23 Museums in ILLINOIS (Historical, Scientific, & Artistic)

Are you looking for a place to have a quiet date or a fun place to take your kids?

Your search is now over!

A museum is perfect for learning about the artistic, scientific, and cultural past while having fun.

For parents who want to get some time away while making sure their kids are well cared for, knowing where the museums in a city are is a must!

If you are a teen or young adult who wants to enjoy yourself on a budget, the museum should be on the list.

Museums don’t cost an arm and a leg, so what are you waiting for?

Come and learn about the 23 best museums in Illinois, the home state of Abraham Lincoln.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Aquariums in Illinois.

Museums in Chicago, Illinois

1. The Art Institute of Chicago (Founded 1879 & World-Class Art)

This museum is one of the oldest and most prominent museums in the United States.

The institute receives up to 1.5 million visitors yearly and is home to artworks of worldwide acclaim, including the famous painting titled The Bedroom by Vincent Van Gogh.

A masterpiece housing other masterpieces, this museum, founded in 1879, has three floors and numerous wings to view art from different periods.

You can take the bus to visit the museum or pack the family in the car and take them on a museum tour that will ignite the spirit of art enthusiasm in them.

The museum also has adequate parking for its guests.

There is a small entrance fee – 25 dollars for adults and 19 dollars for teenagers, students, and seniors- but free for children aged 12 and under.

Address: 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

2. Field Museum (Diverse Exhibits & Family-Friendly)

Does your kid rave on and on about dinosaurs?

You must take them to see the infamous and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex at the Field Museum!

A tourist hotspot, this museum will take you on a journey from the Egyptian Dead to the glorious relics from the ancient Aztec and Chinese empires.

The museum admits children aged three to eleven for 17 dollars, while children aged thirteen to adults must pay an entrance fee of 24 dollars.

Seniors only have to pay 21 dollars to enter, and groups of ten visiting the museum are also eligible for a group discount.

You can also hold events at this place, as the museum has a seating space of up to 10,000 people.

The museum also has a spectacular view of Lake Michigan, which provides a calm and beautiful ambiance.

Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, United States

3. Chicago Museum of Science and Industry (Interactive Science Exhibits)

For lovers of science, this museum is a must-visit.

The Museum of Science and Industry is a child-friendly museum that will wake wonder in all hearts, no matter your age.

One of the most popular parts of the museum is the Idea Factory, a place filled with scientific toys, including a water play area and an artificial river.

The museum also has an immersive World War II experience, so this is a warning for folks likely to be triggered by the Nazi era.

Food spots are abundant at the museum, so you don’t have to worry about packing food when planning a trip here.

Kids also need to burn up all that energy they spent observing the wonders the museum has to offer, and for that, there is a Move Your Body segment, where the kids can follow an instructional video to get some much-needed exercise.

Address: 5700 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60637, United States

4. Adler Planetarium (Real-Time Astronomy Experiences)

Are you looking to connect with other astronomers?

Welcome to the Adler Planetarium, a place that allows you to participate in real-time astronomy by studying the planets and the stars!

The planetarium is unique because the museum’s administration is actively involved in grassroots education by organizing outreach programs like community skywatching.

They offer different passes, ranging from two-show passes to all-year passes for ardent astronomers. 

Prices of the passes range from 8 dollars to 180 dollars.

The planetarium’s opening hours are from 9 am to 4 pm every day, except Wednesday when the planetarium closes at 10 pm.

On Wednesdays, they also offer free entry for all Illinois residents with proof of residency.

It is best to use public transportation to get to the museum, as the area often hosts several public events that may affect parking.

Address: 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605, United States

Also see our article on Planetariums in Illinois.

Museums in Springfield, Illinois

1. Illinois State Museum (State History & Interactive Learning)

This museum holds the past of the great state of Illinois 

It tells the story of the lives and art of famous people who come from or have resided in the state.

The museum sports temporary and permanent exhibits, with the temporary exhibits shown on rotation every few months.

Illinois State Museum is a child-friendly place, and you can bring your child to make art, play and learn about fossils, insects, and animals in an interactive play area.

Parents should note that the place does not allow food or beverages inside, nor does it have restaurants to eat at, so it is best to feed your kids before entering the museum or plan a food date after having fun at the museum.

Visitors may take photographs in all places except the Art Gallery

There are lockers to stash personal items and other accessibility facilities like wheelchairs, strollers, and accessible restrooms. 

Address: 502 S. Spring St., Springfield, IL 62706, United States

2. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Civil War Era Experience)

There is no better place to learn about one of America’s founding fathers than in a museum and library dedicated to him in his home state.

On any day of the week, visitors are treated to live reenactments of the 19th century, including an opportunity to listen to a Civil War orchestra and attend a Civil War ball to understand the social norms from that period.

