Chicago Guide

Chicago Museum Tours

Discover world-class museums from Art Institute to Field Museum and Museum Campus!

68+ tours
From $30
2-4 hours
Chicago Museum Tours

Experience Chicago's exceptional museums rivaling the world's finest institutions! The Museum Campus along Lake Michigan houses three world-class museums: Field Museum (Sue the T-Rex and natural history), Shedd Aquarium (32,000 aquatic animals), and Adler Planetarium (space and astronomy). The Art Institute of Chicago features iconic works like Grant Wood's "American Gothic," Georges Seurat's "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte," and extensive Impressionist collections. Other highlights include Museum of Science and Industry (massive interactive exhibits in historic building), Chicago History Museum, and contemporary art at MCA. Tours provide skip-the-line access, expert guides explaining masterpieces, and thematic explorations. Learn about Chicago's cultural contributions, see dinosaur fossils, interact with science exhibits, and admire world-class art. It's museum paradise!

Featured Museum Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for museum tours in Chicago

Field Museum of Natural History Admission Tickets
From $29
Free Cancellation

Explore over 40 million artifacts, including SUE, the world’s largest, most complete T. rex ever discovered! Discover 23 mummified remains in a recreated Egyptian tomb, our dazzling Gem Hall or journey to the powerful Aztec empire! Meet Maximo our newest titanosaur at over two stories tall! The health of our guests and staff is always our top priority and we welcome you back to safely explore nearly half a million square feet of open gallery space.

4.6(486)
4h
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Medieval Torture Museum Ticket with Audio Guide and Ghost Hunting
From $35.83
Free Cancellation

Discover horrific instruments of torture and execution. Get a fully audio-guided immersed experience. Explore the interactive exhibits at your own pace. Feel the chilling Ghost Hunting Experience using Ghost Hunting app.

4.8(946)
1h 30m
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Field Museum of Natural History All-Access Pass
From $41
Free Cancellation

Delve deep into the world of natural history with this Field Museum All Access Pass in Chicago.  Your pass includes access to all ticketed exhibitions.  Spend as long as you like exploring the museum's collection of more than 26 million artifacts. Get to know SUE, the world's largest T. Rex, or stroll through the sparkling Hall of Gems. Time travel through 13,000 years of history in the Americas, from the Ice Age to Inca and Aztec temples. Take advantage of the free daily tours, led by Field Museum docents. Don't forget to meet Maximo, the museum's newest titanosaur at over two stories tall!

4.7(135)
1h
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Museum of Ice Cream Chicago
From $43
🔥Likely to Sell Out

Step into a world of color, creativity, and sweetness at the Museum of Ice Cream in Chicago! This immersive, Instagram-worthy experience brings together art, interactive exhibits, and, of course, ice cream. Wander through vibrant rooms filled with unique, larger-than-life installations, from sprinkle-filled pools to playful, ice cream-inspired art. Indulge in a variety of delicious ice cream treats throughout the tour, including exclusive flavors that change seasonally. With engaging activities designed to spark joy and creativity, the Museum of Ice Cream is a fun, family-friendly adventure for all ages. Whether you’re a dessert lover, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun outing, this experience promises a memorable, sweet escape. Don't forget your camera – every corner is a photo op! Reserve your spot today for a sugar-filled journey like no other.

3.4(396)
45 min
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Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art: General Admission Ticket
From $22
Free Cancellation

The MCA Chicago is one of the nation’s largest multidisciplinary museums devoted to the art of our time with an international reputation for presenting ground-breaking exhibitions. Originally conceived as a "Kunsthalle" or non-collecting art hall hosted temporary exhibitions of new and experimental artists, the museum has no permanent exhibits on view. Instead, you'll find work by living artists across media in exhibits that change every few months. The MCA also boasts an award-winning Store and Marisol, the restaurant and bar, featuring innovative flavors in an immersive art environment. Please call the Box Office for questions or exchanges.

3.5(92)
1h
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 Field Museum of Natural History Early Access Ticket
From $73
Free CancellationSkip The Line

Visit the Field Museum like a VIP on this one- hour early access VIP tour. Head inside the Field Museum at 8am before it opens to the general public and see our most famous exhibition with a Museum expert. Start your visit with a personalized tour of the Field's awe-insipiring and ever-popular Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet and SUE the T. rex. Get to know the many creatures that have roamed the earth throughout history. Spend time with SUE, the world's largest and most complete T. rex and take pictures without crowds. Head down to Stanley Field Hall to learn about Maximo the titanosaur before stopping in the Field Bistro for a break. You can continue exploring the rest of the Museum on your own. The VIP tour is limited to 20 people to ensure a more intimate experience.

4.5(52)
2h
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American Writers Museum Admission Ticket
From $16
Free Cancellation

In the heart of downtown Chicago, the American Writers Museum celebrates all genres of writing through interactive exhibits and programming. From Twain to Tupac, there's a story here for everyone. Discover for yourself and visit today! Named Illinois' Best Attraction by USA Today and One of the 10 Best New Museums in the World by Fodor's. Flexible Date Entry

4.9(70)
1h
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2-Hour Chicago Lakefront & Museum Campus Segway Tour
From $64
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Looking for fun things to do in Chicago? Look no further! Join one of our professional guides on a scenic 6-8 mile Chicago Segway tour. Glide effortlessly through the fragrant garden paths of Grant Park to marvel at the iconic Buckingham Fountain. Enjoy the breeze as you explore the city's top attractions along the Chicago lakefront, including Museum Campus, with stops near Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and the historic Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears. This guided Segway tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and adventure, providing an unforgettable way to experience Chicago's most popular tourist spots that's great for locals and out of towners!

5.0(345)
2h
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Volo Auto Museum: Admission Ticket
From $24.1
Free Cancellation

Located just outside of Chicago, the Volo Auto Museum features over 33 exhibits and display attractions. The museum was built on a farm from the 1800's and features many of the original buildings along with their country charm and character.

4.5(55)
1h
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Illinois Holocaust Museum Experience360 Admission
From $12
Free CancellationNew

Illinois Holocaust Museum presents Experience360 offers a profound journey through the narratives of survival and resilience during the Holocaust and other genocides. This immersive experience utilizes advanced technology to present first-person accounts from survivors, alongside impactful exhibits that showcase personal artifacts and historical imagery. Visitors can engage with holographic stories, explore virtual reality journeys, and reflect on the lessons of history that inspire empathy and respect. Whether you seek to learn or remember, Experience360 is a vital part of understanding our shared humanity.

5.0(22)
1h
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Chicago Landmarks & Museum Campus Small Group Segway Tour
From $65
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Looking for fun things to do in Chicago? Explore the city with one of our professional guides on a scenic 6-7 mile tour. Begin your adventure by gliding through the fragrant garden paths of Grant Park, where you'll admire the iconic Buckingham Fountain. Feel the breeze as you effortlessly explore the city's most popular attractions along the Chicago lakefront. Visit the renowned Museum Campus, home to the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and the historic Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears. This guided tour offers an unforgettable sightseeing experience, perfect for both tourists and locals. To ensure a personalized experience, we keep our group sizes small, with only 8-10 guests per tour. Join us for an intimate journey through Chicago's top attractions.

5.0(230)
2h
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Chicago Museum of Science and Industry Ticket & Audio Tour
From $52
New

• Explore the must-sees of one of the world's largest science museums with a ticket and a digital guide - all in one app • Learn about the future and the past of technology through various immersive experiences • Step into a swirling tornado, watch fire burning and witness baby chickens coming into the world • Explore how your body works with the interactive You! Experience • Plan your visit and don’t worry about the admission: tickets are included in the tour

2h
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Candle Making Experience Near Museums & Millennium Park
From $75
Free Cancellation

Step into our vibrant candle-making studio and unleash your creativity! Craft candles with friends and family, blending custom scents in a welcoming space. Take home your masterpiece the same day, making memories and experiencing Chicago in a unique, unforgettable way. Join us for a non-traditional workshop designed for instant gratification and lasting inspiration!

5.0(7)
2h
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Field Museum Basic Admission Ticket Plus VR Experience
From $42
Free CancellationSkip The LineNew

A visit to the Field Museum unlocks a world of discovery with access to captivating exhibitions like the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet and the iconic SUE the T. Rex. Explore the Grainger Hall of Gems and delve into Native Truths: Our Voices, Our Stories. Enhance your experience with a choice of one virtual reality adventure upon arrival, either 'Drop in the Ocean' or 'VR Transporter'. This ticket promises an enriching day filled with knowledge and wonder.

4h
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Field Museum Basic Admission Ticket with Tasting Experience
From $55
Free CancellationSkip The LineNew+1

Explore the wonders of the Field Museum with general admission that covers all open general exhibitions, including the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet & SUE the t. Rex. Enjoy unique access to the Grainger Hall of Gems and the engaging exhibit, Native Truths: Our Voices, Our Stories. As part of your ticket, select three tastings from a curated list featuring Field Museum Gin, Vodka, Rye, and Pseudo SUE Beer, all inspired by the museum's historic botanical collections. This experience is perfect for those 21 and older, combining education with a delightful tasting adventure.

4h
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Why Choose Museum Tours in Chicago?

World-Class Collections

Art Institute and Field Museum rank among world's finest museums!

Museum Campus

Three major museums on beautiful lakefront - easy to visit multiple!

Iconic Artworks

See "American Gothic," Monet's water lilies, and Impressionist masterpieces.

Interactive Exhibits

Science and Industry Museum offers hands-on learning experiences.

Types of Museum Tours in Chicago

Art Institute Tour

Guided tour of highlights including Impressionist gallery.

2 hoursIconic paintingsExpert guideSkip linesMust-see

Museum Campus Pass

Visit all three lakefront museums - Field, Shedd, Adler.

Full dayThree museumsCombo ticketBest valueComprehensive

Science & Industry Tour

Interactive exhibits in historic Palace of Fine Arts building.

3-4 hoursHands-onSubmarine tourFamily-friendlyEngaging

Private Museum Tours

Personalized tours focusing on specific interests and collections.

2-3 hoursPrivate guideCustom focusIn-depthPremium

What to Expect on Your Chicago Museum Tours

Duration

Single museum: 2-3 hours. Museum Campus: Full day. Plan accordingly!

Art Institute

See "American Gothic," Impressionist masterpieces, and modern art collections.

Field Museum

Meet Sue the T-Rex (largest, most complete T-Rex), mummies, and gems.

Shedd Aquarium

See beluga whales, dolphins, penguins, and 32,000 aquatic animals.

Science & Industry

Explore U-505 submarine, coal mine, and interactive science exhibits.

Chicago History

Understand city's role in art, science, and cultural innovation.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

CityPASS ($115) includes Art Institute, Field Museum, Shedd, and 2 more - saves 50%!

2

Art Institute FREE Thursdays 5-8 PM for Illinois residents - very crowded!

3

Museum Campus walkable between all three - beautiful lakefront path.

4

Field Museum: Thursdays stay open late (until 8 PM) - fewer crowds after 5 PM.

5

Book Shedd aquarium timed entry in advance - they control capacity.

6

Science & Industry needs 3-4 hours minimum - it's massive!

7

Many museums closed Mondays - check schedules before planning.

8

Download museum apps for self-guided audio tours - enhance visit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best museum in Chicago?

A: Art Institute is world-class (Impressionists, American Gothic). Field Museum amazing for natural history (Sue the T-Rex!). Science & Industry best for families (interactive). Shedd Aquarium great for kids. Each excellent - choose based on interests! CityPASS lets you visit multiple.

Q:How much do Chicago museums cost?

A: Art Institute: $32. Field Museum: $32. Shedd Aquarium: $40. Science & Industry: $25. Adler Planetarium: $30. CityPASS: $115 (includes 5 attractions - best value!). Children discounts available. Book online saves time.

Q:What is Sue the T-Rex?

A: Sue is the largest, most complete T-Rex skeleton ever found at Field Museum! Named after discoverer Sue Hendrickson. 40 feet long, 67 million years old. She's the star attraction! Field Museum also has mummies, gems, and natural history. $32 entry.

Q:Is the Art Institute worth it?

A: Absolutely! One of world's greatest art museums with iconic works: "American Gothic," Monet's water lilies, Seurat's "Sunday," and massive collections. Plan 2-3 hours minimum. $32 entry but worth every penny. Architecture alone is stunning!

Q:How long to visit museums?

A: Art Institute: 2-3 hours for highlights, full day for thorough visit. Field Museum: 2-3 hours. Shedd Aquarium: 2-3 hours. Science & Industry: 3-4 hours (huge!). Museum Campus: Full day for all three. Don't rush - savor them!

Q:Is CityPASS worth it?

A: Yes! $115 includes Art Institute, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck, and choice of Science & Industry OR 360 CHICAGO. Separately: $169+. Saves $50+ and skips some ticket lines. Valid 9 days. Perfect for tourists hitting major sights!

Q:Can you visit Museum Campus in one day?

A: Yes but exhausting! All three museums (Field, Shedd, Adler) walkable on Campus. Full day (9 AM-5 PM) needed. Recommend choosing 2 museums for quality over quantity. Beautiful lakefront setting - bring camera for skyline views!

Q:Are museums family-friendly?

A: Very! Shedd Aquarium and Science & Industry especially great for kids (interactive!). Field Museum has Sue the T-Rex (kids love it). Art Institute less engaging for young children. All have family programs and cafes. Chicago museums excel with kids!

Don't Miss the Perfect Chicago Experience

Book your museum tours today - 68+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Chicago?

Iconic skyline and architectural masterpieces

World-class museums and cultural institutions

Famous deep-dish pizza and diverse cuisine

Beautiful Lake Michigan and waterfront

Vibrant neighborhoods and friendly culture

Perfect blend of urban sophistication and charm

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Chicago enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are warm (70-85°F/21-29°C), winters are cold (20-35°F/-6-2°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

May to June and September to October offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with warm weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

November to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and occasional snow.

Plan Your Chicago Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation with L trains, buses, and Metra. Walking is perfect for exploring downtown, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in Chicago

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Chicago adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Chicago

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Ready to Explore Chicago?

Discover the best tours and activities in Chicago with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.