Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Activity Overview

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, also known as The Museum of the Chicago Academy of the Sciences, is a nature museum located in Chicago's popular Lincoln Park. Its collections feature thousands of natural specimens and cultural artifacts that are used to inform the public about the natural history of the Chicago area.

This museum is a great place to spend a few hours with the family learning about nature before heading over to nearby Lincoln Park Zoo to see all the animals in their habitats.

Things to Do

• Check out the museum's fascinating and informative exhibits, including Rainforest Adventure and Birds of Chicago, which introduces visitors of all ages to over 115 bird species. You can even listen to the sounds they make by using an interactive touchscreen display.
• Explore the museum's vast collections - they contain over 13,000 birds, 5,000 mammals, 68,000 insects, and 22,000 fossils, as well as thousands of amphibians, reptiles, cultural artifacts, photographs, and films.
• Don't miss the Butterfly Haven, one of the museum's most popular areas. Walk through a beautiful space filled with lush greenery and enjoy the magical experience of dozens of butterflies soaring through the air around you. Kids are particularly enchanted when the butterflies land on them.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Insider Tips

• If you have young children, you'll be happy to hear that kids under 3 get in for free! The nature museum is also free for all Illinois residents on Thursdays, though donations are suggested.
• Visit the gift shop after your visit to find the perfect souvenir or a gift for a fellow nature lover. Items for sale include jewelry and books, plus honey made by the museum's own bees!

• Snacks and drinks are available at the museum cafe, or you can eat whatever food you brought along with you on a bench while enjoying the spectacular view of North Pond.

• A great way to extend your nature-themed day in Chicago is by taking some time to explore the rest of Lincoln Park. Its free zoo is especially beloved by visitors of all ages, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Chicago area.