Rich history meets a healthy dash of modern design across Chicago’s impressive cityscape. It’s no wonder that the “Windy City” saw over 55 million tourists in 2017 alone. If you are intent on a journey to this remarkable slice of Americana for the first time or for the fiftieth, there’s always a reason to explore Illinois’ beauty with the comfort and awe-inspiring scenery that continues to impress travelers after nearly two centuries. When you choose to stay at the Chicago Lake Shore Hotel you will be centered close to the city’s favourite attractions, bustling art scene, and fabulous nightlife.
While staying with us we definitely recommend exploring Chicago to its fullest – and encourage you to consider some of the great museums in the area. We are certainly lucky to live in a city that has such a strong connection to its history and a commitment to bringing culture into the lives of our citizens and tourists alike. We hope that you have a fantastic experience here at the Chicago Lake Shore Hotel and would like to recommend five of our favourite museum options:
1. The Art Institute of Chicago
Founded in 1879, this iconic building features some of the most impressive collections – as well as one of the largest collections – of art in the United States. A gem for art buffs hungry to absorb delightful pieces that include George Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte and the impossible to miss work of Picasso: The Old Guitarist. What you will witness here will stay with you for a lifetime, and noting that there are over 300,000 pieces to explore across more than 30 special exhibitions that are mounted yearly, the Art Institute of Chicago is a place worth returning to time and time again.
2. The Museum of Science and Industry
Continuing your exploration of Chicago’s eclectic style and nuance, we highly recommend heading over to the Museum of Science and Industry. After all, these are two of the pillars that hold up the United States. Established in 1933, history has unfolded alongside this majestic building, set upon a scenic lagoon and situated between Lake Michigan and The University of Chicago, you will find inspiration and awe within the walls of this prestigious building. From full-size replicas of a coal mine to the U-505, a German submarine captured during World War II and all the way to the incredible 3,500-square-foot model railroad, there’s something for all minds here!
3. The Field Museum of Natural History
Often referred to as simply, ‘the Field Museum’, you will find natural wonders, exhibits, and information that will tantalize and thrill throughout this enormous museum. In fact, reputation has it that the Field Museum is one of the largest of its kind in the world! Diverse and high-quality permanent exhibits ensure you will always have a great experience with friends and family while exploring the various collections. Well worth a look while you’re in Chicago!
4. Adler Planetarium
Who doesn’t love the notion of star spotting? Now, at the Adler Planetarium, you may not see Brad Pitt, but you will definitely find an experience worth telling others about. Founded in 1930, the Adler Planetarium has continued to attract amateur astronomers from across the world to its impressive facility. With three full-size theaters, expansive space science exhibitions, and a wealth of antique scientific instruments and print materials, you’re sure to leave with a sense of the grandeur of our universe thanks to this modernized planetarium experience. It doesn’t hurt that in 1987 the building was declared a National Historic Landmark, ensuring that it will stand the test of time for years of visitors ahead.
5. DuSable Museum of African American History
Explore the cultural points and the exhibits that delve into people who have shaped the United States and the world beyond it at the DuSable Museum of African American History. Founded in 1961, the museum sets out to celebrate black culture and offer perspectives that are so often overlooked. Expansion efforts in 1993 provided more room to house the incredible collection of artifacts, books, photographs, art objects, and memorabilia. As of 2016, the DuSable Museum of African American History has formed an affiliation with the Smithsonian Institution, ensuring an even stronger future. For those interested in immersing themselves in African American History, there are few places better than the DuSable Museum.
6. BONUS: National Museum of Mexican Art
While you’re exploring Chicago’s unique flairs and personalities, there’s certainly good reason to make a visit to the National Museum of Mexican Art. Opened in 1987, this is one of the newer such museums in the city and offers a diverse collection of art and work from prominent Mexican creatives and remains to be the only Latino museum accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The core value and social consciousness of the museum is to display Mexican culture as one ‘sin fronteras’ (without borders). The museum describes itself as the largest Latino cultural institution in America and is sure to provide visitors and locals alike with great memories and an incredible journey through art and aesthetics.