Field Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Field Museum?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 dig fossils in the PlayLab, test biomechanics, and meet SUE; family restrooms, lockers, kid menus, and stroller-friendly routes keep the visit educational and low-stress.
Positives:
- Family-friendly labs: Several free interactive zones keep kids engaged and learning.
- Stroller and dining support: Wide ramps, family restrooms, and free snack tables make breaks easy.
Challenges:
- Large museum layout: The building spans two city blocks and kids may tire from long walks.
- Timed add-ons cost extra: Special exhibits and films require separate tickets and can add to budget.
What is Field Museum?
- A natural history museum in Chicago, founded in 1893, devoted to biodiversity, anthropology, and the fossil record
- Repository for over 40 million specimens and objects, including SUE, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered
- Housed in a neoclassical landmark on the city’s Museum Campus, combining majestic historic halls with contemporary gallery additions
What is so special about Field Museum for with kids?
- Hands-on PlayLab and science hub engage kids in age-appropriate activities.
- Iconic SUE the T. rex and Evolving Planet halls spark curiosity and photos.
- Biomechanics exhibits let children test strength and learn animal science.
- Self-guided scavenger hunts and text-a-dino add fun discovery elements.
- Family lounges, ramps, and restrooms make navigating and breaks easy.
Recommended visit duration: 3-5 hours
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 3-5 hour visit lets families enjoy top exhibits, interactive labs, and rest breaks without feeling rushed.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Field Museum
Crown Family PlayLab:
Interactive zone where kids dig for fossils, make music, and explore world cultures.
Tip: Arrive at 10 am to join Itty Bitty Investigators story times and avoid midday crowd.
Grainger Science Hub:
Hands-on demos with specimens and live SEM demonstrations.
Tip: Check the schedule at the entrance for demo times to plan your visit.
Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet & SUE the T. rex:
Meet the world’s largest T. rex and walk through a 4.5 billion-year timeline.
Tip: Visit SUE first to take photos before the hall fills up.
The Machine Inside: Biomechanics:
Interactive exhibits let kids test strength, speed, and other animal mechanics.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for activities that involve jumping and running.
Máximo Text-a-Dino & Dinosaur Highlights Guide:
Scavenger hunt via text and a free booklet lead you to must-see fossils.
Tip: Pick up the guide at the info desk and text for hints during your walk.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Field Museum
- Buy tickets online: Reserve general admission and add-ons in advance to skip ticket lines.
- Plan breaks at Siragusa Center: Bring snacks and use free tables to rest without queuing at cafés.
- Use stroller parking: Leave strollers at designated areas before entering 3D theaters and exhibits.
Reviews of Field Museum
Ksenia Busygina
We had the opportunity to be a vendor with Captured Moments Collective Photo Booth at the Field Museum during First Bites Bash, the opening night of 2026 Chicago Restaurant Week. The venue itself is absolutely stunning and exceptionally well suited for large-scale, high-profile events. From load-in to setup, the space is thoughtfully designed and efficiently managed, which makes a big difference f...
Devin Pelkey
A truly word-class museum destination. I was there for 5 hours and didn’t see it all. I’ll have to come back for another look. From dinosaurs, to ancient Egypt, to a huge collection of taxidermy animals, to meteorites and unique rocks. This has something for everyone. There’s an onsite cafe selling sandwiches and salads that are tasty and unique beers named after Sue and the dinosaurs.
Alex Brodsky
Awesome museam... came here 10+ years ago for Christmas & back years later and still magical. Sue was moved, but still there and standing strong. Easy and cheaper parking (considering the price/taxes in the city). Adults and children would both enjoy. IMO: plan for 2 days if you take your time, it's very big and unlikely that you can see it all in one day without spending from open to close the...
Elaine Cabaltera
The Field Museum is huge with so much to see. I only had about two hours and it definitely wasn’t enough to get through everything. You’ll want to set aside at least 4–5 hours if you really want to take it all in. The exhibits are jam-packed with fascinating info about animals, dinosaurs and so much more. My favourite sections were the plant exhibit and the jade collection. Such a cool and immersi...
Shanz Shanz
🦖 My Visit to the Field Museum, Chicago The Field Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for anyone in Chicago! Located on the Museum Campus near Lake Michigan, it’s one of the largest natural history museums in the world, offering a fascinating journey through the planet’s past and present. The museum’s star attraction is Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever di...
When is the best time to visit Field Museum (Chicago, United States)?
Summer weekends bring large crowds to the dinosaur halls; visit on weekday afternoons for shorter lines. During Chicago winters, use indoor areas like PlayLab and lounges to warm up.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult General Admission | USD 60 |
| 2 Child General Admission | USD 60 |
| Locker Rental (medium) | USD 10 |
| Lunch and Snacks | USD 40 |
| Reptiles Alive! add-on | USD 28 |
| Total Estimated | USD 198 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Field Museum
Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
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About Field Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 312-922-9410Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
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