Exhibits
Temporary Exhibits
From live animals to nature-inspired art, from toddler-friendly play spaces to dozens of exotic butterfly species, our exhibits are sure to entertain, educate, and excite guests of all ages. All exhibits are included with admission to the Nature Museum.
Introducing the Flight of Butterflies! This city-wide exhibit merges nature, art, and story telling, creating a memorable experience for all in Chicago.
Wild World: Miracles in Conservation
Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in impromptu animal interactions, meet dynamic animal care specialists, and learn about conservation efforts from around the world.
Showcasing the photography of journalist Bob Benenson, Life on the Pond gives us a glimpse into the thriving habitat of North Pond amid the majestic silhouette of Chicago’s Skyline.
Exquisite Miniatures consists of over 50 signature paintings including landscapes, portraits, still lifes, wildlife, and other subjects.
A Turtle’s Story gives a behind-the-scenes look at the conservation efforts taking place at the museum, and across the city, to help give these turtles a much-needed head-start!
Permanent Exhibits
The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is the Museum’s internationally renowned signature 2,700-square-foot greenhouse. Home to more than 1,000 free-flying butterflies, it's the perfect tropical retreat.
Hawver and Lacy Families Nature’s PlaySpace
The Hawver and Lacy Families Nature’s PlaySpace is an interactive experience connecting our youngest guests to nature in new ways.
From cardinals to turkeys to Canada geese, discover 102 beautiful regional bird species in Birds of Chicago.
Measuring 1/3 of a mile, the Deb Lahey Nature Trails highlight native Illinois habitats through restored vignettes, gardens, and more all year long.
The Micole Birdwalk overlooks the Deb Lahey Nature Trails, North Pond, and the Nature Museum Ravine while providing an uninterrupted view of downtown Chicago’s famous skyline.
Witness the day-to-day work of the biologists and volunteers who care for the Nature Museum’s animals. Whether it’s feeding or turtle walk time, there’s always something happening in the Look-In Lab.
Discover why wetlands, which are home to nearly two-thirds of the endangered species in Illinois, are so important to our everyday lives in Mysteries of the Marsh.
Beecher Collections Laboratory
Get a glimpse behind the scenes with scientists, volunteers, and more in the Beecher Lab.
Take a stroll through Chicago…before it became the city we know today.
Step through a “door into nature” to immerse yourself in a variety of natural environments that ignite curiosity and unlock creativity.
The Sustainability Center makes sustainability efforts approachable for Illinois residents and visitors of all ages through interactives and resources that encourage local action.
Splash your way through RiverWorks and discover the beauty and complexities of natural and manmade flows through this interactive experience.
Woody Wickham Butterfly Garden
Featuring clusters of colorful flowers, the Woody Wickham Butterfly Garden is a popular stop for butterflies and other pollinators.
Experience nature and science up close with a trip to the Nature Museum.