Theater lovers, this museum displays several famous theater productions, including plays like One Destiny and The Last of Mrs. Lincoln.

The cost of admission ranges from 6 to 15 dollars, but it is free for children aged four and below and for ALPLM members.

Opening hours start from 9 am to 5 pm all year round, except holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Thanksgiving.

This museum also offers different amenities, such as event venues and catering.

Address: 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL 62701, United States

3. Air Combat Museum (WWII Aircraft History)

Aircraft lovers will have a field day at this museum. 

The museum hosts aircraft history and memorabilia from World War II.

Pictures are allowed in the facility, and a tour guide explains each aircraft’s history and role in military aviation.

Some of the historic aircraft include a Soko G-21 Galeb, a P-51 Mustang, and a 1930s Fleet Model 9 biplane.

They also regularly collect and display fighter planes used in war.

The museum is open weekdays from 9 am to 4 pm, and visitors can be given a private tour of the facility for 20 dollars an hour.

Parking is available, and visitors can use public transportation or drive their cars to the museum.

Plane owners and lovers can learn to fix, maintain and care for their planes under the training of the management of the museum.

They also have a gift shop where visitors can purchase aircraft-themed clothing, toys, and other items.

Address: 835 South Airport Rd, Springfield, IL, United States

4. Elijah Iles House (Oldest Structure in Springfield)

This museum is famous for being the oldest structure in Springfield, outlasting both the First and Second World Wars.

The house belonged to Elijah Iles, one of the city’s earliest settlers.

A treasure trove of Illinois memories, the house showcases the colonial architecture of the state, and the heavy furniture of that period, especially the use of black walnut in the construction of the house.

Elijah Iles ran the first store in Springfield and was integral to forming the Illinois seat of government in Springfield.

Due to the significance of Elijah’s contributions to the formation of Springfield, and the unique architectural style of the house, the National Register of Historic Places listed the building as a historical and architectural keepsake.

The museum is open only on Saturdays from 12 pm to 4 pm.

Address: 628 S 7th St, Springfield, IL 62703, United States

Also see our article on Attractions in Illinois.

Museums in Pontiac, Illinois

1. Pontiac Oakland Auto Museum (Vintage Auto Collection)

There’s nothing better for a car enthusiast to do in Illinois than to visit the Pontiac Oakland Auto Museum.

Originally called the Oakland brand, the Pontiac brand changed its name after because the car was produced in Pontiac, Illinois.

The administration showcases an ever-changing display of automobiles to the delight of any visitors in the area.

Asides from showing several significant and vintage automobiles, the Pontiac Oakland Auto Museum also sports a resource library where one can get information on maps, designs, brochures, and manuals relating to different cars from different eras of the Pontiac Auto brand.

The museum does not require an entrance fee, though they accept donations.

Members of the museum are also to pay dues.

However, these dues entitle the members to other attractions unavailable to non-members.

There is also an extensive collection of oil cans – over 2,000!

They open from 3 am to 5 pm daily

Address: 205 N Mill Street, Pontiac, IL 61764, United States

2. Museum of the Gilding Arts (Gold & Silver Craftsmanship)

Are you interested in the workings and craftsmanship of gold?

Go no further; the Museum of the Gilding Arts is the place for you!

Founded in 1887, this museum hosts an extensive collection of global knowledge on using gold and silver in ancient and modern architecture.

Interestingly, the museum was a Smithsonian idea meant to last temporarily for an exhibition.

However, the family managing the museum has a history with gilding and needed a good space to continue their operations.

The museum is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.

An entrance fee is unnecessary, although donations are acceptable to the organization.

The museum also has a gift shop where gilding hobbyists and other visitors can purchase gilded items and information related to gilding.

There is also adequate and accessible parking space for the museum

Address: 217 N Mill Street, Pontiac, IL 61764, United States

3. Jones House Museum (Historical Brick Building)

The Jones House was built by John Dehner, an industrialist essential to creating the Chicago railroad.

Its moniker, however, stems from the person who purchased the building in 1899, Henry C. Jones, a prominent personality in Pontiac.

Henry Jones was a newspaper publisher and Pontiac Light, Heat, and Power Company president.

The Jones House is the oldest brick building in Pontiac and is registered in the National Register of Historic Places.

Some reasons for this registration include that the house is the best model of Gothic revival architecture in the region and was built on a limestone foundation, which is no longer a common practice in Pontiac.

The house has also undergone reconstruction in several parts, including the wooden shingles on the roof that was part of the original construction.

Address: 314 E Madison St, Pontiac, IL 61764, United States

4. The International Walldog Mural and Sign Art Museum (Outdoor Murals & Route 66 History)

Painters in Pontiac need to visit The International Walldog Mural and Sign Art Museum to appreciate the history of outdoor murals and painting using unorthodox tools.

