Chicago: Field Museum of Natural History Ticket or VIP Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Chicago and want to soak in some of the city’s most notable attractions, the Field Museum of Natural History often tops the list. While we haven’t personally wandered through its halls (yet), a close look at what it offers reveals a well-rounded, engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re into towering dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, or dazzling gemstones, this museum packs plenty of highlights.

What we particularly like about this experience is the flexibility of visit options—from general admission to special VIP tours—and the fact that it offers a chance to see some of the most famous exhibits, like Sue, the largest T. rex ever discovered, without the usual crowds. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that some of the ticketed exhibits, like the 3-D movie, require arriving early or additional planning, especially if you’re keen on catching them. This tour suits history buffs, dinosaur lovers, families, and anyone curious to explore the natural world at their own pace.

Key Points

• Varied ticket options allow you to tailor your experience based on your interests, whether just general access or exclusive VIP tours.
• Famous exhibits like Sue the T. rex and Maximo, the Titanosaur, are standout features that draw visitors from around the world.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, especially during VIP tours, making complex topics accessible and enjoyable.
• Accessibility and amenities are well thought out, with wheelchair access and onsite dining options.
• Good value for the price, especially considering the variety of exhibits and the possibility of skipping long lines.
• Crowd levels vary; early access options help beat the busy hours, giving a more relaxed exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What the Field Museum Offers

An Overview of the Museum’s Highlights

The Field Museum is home to over 35 renowned exhibitions, ensuring there’s something to pique everyone’s curiosity. From dinosaurs to ancient Egypt, the museum provides a broad spectrum of natural history displays that are both educational and visually stunning.

One of the biggest draws is Sue, the legendary T. rex, celebrated as the most complete specimen ever found. Visitors can stand face-to-face with her and learn about her story—something many reviews highlight as a must-see. In addition, the Titanosaur named Maximo offers a thrilling encounter with the largest dinosaur to ever walk the Earth, a real crowd-pleaser.

Tailoring Your Visit: Ticket Options and What They Mean

The standard general admission ticket grants access to all general exhibitions. It’s a good choice if you’re on a budget or want the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Many visitors find that even without upgrades, they can comfortably spend several hours wandering through exhibits like the Hall of Gems or the Ice Age mammals.

If you’re keen to get a head start and avoid the crowds, the Early Access VIP Tour might be worth considering. This exclusive one-hour tour with a museum docent focuses on the dinosaurs, giving you a chance to take pictures with Sue or Maximo before the museum opens to the public. Having experienced it, some reviews mention that this is a fantastic way to see the highlights without feeling rushed or crowded. Plus, with a maximum group size of 20, it’s a more intimate experience.

For those who want to see everything, including special exhibits, the All-Access Pass unlocks three ticketed exhibitions and the 3-D movie, giving a comprehensive deep dive into the museum’s most popular displays. However, a heads up from reviews is that the 3-D movie may require arriving early to reserve your spot, as availability can vary.

What’s Inside: From Dinosaurs to Egyptian Tombs

The Dinosaur Hall is spectacular, with iconic specimens like Sue and Maximo. Many reviews rave about the size and realism of these exhibits, describing them as “stunning” and “impressive.” During the VIP tour, guides often share fascinating stories and insights that add depth to the experience.

Beyond dinosaurs, the museum has Egyptian artifacts including a full-sized mastaba tomb complex, which is quite rare outside Egypt. Visitors find this exhibit particularly intriguing, especially as it offers a glimpse into ancient burial practices.

The Hall of Jades features an extensive collection of Chinese jade, appreciated for both its artistry and cultural significance. The Hall of Gems dazzles with sparkling stones and is often a highlight for those interested in geology.

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Exhibits for Every Interest

The Ice Age exhibit transports you into a prehistoric world, showcasing mammoths, giant sloths, and more. Many visitors note that the exhibits are well-curated, with clear signage that makes complex scientific concepts accessible to all ages.

The Underground Adventure exhibit is a hit with families and kids, providing a fun and educational look at subterranean life. Several reviews mention that this part of the museum is both engaging and informative, perfect for younger visitors or the young at heart.

