Welcome to one of the largest natural history museums in the world, the Field Museum in Chicago. Renowned for its extensive collections and research that spans over 40 million artifacts and specimens, this museum is a treasure trove of ancient relics, including Sue, the most complete and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex ever discovered. The museum not only showcases the past but also leads groundbreaking research in biodiversity and cultural preservation.

Did you know that the Field Museum is home to over 30 permanent exhibitions? These range from ancient Egyptian tombs to a deep dive into the life of insects. One standout exhibit is "Inside Ancient Egypt," where visitors can descend into an actual Egyptian tomb and view real mummies, making it one of the few places in the world where you can experience this outside of Egypt.

The Field Museum was founded in 1893 as part of the World’s Columbian Exposition. Named after its first major benefactor, Marshall Field, a prominent Chicago businessman, it originally aimed to house anthropological and biological collections. Over time, it has evolved into a leading institution for conservation science, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation. This transformation underscores how dynamic cultural institutions adapt and grow over time.

For a truly unique experience at the museum, visit during one of their monthly "Dozin' with the Dinos" nights. Guests are invited to spend a night at the museum sleeping next to exhibits like dinosaurs or mummies! It's an unforgettable way to engage with history and science firsthand.

Prepare to be amazed by the Grainger Hall of Gems which houses one of the largest collections of gems and jewels in North America. This includes a mesmerizing Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass window and rare gems like a moonstone carving depicting Alexander the Great. Another astonishing fact is that Sue's skull weighs about 600 pounds alone – too heavy for her skeleton, so it's displayed separately!

After exploring the museum, take a short walk to other notable attractions like Shedd Aquarium or Adler Planetarium located on Chicago’s Museum Campus. Just north of here lies Grant Park known for hosting major events such as Lollapalooza and offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline.