5 Fun Exhibits to See in Chicago This Fall

Chicago is full of many types of museums, from art to natural history to sports museums. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which museums you want to prioritize on your visit to the city. However, by researching which exhibits you want to see at certain museums, you’ll be able to decide more easily. Pick exhibits that are not only interesting to you, but are also unique to the museum and to Chicago. We’ve curated a list of 5 fun exhibits to see in Chicago this fall.

Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes

One new and popular exhibit that is a must-see this fall is Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes at the Museum of Science and Industry. It is the largest exhibition celebrating the Marvel Universe with more than 300 artifacts including original comic book pages, sculptures, interactive displays, and costumes and props from Marvel’s blockbuster films. Examine the origins of iconic characters such as Spider-Man, Black Panther, Hulk, and Captain Marvel and see how they have evolved alongside society over the past 80 years, making these characters a pop culture mainstay. The exhibit runs through October 24.

Richard Hunt’s Scholar’s Rock or Stone of Hope or Love of Bronze

Chicago-based artist Richard Hunt’s sculptures at the Art Institute of Chicago were created using welded metal. Hunt reused scraps and found metal to shape his sculptures, welding them together in a process that continued for many years. His massive bronze statue is complemented by two other large-scale stainless steel sculptures, as well as a selection of smaller-scaled bronzes, all of which were completed in the last 20 years. The installation is located on the museum’s Bluhm Family Terrace, where you can see the sculptures against the Chicago skyline. 

Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet and SUE the T. rex

In the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet at the Field Museum of Natural History, you’ll be able to get to know the many creatures that have roamed the earth throughout history, from single-celled organisms to our extended human family. Experience a variety of fossils, animated videos, and interactive displays that tell the story of evolution, the process that connects all living things on Earth. Then, make sure you don’t miss the Elizabeth Morse Genius Hall of Dinosaurs to see more than a dozen of the biggest creatures in our history. You’ll be able to view SUE the T. rex, the museum’s most famous fossil.

The Vortex Tunnel

The Museum of Illusions Chicago is like no place you’ve been before—a place where you can immerse yourself in the world of illusions. Check out the Vortex Tunnel exhibit, an exhilarating illusion that will completely confuse your brain and vestibular system. As soon as you step inside the Vortex Tunnel, you’ll notice that the effects are inescapable. Your mind will tell you that the ground under your feet is moving when in fact, you are walking on a completely flat and stable surface. There are more than 80 visual and educational exhibits that feature holograms, stereograms, optical illusions, and immersive rooms at the Museum of Illusions Chicago.

Shedd Aquarium’s penguins

Shedd Aquarium is home to two species of penguin: rockhopper and Magellanic. 

Located in the Polar Play Zone, you’ll be able to see these two types of penguin species exploring their home and swimming around. Shedd Aquarium also offers interactive experiences for kids. From there, head to the Icy North to explore Arctic waters in a kid-sized submarine.

Planning your trip to Chicago

Whether you choose to visit Chicago now or in the future, you’ll have a unique and fun time, not to mention all of the exciting exhibits and museums that you’ll be able to experience. After you’ve selected your travel dates, you’ll need to decide where you’ll stay on your trip. Consider booking a hotel located in the heart of the city, close to many of these museums. Now you’re ready for your upcoming trip to Chicago filled with adventures and spectacular sights. 

Need a place to stay when visiting Chicago? Book your reservation here.