This museum derives its name, “Walldog,” from the culture of early painters who painted on the city’s brick walls and other non-canvas surfaces to showcase their art.

Some paintings can still be seen on old Pontiac buildings and roads, although many are faded or peeling.

This museum includes a section dedicated to the Route 66 paintings, a famous road with hand-painted signs to direct motorists and other road users.

A group of painters nicknamed themselves Walldogs and are committed to preserving the history of outdoor murals.

The museum is only open from October to April, while they are closed during the winter and other significant holidays.

Opening hours start from 9 am to 5 pm daily, when the museum is open.

Address: Pontiac Museum Complex, 110 W. Howard St. Pontiac, IL 61764, United States

Also see our article on Book Stores in Illinois.

Museums in Rockford, Illinois

1. Discovery Center Museum (Interactive Science Exhibits)

This museum has been around for at least four decades and is a state treasure.

It was founded in the old Rockford Post Office building and only catered to field trips by school students.

The museum started with only 20 exhibits but has long grown since then.

It is now open for public viewing and has a continually expanding exhibit area, an outdoor science park, and the Discovery Center.

The discovery center is one of the museum’s major attractions, as kids and adult visitors worldwide flock to the museum to view the dinosaur exhibits.

This museum is currently owned and managed by the Rockford Park District.

The administration also manages the Rockford Symphony Orchestra and the Rockford Dance Company in the same building, so visitors can have a triple treat when visiting the museum.

Address: 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103, United States

2. Burpee Museum of Natural History (Earth’s History Exploration)

Learn about the Earth’s history at the Burpee Museum of Natural History!

Visitors may purchase tickets at different price ranges.

It is free for children aged three and under.

Children aged 4-12 have to pay 10 dollars, while for teenagers and adults, it is 13 dollars.

The museum is open Monday to Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm, and is closed on major holidays.

There is accessible parking and entrances available to those who need it.

They also have event spaces routinely used for workshops, birthday parties, and weddings.

The animal exhibitions are the major attractions of this museum, although there are other exhibitions spanning the museum’s three floors.

Donations are welcome by the management, and one can also become a member of the organization and access special perks in the museum.

Address: 737 North Main Street, Rockford, IL, United States

3. Rockford Art Museum (Diverse Art Mediums)

The Rockford Art Museum is a beautiful place that showcases art using different mediums.

Opening times start from 10 am to 5 pm.

The museum is only open from Thursday to Sunday, so for tourists spending a weekend in Rockford, this is a perfect place to visit.

Admission is free for all ages, and there is accessible parking, so visitors are encouraged to use whatever mode of transportation they wish.

Service animals, wheelchairs, and strollers are permitted in the museum.

Although the museum does not require entrance fees, they accept donations and other financial support through memberships.

Members are entitled to a 10% discount in the gift shop, receive a magazine detailing the museum’s report for the year, and special invites to preview exhibitions before they are open to the public.

The museum offers a rental space for people to host events such as weddings, workshops, and parties.

Address: 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103, United States

4. Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens (Victorian Era Artifacts)

The Tinker Swiss Cottage is home to artifacts and memorabilia from the Victorian Era.

Purchased by Robert Tinker, the inspiration for the cottage and gardens came to him from his expeditions to Switzerland, where he loved the Swiss style of architecture.

After his life, his trustees donated the house to the Rockford Park District as a keepsake of Swiss architecture in the United States.

It was made open to the public in 1943.

The museum has entrance fees ranging from 5 dollars to 9 dollars, depending on your age.

Food, drinks, and flash photography are not permitted in the museum.

Service animals are allowed.

However, strollers are prohibited.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission times are 1 pm and 3 pm only. Only guides can take visitors on the museum tour, as unsupervised viewings are prohibited.

Address: 411 Kent St, Rockford, IL 61102, United States

5. Midway Village Museum (Rockford’s Past & Interactive Exhibits)

View Rockford’s past when you visit the Midway Village Museum!

The museum was founded in 1968 by the Harlem, Rockford, and Swedish societies.

Midway Village Museum’s main attractions are interactive exhibitions like the Old Doll’s House and the Industrial Gallery.

The main museum center is open year-round, showcasing its permanent exhibits, except Mondays.

Some temporary exhibits can also be found in this museum.

Opening hours are from 10 am to 4 pm.

Self-guided tours are allowed, although tour guides are available at the visitor’s request.

There is also a gift shop where you can purchase a range of unique memorabilia.

Depending on the exhibition, admission fees range from 7 dollars to 13 dollars.

The museum is open for rental and features other amenities like racks to provide a more accessible way to move around the museum.

Address: 6799 Guilford Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, United States

Also see our article on Golf Courses in Illinois.

Museums in Aurora, Illinois

1. Aurora Regional Fire Museum (Firefighting History)

Welcome to a museum dedicated to the firefighting heroes of Aurora!

