Hidden gems - Museums in Chicago, United States not to miss (Updated February, 2024)

Hidden gems: Museums in Chicago

Discover the city's hidden treasures—remarkable spots that are relatively undiscovered but offer exceptional experiences. Our selection criteria? A rating of 4.5 or higher with fewer than 150 reviews. Explore these lesser-known yet outstanding places that promise a delightful visit in Chicago. This list contains 35 places from Museum category.

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Within Chicago

Graveface Chicago

Museum

👍👍 Really cool spot! Definitely recommend and I definitely want to visit again! The folks there are super chill, and the museum is very well put together!

5.00 (50 reviews)

New World Cartographic Antique Map & Print Gallery

Map store

5.00 (27 reviews)

Volume Gallery

Art museum

5.00 (11 reviews)

The Legacy Walk

Museum

Half-mile stretch of N. Halsted with 20 rainbow pylons & plaques commemorating noted LGBTQ+ figures.

5.00 (9 reviews)

The Insect Asylum

Museum of zoology

4.90 (140 reviews)

Bob Newhart Statue

Sculpture

👍👍 If you are a Bob Newhart fan this is a must see and do in Chicago. Just layback and talk things over with him. I guarantee it will make you feel better…..

4.90 (37 reviews)

Museum Of Science Industry: Coal Mine

Museum

👍👍 Incredible place to visit in Chicago, everything seemed very good to me 👍

4.90 (16 reviews)

Climate Action Museum

Museum

👍👍 A must–see for anyone who lives in Chicago or is in town visiting!! My whole view of the climate crisis is turned upside down. It was so refreshing to experience an optimism-centered exhibit that helped me realize the agency I have in my life, and empowered me to make tangible, effective changes to...

4.90 (13 reviews)

Reliance Building

Non-profit organization

👍👍 One of Chicago's iconic "Chicago School" skyscrapers. An easy to admire classic structure. Designed by Burnham & Root and Charles Atwood. The lower portion (1st floor) designed by John W. Root in 1890. The 14 floors above that done by Charles Atwood in 1894. A truly handsome building. The windows ar...

4.90 (12 reviews)

South Side Community Art Center

Art center

4.80 (136 reviews)

Norwood Park Historical Society

Non-profit organization

😠 My cousin had her wedding here and let me tell u exactly what the owner of this place did. She originally agreed to let my cousin set up everything with the help of people the night before. But when we were there she said "there was too many poeple" and we could not set up anymore. Sending us home....

4.80 (44 reviews)

Museum of Science and Industry Sign

Tourist attraction

👍👍 This museum is amazing! So many things to experience, even without any add ons! Highly recommend looking at ALL of the U-505 exhibits before you take your tour of it (if you so choose). Very informative. We also did the Coal Mining tour and the guide was amazing. Never tired of anyone's questions or...

4.80 (37 reviews)

National Cambodian Heritage Museum

Museum

👍👍 Very proud to serve this community and a museum that is currently the only one outside of Cambodia that is focused on the Cambodian genocide. It is a beautiful space for our survivors for healing, ans many of our art and music program is held here

4.80 (31 reviews)

Fire Museum of Greater Chicago

Museum

👍👍 This place is just so cool for adults and kids. Purely open on donations!

4.80 (22 reviews)

African American Firefighters Museum

Museum

👍👍 Fire Fighter dreaming.... City of Chicago, open this place up already! Opportunity awaits!

4.80 (5 reviews)

Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum

Museum

4.80 (5 reviews)

Elks National Memorial and Headquarters

Fraternal organization

😠 I quit the elks after a month because they doubled down on supporting racism. I joined the elks last month because my family had good experiences with them. At first it seemed promising, I enjoy helping make a better community for the next generation. The Elks have grants for students and do some g...

4.70 (146 reviews)

Lillstreet Art Center

Art center

4.70 (136 reviews)

Chicago Maritime Museum

Local history museum

👍👍 Incredible museum in a stunning building! The Chicago Maritime Museum is a fantastic history museum and the staff was delightful. I learned so much about the history of the city and the Great Lakes. 10/10 recommend the museum and checking out the entire building - especially the city views on the 5t...

4.70 (73 reviews)

The Haitian American Museum of Chicago

Museum

👍👍 What a warm, lovely, educational museum. Definitely stop by here for Haitian art, history, artifacts, and a revolving showcase. Had a terrific time and the people there are so wonderful and full of stories. It’s a must.

4.70 (49 reviews)

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Hidden gems: Museums in Chicago, United States