Practical Details and Tips for Visiting

• Duration: Expect to spend anywhere from a couple of hours to an entire day, depending on your level of interest and whether you upgrade to special exhibits.
• Price: With tickets starting at just $29, the basic admission offers good value, especially since it covers access to all general exhibits. The all-access upgrades are more costly but unlock a full range of activities and exhibitions.
• Crowds and Lines: During peak times, lines can be long, especially for popular exhibits like Sue. The VIP early access option is a great way to skip the crowds and get a more relaxed tour.
• Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with parking available on a first-come, first-served basis at the East Museum Lot.
• Food: There’s an onsite restaurant and café if you need a break or lunch—although some reviews mention that the food isn’t a highlight, it’s convenient.

What Visitors Are Saying

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 662 reviews. Many are particularly impressed with the knowledgeable guides and the stunning exhibits, especially the dinosaurs. One visitor from New Zealand called it an “amazing museum,” and others from the U.S. shared that they’d return multiple times.

A few reviewers did comment on the crowds and the expense of upgrades, but overall, the consensus is that the museum offers great value for its variety and quality. Several families and solo travelers appreciated the ease of entry and the friendly staff.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history and science enthusiasts who want a comprehensive look at natural history without breaking the bank. The VIP tour is perfect if you’re a bit of a dinosaur fanatic or simply want to beat the crowds and take great photos with Sue. Families will enjoy the interactive exhibits like the underground adventure and the Egyptian tomb, making it a fun and educational outing.

While it’s not specifically geared toward children, the exhibits are accessible and engaging enough to delight younger visitors. If you’re visiting Chicago and looking for a full day of discovery—whether solo, as a couple, or with family—the Field Museum provides a well-rounded, memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the general admission ticket enough for a full day?
Most visitors find that general admission is sufficient to enjoy the main exhibits comfortably, but if you want to see all special exhibitions or watch the 3-D movie, consider the all-access pass.

Can I skip the lines with this ticket?
Yes, the tickets include skip-the-ticket-line entry, which saves you time, especially during busy periods.

What does the VIP early access tour include?
It offers a 1-hour guided tour of the dinosaurs before the museum opens, allowing you to take photos with Sue or Maximo without crowds, plus access to the rest of the museum with an all-access ticket.

Are there options to add extra exhibits or experiences?
Yes, selecting the all-access pass or discovery pass allows entry to all three ticketed exhibitions and the 3-D movie, if available.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Absolutely, the museum is wheelchair accessible, and parking accommodations are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

How long should I plan to spend there?
Depending on your level of interest, plan for at least 2-4 hours. If you’re an enthusiast or want to see everything, a full day might be more suitable.

What about food options onsite?
There is an onsite restaurant and café, although some visitors find the food to be just okay, so consider bringing snacks if you prefer.

Are the exhibits engaging for kids?
Yes, many reviews mention that children enjoy the dinosaur displays, Egyptian tombs, and interactive exhibits like the underground adventure.

What’s the best time to visit?
To avoid crowds, consider the early access VIP tour or visiting during off-peak hours. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends or holidays.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago offers a blend of iconic exhibits, educational insights, and flexible options to customize your experience. With a solid rating of 4.7 from hundreds of reviews, it’s clear this museum strikes a good balance between grandeur and accessibility.

If you’re a dinosaur devotee, the VIP early access tour will give you a rare chance to beat the crowds and get up close to Sue and Maximo. For those interested in broadening their understanding of the natural world, general admission coupled with the all-access upgrade makes for a comprehensive day of exploration.

Even with some considerations about crowds and extra costs for special exhibits, most visitors agree that the value for money is high, thanks to the diversity and quality of the displays. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience can be a highlight of your Chicago trip, especially if you’re passionate about science, history, or just love a good museum day.

The Field Museum is a worthwhile visit that combines awe-inspiring specimens with educational value—an experience that can appeal to a wide range of interests and ages. Just plan ahead to make the most of your time, and you’re in for a memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: