Museums & galleries in Chicago
This is a huge pavilion where you can actually get hands-on with science. The main highlight is a real German U-505 submarine captured during World War II, housed in a massive underground hall. There’s also a 12-meter artificial tornado you can touch, and a Boeing 727 hanging from the ceiling that you can walk inside.
One of the most influential galleries in the US, operating since 1963. They showcase works by art market 'blue chips': David Hockney, Pablo Picasso, Jean Dubuffet, and Jaume Plensa.
The museum focuses on art created after 1945. There are no dusty archives here — the exhibitions are constantly changing, showcasing video art, installations, conceptual sculpture, and contemporary photography. There's also the museum's famous staircase, which looks like an eye from above. It's considered one of the most beautiful architectural details in Chicago.
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the USA, which regularly ranks at the top of global ratings. It houses the second-largest collection of Impressionism in the world after France. You’ll see Monet’s 'Haystacks,' Seurat’s 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,' and Van Gogh’s 'Bedroom in Arles.'
A leader in promoting international contemporary art in Chicago. The gallery has two spaces on the same street. Socially significant and conceptual art. This is where artists exhibit who later make it into the main shows at the Venice Biennale.
It's located in an old four-story mansion, which is a historical architectural landmark in itself. This is one of the few museums in the world devoted entirely to medicine. The collection has everything: from ancient Peruvian skulls with trepanation to the first X-ray machines and bloodletting tools.
This is a 'vault' of our planet's history — from dinosaurs to ancient civilizations. The museum's star is Sue the Tyrannosaurus, the most complete skeleton in the world. Next to her is the even bigger Maximo, which you can actually walk under. There's also the 'Inside Ancient Egypt' exhibit, a precise reconstruction of a mastaba where you can go down into burial chambers and see real mummies and papyrus scrolls.
Specializes in contemporary painting and top-level art photography. Very aesthetic, often large-format works that would fit perfectly in the interior of a luxury penthouse. They often hold exhibitions dedicated to the connection between humans and nature.
A gallery with a 40-year history that was at the forefront of conceptual art in the US. Minimalism, conceptualism, and works focused on politics and society. You can see originals by Sol LeWitt and Jenny Holzer here.
The best spot in town for street art and contemporary urban art lovers. Works inspired by graffiti, pop culture, and graphic design. Here you can find exhibitions by both Chicago local legends and international street art stars.
