The 20 Best Museums in Chicago (By a Local)

Updated August 14, 2025
Lea Rose Allbaugh
Ask me a question in the comments (4)
View of the Lion statue at the Entrance to the Art Institute of Chicago

I’m a Chicago local and in this guide, I cover the best museums in Chicago for every age and interest. 
The Windy City has long been a hub for science, art, and innovation. Not to mention, it’s a city with a rich and diverse history. Several Chicago museums highlight these topics and more in engaging, interactive ways — making them some of the best things to do in Chicago. This list features popular institutions and hidden gems that are sure to pique your curiosity!

20 Museums in Chicago
Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago’s most famous art museum is home to a massive collection of art from throughout history.
Inside the Art Institute of Chicago during the Cezanne special exhibit
📍 Google Maps | Museum Website | 🎫 Cost: $84 Adults, $62 y...

This Content is for Travel Lemming Passport members only.

Not a member? Get Your Passport Now
1st year free with code LEMMING

Lea Rose Allbaugh is Travel Lemming's managing editor and writer from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She’s currently based in Chicago (except for when she’s on a traveling stint), and is obsessed with all things travel. She caught the travel bug back in 2015 during an exchange to the Netherlands, and has been traveling ever since. Through her writing, she hopes to inspire others to get up and go experience the world. Aside from travel, she loves reading, writing, and anything creative. She writes on her website Written World.