The Field Museum was founded to house the biological and anthropological collections assembled for the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. The museum name changed in 1905 to honor its major benefactor, Marshall Field, and moved to the lakefront in 1921. The museum actively engages in current research, supported by a notable library holding more than 250,000 volumes.

Chicago’s Field Museum has something for everyone. For a start, there’s famous Sue*,SUE.jpg the world’s largest, most complete and best-preserved T Rex. There are dozens of fascinating exhibits including Inside Ancient Egypt, the hall of gems, Our Evolving Planet, The Ancient Americas, and the special exhibit Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Mermaids, and Unicorns.

On Saturday, May 17th there is a free lecture on E Coli and the Science of Life and a book signing by Dr. Carl Zimmer. Zimmer explores how this microbe, known to most of us for its deadly outbreaks, is actually leading scientists to a new understanding of what it means to be alive. Discover the pivotal role E. coli has played in the history of biology and explore how it continues to lead the way in the search for life-saving drugs, clean fuel, and a deeper understanding of our own genetic makeup and the history of life.

In case you get hungry during your visit, there is a McDonalds (burgers, fries etc…) and Corner Bakery (salads and sandwiches) in the Museum.

Field Museum of Natural History
Address: Roosevelt Road at Lake Shore Drive (see directions in a previous post)
Hours: 9:00am - 5:00 pm daily, last admission at 4:00pm
Admission: $14, general admission (adult); $22, with Mythic Creatures ticket

* You can also get a glimpse of a full-size Sue replica in O’Hare Airport as you arrive!

- Andrea Garren & Jim Shedlock

(Image from the Field Museum website)