Chicago boasts not only one of the world’s top-ranked museums but also a collection of exceptionally unique museums in Chicago. Are you aware that the city is home to some truly extraordinary and often underestimated museums? Whether you’re planning a visit to Chicago or seeking entertaining activities, explore this compilation of the city’s weird museums in Chicago.
Some of the Most Unique Museums in Chicago
Find some interesting and weird museums in Chicago that will keep you entertained:
Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank
Have you ever found yourself engrossed in a game show, contemplating the contents of a mysterious suitcase and wondering, “Could that be a million dollars?” Satisfy your curiosity by discovering the visual representation of a million dollars at the Money Museum within the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of real historical currency and artifacts, engaging with interactive exhibits, games, and a myriad of intriguing displays.
This extraordinary museum not only offers a fascinating experience but also happens to be free of charge, making it an ideal adventure for individuals of all ages, especially children. Uncover the secrets of wealth and history in a captivating journey through the Money Museum.
Chicago Children’s Museum
For an unparalleled children’s museum experience, explore the wonders of the Chicago Children’s Museum. Purposefully crafted for experimentation, creativity, and comprehensive learning, this unique institution located at Navy Pier offers an ideal environment for children to engage in both play and educational exploration. Dive into captivating exhibits such as the Tinkering Lab, an Art Studio, and the delightful Sound Playground.
Admission to this enriching museum is complimentary for members, while for adults and children, it’s priced at $21.00. Fear not, as the museum offers various avenues for cost-effective enjoyment. Navigate to ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org to secure your tickets and discover innovative ways to make your visit to this museum both memorable and budget-friendly.
Image Source: Chicago Children’s Museum – Cloud Buster
Museum of Contemporary Photography
Discover the vibrant world of visual storytelling at the Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP), nestled within Columbia College Chicago. It’s one of the small museums in Chicago that serves as a global nexus for artists and diverse communities alike. Unveiling groundbreaking exhibitions and innovative programming, the MoCP actively stimulates conversations surrounding the artistic, cultural, and political dimensions of photography in our contemporary world.
Check out the unique offerings of this Chicago gem, where admission to the museum comes at no cost. Explore the dynamic realm of visual arts and witness how photography becomes a powerful medium in shaping our perceptions of the world. The Museum of Contemporary Photography invites you to engage with its thought-provoking displays, fostering a deeper understanding of the multifaceted roles that photography plays in our lives today.
Busy Beaver Button Museum
The Busy Beaver Button Museum stands as a captivating testament to the artistry of pin design. Housing an impressive array of 30,000 pins, each unique in shape and size, this remarkable collection spans the years from 1896, coinciding with the patent of the pinback, to the present day.
Embrace the opportunity to explore this distinctive museum, where the evolution of pinback buttons unfolds across decades of history. Admission to the museum is not only free but also extends a warm welcome to the public, ensuring accessibility for all. Alternatively, enthusiasts can schedule an appointment to delve deeper into the fascinating world of button artistry.
Image Source: THE BUSY BEAVER BUTTON MUSEUM
Chicago Sports Museum
Discover the ultimate haven for sports enthusiasts at the Chicago Sports Museum—an unparalleled experience and a prime destination for families alike. Delve into the rich legacy of Chicago’s sports teams through an engaging blend of unique artifacts and interactive displays that will captivate your imagination. Challenge your athletic prowess in the exhilarating Measure Up exhibit, marvel at the extensive collection of Chicago Cubs World Series memorabilia in the Fan Zone, and discover even more thrilling exhibits at the Chicago Sports Museum.
Embark on a journey through the vibrant history of Chicago’s sports scene, where every display is a testament to the city’s athletic prowess. Tickets to this extraordinary museum are priced at $10 for general admission for adults, $6 for individuals aged 65 and above, as well as children between the ages of 4 and 11. Little ones under the age of 3 can enjoy free admission, making it an inclusive experience for families of all sizes.
Image Source: Chicago Sports Museum Exhibits
American Writers Museum
Step into the extraordinary realm of literary exploration at the groundbreaking American Writers Museum, a trailblazer in its commitment to actively involving the public in the appreciation of American writers. This unique institution features a captivating blend of rotating and permanent exhibitions that intricately highlight the rich tapestry of literature, spanning the past, present, and even the future.
Tickets to this literary haven are priced at $14 for adults, ensuring an enriching experience for literature enthusiasts. Seniors and students can partake in this literary journey for $9, while children aged 12 and under are granted free admission.
Art on theMart
Experience the world of art beyond the confines of traditional museum settings with Art on theMart. This unconventional museum breaks free from the norm, offering a unique and free public art experience. Set against the iconic Merchandise Mart facade along the Chicago River, Art on theMart boasts the title of the world’s largest permanent digital art projection in a public space.
Situated in the heart of downtown, this permanent public art installation transforms the Merchandise Mart into a colossal canvas for digital creativity. The projections, which run year-round, illuminate the night sky for two hours each night. During the warmer months, from May to September, the spectacle expands with extended nightly viewing opportunities seven days a week.
Visit Some Weird but Magnificent Museums in Chicago Today!
From the mesmerizing world of money and photography to the playful realms of children’s exploration and the dynamic history of sports, there’s an adventure waiting at every corner. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of literature and the innovative sphere of digital art. Don’t miss out on these hidden gems that promise a unique and enriching experience for all ages. Plan your visit now and discover the wonders that lie within Chicago’s lesser-known yet incredibly fascinating museums!