Field Museum

The Field Museum is a landmark natural history museum on the Museum Campus, best known for SUE, the largest and most complete T. rex ever found. Highlights include Egyptian mummies, gems, and immersive dioramas across huge halls. It is enormous and crowded on weekends, so prioritize a few exhibits and buy timed tickets.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is the Field Museum free for Illinois residents?

The Field offers reduced Chicago-resident pricing and select free-admission days for Illinois residents through the year. Free days can be crowded and may not include special exhibitions. Check the tickets-and-pricing page for the current free-day calendar.

What is there to see at the Field Museum?

Headliners include SUE, the most complete T. rex ever found, the giant titanosaur Maximo, the Egyptian tomb and mummies, the Grainger Hall of Gems, and extensive dinosaur, animal, and world-culture halls. There is far more than you can see in one visit, so prioritize.

How much are Field Museum tickets?

Basic general admission is about $27 for adults and $24 for kids (5-18), with under-4 free; online out-of-town prices start around $30 and vary by demand. Chicago residents pay a reduced rate. Discovery and All-Access passes add 3D movies and special exhibitions for more.

Can you combine the Field Museum with the Shedd or Adler?

Yes, all three sit on the Museum Campus within walking distance and are bundled in CityPASS. Two in one day is doable but tiring; many people pair the Field with the Shedd or Adler and save the third for another day.

What are the Field Museum's hours?

The museum is open daily 9am to 5pm, with last entry at 4pm, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Arriving near opening gives you the popular exhibits before school groups arrive. Confirm holiday hours before visiting around late December.

Is the Field Museum good for kids?

Very. Dinosaurs, mummies, animal dioramas, and the underground 'Crown Family PlayLab' (for young kids) make it a hit. It is stroller-friendly with plenty of open space. Arrive at opening to beat the school and camp groups that pack in mid-morning.

How long do you need at the Field Museum?

Three to four hours covers the main highlights. Families and enthusiasts can spend most of a day, especially adding a special exhibition or 3D film. It is a big building, so wear comfortable shoes and plan a lunch break in the cafe.

Which ticket should I buy for the Field Museum?

Basic admission covers the permanent halls including SUE and the mummies, which is enough for most visitors. Upgrade to Discovery or All-Access only if you specifically want the 3D movie or a ticketed special exhibition. Buy online to lock the standard price.

Nearby in Ask Chicago

• Shedd AquariumAttraction0.28 km · 4 min walk
• Northerly IslandPark0.81 km · 10 min walk
• Adler PlanetariumMuseum0.84 km · 10 min walk
• Grant ParkPark0.96 km · 12 min walk
• Buckingham FountainAttraction1.07 km · 13 min walk