The museum was commissioned in 1966 by Chief Erwin J. Bauman, who wished to safeguard the history of firefighting in Aurora.

It was opened for public viewing in 1986 but fell into disrepair and neglect till 2000, when the Aurora fire department got a grant from Illinois State to revitalize it.

The museum offers different packages, including museum tours, rentals and parties, field trips, scout programs, history presentations, and educational resources.

Exhibitions span a permanent gallery showcasing the technologies used in firefighting over the years, an education room to show people fire safety measures and what to do in the event of a fire, the history of the Aurora fire department, and a children’s discovery room that allows children to have an interactive experience with the museum.

The museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays.

Address: 53 N Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505, United States

2. Air Classics Museum (Interactive Aviation Experience)

The Air Classics Museum is an aviation museum where you can sit in the pilot’s seat and fly a plane!

Open April through November, the museum’s opening times are only on Saturday and Sunday, from 10 am to 3 pm.

The price of admission ranges from 5 dollars to 10 dollars, and children ages five and under can get in for free.

Accompanying the museum is the Airplane Park, sporting aircraft of different kinds where you can see a live version of what you learned about in the museum.

There is free and accessible parking.

The museum has an extensive collection of aircraft, including fighter planes and bomb planes created for America’s use in World War II.

Membership forms are open to the public, and fees range from 15 to 350 dollars.

Benefits of being a member include free entry to the museum on open days and a discount at the gift store.

Address: 44W546 US-30, Sugar Grove, IL 60554, United States

3. Schingoethe Center Museum (Native American History)

This museum is a tribute to the Native Americans who once inhabited most of the land in America today.

An affiliate of the Smithsonian, it was founded to preserve Native American history, culture, and arts.

It is located at Aurora State University, and all of its exhibitions do not require an admission fee from the public.

The museum also accepts artworks from non-Native Americans, as far as they enrich Native American history.

They allow group tours and provide guides but are open to self-guided tours.

There is free and accessible parking at the Center.

Wheelchairs and strollers are allowed into the building.

Photography is also allowed.

Visitors may pick up art from the gift shop and are encouraged to commission art from the artists.

The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Mondays to Fridays, except Tuesdays when they close by 7 pm.

Address: 1315 Prairie St, Aurora, IL 60506, United States

4. Grand Army of the Republic Military Museum (Civil War Veterans Memorial)

Veterans, military personnel, and military enthusiasts will enjoy this museum.

Founded by the Grand Army of the Republic and the Soldiers’ Monument Association as a memorial to Civil War veterans, these groups have fought for veterans’ benefits, including advocating for their pension, housing, and family provisions.

The museum is only open to the public on Wednesdays to Sundays, from 112 pm to 4 pm.

However, visitors can make special appointments for tours on other days of the week.

Their exhibitions include war memorabilia, historical artifacts, and genealogical inquiries.

Admission does not require a fee.

However, donations to the museum are welcome and necessary to support the organization.

Memberships are also available to the public for fees ranging from 25 dollars to 250 dollars.

They also host several events, including Armed Forces Week, and celebrate military holidays.

Their spaces are open for rentals.

Address: 23 E Downer Pl, Aurora, IL 60505, United States

Also see our article on Safari in Illinois.

Museums in Joliet, Illinois

1. Illinois Rock and Roll Museum (Music History & Education)

This museum is an NGO dedicated to safeguarding the history of famous musicians and bands from Illinois. 

They have a gift shop to purchase musical instruments and music-related items.

The museum finances itself through donations and member fees.

Membership entitles you to specific perks, including discounts at the gift shop, free admission, and a chance to vote for your favorite musician to be inducted into the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Exhibitions consist of awards won by prominent musicians from Illinois, who sent them to the museum for use.

A remarkable fact about this museum is that it undertakes music education for the public, which can be taught online or through physical classes.

They host events and rent their spaces out to the public.

Address: 9 W Cass St, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

2. Slovenian Women’s Union and Heritage Museum (Slovenian Culture & Artifacts)

The museum is on Route 66 and was founded in 1983 by Irene M. Odorizzi.

It is focused on the culture, life, and art of Slovenians in America.

To finance the museum, they accept donations.

Donations over 100 dollars earn the donor a plaque displayed in the museum.

Such plaques may be inscribed with your name or that of a friend or relative.

Smaller donations are also acknowledged in the museum.

Exhibits include keepsakes, artifacts, photographs, and other precious memorabilia about Slovenia and its people.

Funding from the museum also goes to other educational programs they sponsor, including the Slovenian Women’s Union Scholarship Foundation.

They have an online library that Slovenians can use to trace their genealogy.

Zarja, the museum’s publication, contains the memorials purchased in the museum and other relevant content and is available to members.

Address: 431 N Chicago St, Joliet, IL 60432, United States

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