If you’re an avid explorer with a thirst for knowledge and a love for the natural world, then get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through the treasures that await at The Field Museum. With its vast collection of artifacts and specimens, this renowned institution offers an opportunity to delve into the wonders of history, culture, and science. From ancient civilizations to the mysteries of evolution, The Field Museum promises an unforgettable journey that will ignite your curiosity and leave you in awe of the world we inhabit. So grab your imagination and prepare to be amazed as we uncover the secrets held within the walls of this captivating museum.
History of The Field Museum
Founding of The Field Museum
The Field Museum of Natural History, located in Chicago, Illinois, is one of the largest and most prestigious natural history museums in the world. It was founded in 1893 with the purpose of preserving and displaying the biological and anthropological collections of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Named after its first major benefactor, Marshall Field, the museum has since become a renowned institution known for its extensive collections, groundbreaking research, and educational programs.
Evolution of The Field Museum
Over the years, The Field Museum has evolved and expanded in both its size and scope. The original building, which opened to the public in 1921, was designed in a classical Greek Revival style by the architectural firm of Graham, Anderson, Probst & White. Since then, several additions have been made to accommodate the growing collections and enhance visitor experiences. Notably, in 2003, the museum unveiled an innovative underground facility called the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice DNA Discovery Center, further demonstrating its commitment to scientific research and education.
Important Collections in The Field Museum
The Field Museum is home to a vast array of important collections that span various disciplines of natural history. The Anthropology Collection consists of artifacts and specimens that document human cultural diversity across time and geography. The Geology Collection houses millions of rocks, minerals, and fossils, providing valuable insights into the history of our planet. The Zoology Collection boasts an extensive array of preserved animals, including the renowned Carl Akeley Hall of African Mammals. These collections serve as invaluable resources for scientists, researchers, and educators alike, enabling them to further our understanding of the natural world.
Exhibits at The Field Museum
Sue the T. rex
One of the most beloved and iconic exhibits at The Field Museum is Sue the T. rex. Named after its discoverer, Sue Hendrickson, this impressive fossil is the largest, most complete, and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever found. Visitors can marvel at the towering skeleton, experience the overwhelming size and power of this ancient predator, and learn about the fascinating world of dinosaurs.
Ancient Egypt
The Field Museum offers a captivating journey back in time to Ancient Egypt. The exhibit features the Tomb of Unis-Ankh, a reconstructed ancient burial chamber, complete with intricate hieroglyphs and artifacts. Visitors can explore the Egyptian galleries, which display a wide range of mummies, tomb offerings, and everyday objects, providing a glimpse into the rich and mysterious civilization that thrived along the Nile thousands of years ago.
Evolving Planet
Evolving Planet takes visitors on a captivating journey through the history of life on Earth. From the origins of life to the present day, this exhibit showcases the amazing diversity and interconnectedness of living organisms. Fossils, interactive displays, and engaging multimedia experiences allow visitors to witness the dramatic changes that have shaped our planet over millions of years. It is a truly awe-inspiring exploration of evolution and the natural world.
Dinosaurs at The Field Museum
Sue the T. rex
Sue the T. rex, undoubtedly the most famous dinosaur at The Field Museum, takes center stage in the dinosaur exhibits. Its towering presence and remarkably well-preserved skeleton provide a unique opportunity for visitors to come face-to-face with one of the largest and most fearsome creatures to have ever walked the Earth. The exhibit provides insights into the life, behavior, and environment of Tyrannosaurus rex, making it a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
Evolving Planet
Evolving Planet, while not solely dedicated to dinosaurs, features a spectacular collection of dinosaur fossils that showcase the incredible diversity of these ancient reptiles. From massive herbivores like Triceratops to agile predators like Velociraptors, visitors can explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs and gain a deeper understanding of the evolutionary processes that shaped them. The interactive displays and immersive environments make for an engaging and educational experience that will captivate both children and adults alike.
Ancient Egypt at The Field Museum
The Tomb of Unis-Ankh
The Field Museum offers a rare opportunity to step inside the life and afterlife of an ancient Egyptian through the Tomb of Unis-Ankh. This reconstructed burial chamber brings to life the rituals and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians, with its vivid hieroglyphs, intricate carvings, and authentic artifacts. Visitors can explore the tomb and gain a deeper understanding of the religious practices, funerary customs, and daily life of the people who lived along the banks of the Nile thousands of years ago.
The Egyptian galleries
The Egyptian galleries at The Field Museum offer a comprehensive overview of the ancient Egyptian civilization. From statues of pharaohs and gods to intricately decorated jewelry and funerary masks, the exhibits display a wide range of objects that provide insights into the rich cultural, artistic, and religious traditions of this fascinating civilization. Visitors can also learn about the process of mummification and witness the stunning preserved remains of human and animal mummies.
Living and Preserved Animals at The Field Museum
Animal Hall
The Animal Hall at The Field Museum is a haven for nature lovers and enthusiasts. With its extensive collection of preserved animals from around the world, visitors can get up close and personal with creatures both familiar and exotic. From the majestic African elephant to the elusive snow leopard, the exhibits showcase the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom while promoting awareness about conservation and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
DNA Discovery Center
The DNA Discovery Center at The Field Museum is a state-of-the-art facility where visitors can learn about the cutting-edge field of DNA research. Through interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and demonstrations, visitors can explore the world of genetics, unravel the mysteries of DNA, and understand its impact on various fields, including medicine, forensics, and conservation. It is a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of DNA and its profound influence on life as we know it.
