oddities Museum in Alton or the historically rich Jane Addams Hull-House Museum.

To make the most of your visits, use the provided planning tips and comparison table. Be sure to check each museum’s website for the latest details on admission, special exhibits, and seasonal hours. Illinois’s museums offer some of the best opportunities in the Midwest for learning, exploring, and making unforgettable family memories.

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