Field Museum of Natural History Admission Tickets

Discover the Wonders of the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago

The Field Museum of Natural History offers an engaging experience at an accessible price of $29 per person. With a roughly 4-hour duration, visitors get a chance to explore more than 26 million artifacts across a vast collection. The museum, located on Chicago’s iconic Museum Campus, presents a compelling mix of dinosaur fossils, ancient cultural relics, and sparkling gemstone displays. Its standout feature is SUE, the world’s largest and most complete T. Rex fossil, which draws many visitors eager to see this prehistoric giant.

This ticket includes general admission and access to ticketed special exhibits if upgraded. The museum also offers free daily tours led by knowledgeable docents, making it easier to navigate and absorb the highlights. While the admission can be booked **up to five days in advance, it remains a popular choice for families, culture enthusiasts, and natural history buffs seeking a full day of educational exploration.

Key Points

• Price: Only $29.00 per person for general admission
• Duration: Around 4 hours to comfortably explore the exhibits
• Highlights: Features SUE the T. Rex, Egyptian mummies, and the Hall of Gems
• Special options: Upgrade to access special exhibitions
• Convenience: Pre-booking guarantees entry and shortens wait times
• Location: Situated on Chicago’s Museum Campus with views of Lake Michigan
• Tours: Free daily docent-led tours available to enhance understanding
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, with service animals allowed

Location and Setting on Chicago’s Museum Campus

The Field Museum is centrally located on Chicago’s Museum Campus, offering scenic views overlooking Lake Michigan and the city skyline. This prime position makes arriving by public transportation straightforward, and the spacious campus provides a scenic backdrop for your museum visit. The hotel’s grand architecture sets an inviting tone for the vast interior filled with natural and cultural artifacts.

Upon entry, visitors are greeted with a stately, imposing building that houses diverse exhibits spanning thousands of years. The surroundings are designed to highlight the museum’s impressive collection while providing a comfortable environment to explore at your own pace.

The Iconic SUE the T. Rex: A Dinosaur Lover’s Dream

The star attraction at the Field Museum is undoubtedly SUE, the largest, most complete T. Rex fossil ever discovered. This fossil attracts visitors of all ages with its impressive size and detailed preservation. Viewing SUE provides a tangible connection to prehistoric life, and the museum’s display is designed to let viewers appreciate the scale and intricacies of this ancient predator.

Adjacent to SUE, the Dinosaur Hall, now called Evolving Planet, features other noteworthy specimens such as giant sloths and woolly mammoths. The hall’s recent renovation ensures visitors experience the dinosaurs and prehistoric mammals in a modern, well-organized setting.

Exploring Ancient Cultures and Artifacts

The museum’s Ancient Americas exhibit spans 13,000 years of history, from Ice Age mammoth hunters to the temple builders of the Incas and Aztecs. Visitors can view exquisitely preserved artifacts and learn about ancient civilizations that shaped history.

In the Inside Ancient Egypt section, 23 Egyptian mummies and 5,000-year-old hieroglyphics showcase Egypt’s cultural richness. This exhibit provides a detailed look into ancient funerary practices and art, appealing to those fascinated by ancient civilizations.

The Sparkling Hall of Gems and Chinese Jade Collection

The Hall of Gems dazzles with a large collection of gemstones and minerals, including Chinese jade, among the most extensive in North America. The display combines beauty and scientific detail, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and natural wonder behind each piece.

The Gems exhibit offers a close-up view of shimmering stones, making it a favorite among visitors craving visual splendor. The Hall of Jades features Chinese jade artifacts that highlight the craftsmanship and cultural importance of jade in East Asian history.

Special Exhibits and Upgrades for a Tailored Experience

While general admission covers the core exhibits, visitors can choose to upgrade their tickets to access special exhibitions. These temporary or themed exhibits often showcase unique artifacts or thematic displays not included in the standard entry.

Upgrading provides an opportunity to see additional curated collections and can deepen the educational experience. For those interested in specific themes or artifacts, the extra cost is well justified.

Guided Tours and Self-Guided Exploration

The Field Museum offers free daily docent-led tours, which help visitors understand exhibits more deeply. These tours cover highlights like SUE, Egyptian mummies, and the Hall of Gems. The guides are knowledgeable and foster engaging discussions, making the museum’s vast collection more accessible.

For visitors who prefer independent exploration, the museum provides maps in multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Polish, and Portuguese. This variety ensures a comfortable experience for international travelers.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Museum

The opening hours are from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last general admission at 4 pm and the last special exhibit admission at 3:30 pm. To avoid missing out, arriving early is advisable, especially if planning to see multiple exhibits.

Pre-booked tickets streamline entry, allowing visitors to skip lines and maximize their time. The museum is close to public transportation and welcomes service animals, making access easier for all.

While the ticket price is affordable, note that food and drinks are not included and are available for purchase inside. The 3D movie is available at an additional charge and should be booked early, ideally arriving between 9 am and 12 pm to secure a spot.

Visitor Feedback and What to Expect

The overall rating is an impressive 4.5 out of 5, based on 417 reviews. Many praise the exhibits’ quality and staff’s helpfulness, noting that spending 4-5 hours is typical to see everything comfortably. Some reviews mention that exhibits can appear crowded, especially during spring break, so planning ahead can improve the experience.

A few reviewers express concerns about exhibit temperature and early closing times, but these are relatively minor compared to the overall positive impressions. Visitors consistently highlight SUE, the Egyptian mummies, and the Gems collection as must-see highlights.

The Best for Families and Educational Explorers

This museum caters well to families, offering interactive exhibits for children and ample space for wandering. The small size of children and interest in natural history or ancient cultures make this a memorable outing for those seeking an educational and fun experience.

Those with a passion for dinosaurs or ancient civilizations will find enough variety to fill an entire day. The museum’s engaging displays and free guided tours support both casual visitors and serious enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Field Museum

The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago delivers a well-rounded experience for just $29, especially with the option to upgrade to special exhibits. Its impressive collection, led by SUE the T. Rex, and the Egyptian mummies, provide unforgettable highlights. The free daily tours enhance understanding, making the visit both fun and educational.

While crowds and exhibit temperatures can sometimes be a challenge, these do not overshadow the museum’s overall excellence. This tour is most suited for families, museum lovers, and those eager to learn about natural and cultural history. Arrive early, pre-book tickets, and take advantage of guided tours to make the most of your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket to the Field Museum expensive?
No, the general admission ticket costs $29 per person, which includes access to most core exhibits.

Can I upgrade my ticket for special exhibits?
Yes, there are options to add one or several special exhibitions to your ticket for an extra charge.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, free docent-led tours are held daily, providing helpful insights into the exhibits.

How long should I plan to spend at the museum?
Most visitors allocate around 4 hours, but the museum’s size and exhibits may justify up to 5 hours or more.

What are the museum’s hours?
The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last general admission at 4 pm and the last special exhibit admission at 3:30 pm.

Is the museum accessible for all visitors?
Yes, the museum is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed.

Are there food options inside?
Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased inside the museum.

Do I need to pre-book my tickets?
Pre-booking is recommended to avoid lines and guarantee your entry, especially during peak times.

What about transportation and parking?
The museum’s location makes it easy to reach via public transportation, with parking options nearby.

Can children enjoy the exhibits?
Absolutely, the museum is family-friendly, offering interactive and visually appealing displays suitable for all ages.