MUSEUM MUST-DO’S NATURE/SCIENCE/HISTORY To see natural history wonders such as SUE the T. rex , marine life experiences like the Beluga Encounter, and deep space exploration, take students to three world-class museums — the Field Museum , Shedd Aquarium (currently undergoing a major renovation), and the Adler Planetarium — all on the lakefront Museum Campus. Spend a day of discovery in Hyde Park at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry . With 800 exhibits, students will have fun while learning through interactive science, technology, engineering, and math lessons. Explore history, culture, and traditions within the Black diaspora at The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center , a Smithsonian affiliate. Exhibit themes range from civil rights to storytellers, diversity, art, and more. Take students to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum to see animal habitats, nature-inspired artwork, and walking trails. Stroll among 1,000 butterflies inside the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven and get tips about ways to save the environment in the Sustainability Center. Student groups will be excited to see what $1 million looks like at the Chicago Fed Money Museum , located within the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Learn about interest rates and counterfeit currency. Students can take home a bag of shredded money as a free souvenir. The Medieval Torture Museum , an intense attraction recommended for older students, revisits the Middle Ages via recreations of torture chambers, with chilling collections of over 100 implements and devices. For a visual and sensory experience, discover over 80 exhibits, puzzles, and immersive rooms at the Museum of Illusions Chicago . It’s a fun way to learn about perception, tricks of the mind, and optical phenomena. Play is encouraged at the Sloomoo Institute , where everyone can participate in hands-on, sensory activities. Students can make their own slime from a selection of colors, textures, and scents that include various fruits, flowers, and desserts. Delve into the history of surgery via art, artifacts, programs, and instruments in fascinating galleries at the International Museum of Surgical Science , a division of the International College of Surgeons. Eat unlimited frozen treats at the Museum of Ice Cream . The dessert-themed museum features whimsical immersive installations, Scan the QR code for even more student and youth activities, great dining ideas, a list of local performance venues, and to explore our interactive Chicago hotel map. including a ride on the pink Sprink-L train (a tip of the hat to Chicago’s ‘L’ train) and a dip in a pool filled with millions of colorful sprinkles. ART/CULTURE Book a private tour of the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago . See one of the world’s largest collections of French Impressionist paintings, provocative modern art, and other masterpieces. Or explore on your own using the museum’s free mobile app. Study the works of today's top artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art . The collection includes more than 2,000 thought-provoking pieces. Private tours are offered for student groups. In Pilsen, visit the National Museum of Mexican Art , which preserves a 22,000-piece art collection. Cultural programs include dance, music, theatre, and author sessions. At The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture — the only U.S. museum dedicated to the island’s art and culture — explore exhibits during docent-led tours. Your group can also attend events and programs celebrating Puerto Rican heritage and history. Get a glimpse of Swedish history and traditions at the Swedish American Museum in Andersonville. Check out the art gallery, children’s museum, genealogy center, and special exhibits. Interactive exhibits at the American Writers Museum bring literature to life. Schedule a private tour showcasing famous authors and their works. Participate in activities in the Children’s Gallery. Ignite students’ curiosity by stepping into the WNDR Museum ‘s fantasy world. Over 20 multisensory art and technology installations include light floors, optical illusions, infinity rooms, and interactive artwork. Vibrant hues accentuate joyful experiences in over 14 installations at the Color Factory Chicago , located on the lower level of Willis Tower. Don’t miss exploring the confetti room and frolicking in a ball pit. TOP PARADES CHICAGO ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE – MARCH Witness the city’s world-famous St. Patrick’s Day tradition as the Chicago River is dyed emerald green. Afterward, celebrate the Irish spirit during a festive parade in the Loop. MEMORIAL DAY PARADE – MAY Help honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice defending the United States. Attend a wreath-laying ceremony in Daley Plaza followed by a parade along State Street. BUD BILLIKEN PARADE – AUGUST Bands, floats, and student performers are all part of the fun during the largest African American parade in the U.S. Watch the procession make its way along Martin Luther King Drive. THE MAGNIFICENT MILE LIGHTS FESTIVAL – NOVEMBER A million lights sparkle during this dazzling nighttime holiday parade on North Michigan Avenue. Wave to Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Santa Claus, and cheerful floats as they glide by. CHICAGO THANKSGIVING PARADE – NOVEMBER On the morning of Thanksgiving Day, usher in the holiday season by watching balloon characters, floats, celebrities, and marching bands parade along State Street. 15
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