Grainger Science Hub
The Grainger Science Hub at The Field Museum is a dynamic space where visitors can engage in hands-on experiments, interactive displays, and scientific demonstrations. From exploring the properties of matter to unraveling the mysteries of the natural world, the hub offers a range of activities that promote scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. It is a space where visitors of all ages can experience the joy of discovery and gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of science.
Hands-On Activities at The Field Museum
Crown Family PlayLab
The Crown Family PlayLab at The Field Museum is a dedicated space for young children to explore and learn through play. Designed specifically for children ages two to six, the play lab offers a range of interactive activities, games, and exhibits that encourage imaginative play, sensory exploration, and cognitive development. From building structures to digging for fossils, children can engage in hands-on learning experiences that foster creativity, curiosity, and a love for the natural world.
The Idea Factory
The Idea Factory at The Field Museum is a hub of creativity and innovation. Through a series of rotating exhibits and workshops, visitors can participate in hands-on activities that explore various scientific concepts and phenomena. From designing and testing prototypes to solving real-world problems, the Idea Factory provides a space for visitors of all ages to engage in open-ended exploration, collaboration, and critical thinking. It is a place where ideas come to life and curiosity knows no bounds.
Behind-The-Scenes Tours at The Field Museum
Inside Ancient DNA Lab
The Field Museum offers a unique behind-the-scenes tour that takes visitors inside the Ancient DNA Lab. Led by museum scientists and researchers, this tour provides an exclusive glimpse into the world of ancient DNA extraction and analysis. Visitors can learn about the groundbreaking research being conducted at the museum, witness the techniques used to extract DNA from fossils and specimens, and gain a deeper understanding of the role DNA plays in unraveling the mysteries of our past.
Preparator’s Lab
The Preparator’s Lab at The Field Museum is where the magic happens behind the scenes. This tour takes visitors into the workshops where museum professionals meticulously clean, repair, and prepare fossils, artifacts, and specimens for display. From assembling skeletons to creating custom mounts, visitors can witness the intricate and painstaking work that goes into ensuring each exhibit is scientifically accurate and visually stunning. It is a fascinating look into the craftsmanship and expertise that brings the museum’s collections to life.
Upcoming Events at The Field Museum
Science Fest
Science Fest at The Field Museum is an annual event that celebrates the wonders of science through a series of interactive exhibits, workshops, demonstrations, and presentations. Visitors can engage in hands-on activities, meet scientists and researchers, and learn about the latest discoveries and innovations in various fields of science. From exploring the mysteries of the deep sea to unraveling the secrets of space, Science Fest offers a diverse range of experiences that ignite curiosity, inspire lifelong learning, and foster a passion for STEM.
Adult Nights
Adult Nights at The Field Museum offer a unique opportunity for adults to explore the museum after hours, without the crowd of families and children. These evening events feature special exhibits, themed activities, live performances, and access to behind-the-scenes areas not typically open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a drink at the museum’s bars, engage in thought-provoking discussions with scientists, and immerse themselves in the captivating world of natural history in a more relaxed and adult-oriented atmosphere.
Members-Only Events
Members of The Field Museum enjoy exclusive access to a range of special events throughout the year. From behind-the-scenes tours and curator talks to member appreciation days and exhibit previews, these events offer a unique opportunity to engage with the museum’s collections, experts, and fellow members. Membership not only provides unlimited access to the museum but also serves as a gateway to a vibrant community of individuals passionate about science, culture, and the preservation of our natural heritage.
Dining and Shopping at The Field Museum
The Field Bistro
The Field Bistro at The Field Museum offers a delightful dining experience in a scenic environment. With its panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the museum campus, visitors can savor a wide range of delicious and seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. From gourmet sandwiches and salads to artisan pizzas and desserts, the bistro provides a refreshing break during a visit to the museum, allowing visitors to recharge and refuel while enjoying the stunning surroundings.
The Explorer Store
The Explorer Store at The Field Museum is a treasure trove of unique and educational gifts, souvenirs, and books. From plush toys and dinosaur replicas to science kits and nature-inspired jewelry, visitors can find the perfect memento to commemorate their visit or inspire further exploration and discovery. The store also offers a selection of books related to natural history, anthropology, and science, providing an opportunity to delve deeper into the topics explored at the museum. It is a haven for curious minds and a source of inspiration for lifelong learners of all ages.
Support and Membership at The Field Museum
Donate to The Field Museum
The Field Museum relies on the support of generous individuals, corporations, and foundations to fulfill its mission of promoting the understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Donations play a vital role in funding scientific research, educational programs, and the preservation of the museum’s collections. By making a donation, supporters can contribute to the ongoing legacy of The Field Museum and help ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to explore the wonders of our planet and the diverse cultures that call it home.
Become a member
Becoming a member of The Field Museum not only grants unlimited access to all the exhibits and special events but also provides an array of exclusive benefits. Members receive free admission, discounts at the museum store and restaurants, access to members-only events, and more. By becoming a member, individuals can become an integral part of the museum community, support important scientific research and educational initiatives, and enjoy a range of privileges that enhance their museum experience. It is a rewarding way to engage with The Field Museum and contribute to its ongoing success.