It’s no surprise that Chicago is one of the biggest tourist destinations with myriad things to do. Which is why we polled hundreds of Chicago’s concierges to find out which spots they deem to be the best of the best. Here’s a look at their favorite Chicago museums.
Art Institute of Chicago
Top ranked in the world by TripAdvisor four years in a row, this concierge favorite boasts one million square feet of gallery space to explore. The concierge short list of must-sees include its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post- Impressionist art, which is considered one of the nest in the world; the airy, light-filled Modern Wing that showcases 20th- and 21st-century art and the beloved Thorne Miniature Rooms.
Museum of Science & Industry
Don’t make any other plans when you visit the Museum of Science and Industry as it’s the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Make sure to see the German World War II submarine, the Boeing 727, the 40-foot water vapor tornado, and the adorable chick hatchery. Make sure to check out their Brick by Brick special exhibit. Who doesn’t love giant LEGO®-built structures?
Adler Planetarium
A favorite of Alex Yu, concierge Viceroy Chicago, he recommends experiencing their monthly 21 and up Adler After Dark galactic-themed event series. Explore the museum exhibits, galleries, take in unlimited sky shows in their 3 state-of- the-art theaters, while cocktails along the way.
Chicago History Museum
This favorite is a treasure trove of all things Chicago. With its collection of over 20 million items, including photographs, drawings, diaries, sound recordings, newspapers, furniture and more, this museum will take you back in time, from Chicago’s beginnings as a fur trading settlement to the bustling, modern city it is today.
Field Museum
Sue, the world’s largest and most complete
T. rex ever found, is just one of this museum’s extraordinary specimens on display. A treasure trove of natural history, favorites include the Egyptian tomb where you can see 23 Egyptian mummies and 5,000 year-old hieroglyphics and the legendary man-eating lions of Tsavo.
Driehaus Museum
Get a fascinating view of one of the few remaining examples of the palatial homes erected by the wealthy of America’s Gilded Age. The galleries, elegantly furnished with period pieces, immerse visitors in the original splendor of this late 19th-century home.
Other Museum Favorites
Written By Amber Holst
Amber Holst is Vice President & Editorial Director at Concierge Preferred. A native Chicagoan, she’ll happily bend your ear about why Top Notch burgers are a must (as is an Original Rainbow Cone) and can often be found procuring milk candy in Chinatown after dim sum with her partner in crime or rooting on her beloved Green Bay Packers (yes, that’s right) at Will’s Northwoods Inn. Lover of cured meats, prosecco, and good old fashioned “slashies” she considers herself fortunate to be able to promote her hometown for a living. Fun fact? She can play the accordion.