Science & technology museums in Illinois

The Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, located in Chicago, Illinois, is recognized as one of the city's major attractions. This institution, which was built in 1930 with the support of businessman Max Adler, is one of the oldest planetariums in North America. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the wonders of the universe and learn about the history and current research of space and planetary systems.

The Museum of Science and Industry is a renowned science center situated in Jackson Park, just a bit south of downtown Chicago. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum offers a unique blend of science and industry exhibits, making it a fascinating destination for individuals of all ages.

The International Museum of Surgical Science is situated in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. The museum is managed by The International College of Surgeons, a prestigious organization dedicated to the advancement of surgical standards and patient care worldwide. This location offers a unique blend of history, science, and art, making it an interesting destination for a wide range of visitors.

The Michigan Avenue Bridge, a bascule bridge over the Chicago River, is a significant landmark in Downtown Chicago. It serves as a border between the community sectors of the Loop and Near North Side. The bridge is crossed by Michigan Avenue, one of the city's major thoroughfares, and is maintained by the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT).

The Illinois Railway Museum, located in Union, Illinois, is recognized as the largest railroad museum in the United States. It is situated 55 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, making it a convenient destination for those visiting the Chicago metropolitan area. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of railroads in the country.

The Grosse Point Lighthouse is a significant landmark located in Evanston, on the shores of Lake Michigan, in the state of Illinois, USA. This historic lighthouse has been a beacon of safety for mariners since its establishment in the late 19th century. It is a place of interest for tourists who appreciate maritime history and architecture.

Fabyan Villa, located in Geneva, Illinois, served as the residence of George and Nelle Fabyan from approximately 1908 to 1939. The house is particularly noteworthy due to its extensive remodelling in 1907 by the renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. This remodelling transformed the mid-1800s farmhouse into a unique Prairie-style country house, complete with a south wing, three verandas, and large eaves.

The Design Museum of Chicago, also known as DMoC, was established in 2012 by Tanner Woodford. Initially, it functioned as a pop-up museum, hosting exhibitions in various venues across Chicago. This unique approach allowed the museum to reach a wide audience and showcase a diverse range of design works.

The National Museum of the American Sailor, previously known as the Great Lakes Naval Museum, is one of the ten Navy Museums managed by the Naval History & Heritage Command. This museum is an official Department of the Navy Museum, focusing on the history of the United States Navy, particularly the Navy's enlisted Sailor.

The Fox River Trolley Museum, located in South Elgin, Illinois, is a railroad museum that was incorporated in 1961 and opened to the public in 1966. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of railroads and trolleys, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and train lovers alike.

Located in an old firehouse, pretty interesting displays are inside. Don't forget to check out the Route 66 shield in the back of building!

The Amboy station, located in Amboy, Lee County, Illinois, was originally built in 1876. It served dual purposes as the headquarters for the Illinois Central Railroad and as a public train station for the city of Amboy. The building's historical significance and architectural design make it an interesting site for tourists interested in history and architecture.

The Rochelle Railroad Park is a city park situated in Rochelle, Illinois. It is a safe haven for railfans, providing them with the opportunity to view and photograph trains. The park is designed to cater to the interests of train enthusiasts, offering a unique experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the world of railroads.

The National Museum of Ship Models and Sea History is a private, non-profit institution situated in Sadorus, Illinois. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing ship models from various periods and regions, providing a unique insight into maritime history and craftsmanship.

The Pontiac City Hall and Fire Station is a significant historical site located at 110 W. Howard St. in Pontiac, Illinois. This building, which was constructed in 1900, served dual roles as both the city hall and fire station for Pontiac. It is an architectural marvel designed by John H. Barnes in the Romanesque Revival style. The building, although constructed as a single entity, has separate interiors for the city hall and fire station, connected by a bell tower. It served as the hub for Pontiac's city government and fire protection services until 1986.

The National Museum of the American Sailor houses over 40,000 artifacts and records, providing an invaluable record of the U.S. Navy. The collection includes naval uniforms and accessories from the early 1900s to the present, and the country's largest archive of boot camp-related photographs, narrating the story of the American Sailor in the United States Navy.

The Mendota station, located at 783 Main Street, Mendota, Illinois, serves as an Amtrak intercity train station. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient starting point for your visit to the Union Depot Railroad Museum.

The John Deere Pavilion, located in Moline, Illinois, is both an attraction and a museum. It was opened in 1997 as part of an urban renewal project. This location offers a unique insight into the history and development of John Deere, a renowned agricultural machinery company.

The Batavia Depot Museum, located in Batavia, Illinois, holds a significant place in the town's history as it was once the primary train station. It was the first of many depots built by the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad, a major railroad company established in the 1850s. This historical significance adds a layer of depth to the museum's appeal, offering visitors a glimpse into the town's past and its connection to the broader railroad network in the region.

The Volo Museum, originally known as the Volo Auto Museum, was established in 1960 by the Grams family. It is located in the Chicago suburb of Volo, Illinois, and serves as both an automobile museum and a collector car dealer. This unique combination allows visitors to not only appreciate the beauty and history of the vehicles on display but also the opportunity to purchase a piece of automotive history.

They are keeping the history of aviation alive. Check out the planes and helicopter!

The Peoria Riverfront Museum is a privately owned institution that showcases a diverse range of exhibits, from art and science to history and achievement. It is conveniently located on the riverfront in downtown Peoria, Illinois. The building that houses the museum is owned by the County of Peoria, adding a layer of local significance to the establishment.

The John Deere House and Shop, located in the village of Grand Detour, Illinois, is a significant site in the history of American agriculture. It was here that John Deere invented the first steel plow in 1837, a development that revolutionized farming practices. Visitors to the site can explore Deere's house, a replica of his original blacksmith shop, and an archaeological exhibit showing the excavation site of his original blacksmith shop.

Educational programs for kids from the age of 12 months up to 13 years. 3 floors of inspiring hands-on exhibits!

The Monticello Railway Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of railroads. It is located in Monticello, Illinois, approximately 18 miles west of Champaign. The museum houses a vast collection of railroad equipment and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and significance of railroads in the United States.

The Galesburg Railroad Museum is situated at 211 South Seminary Street, Galesburg, IL 61401. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient spot for tourists to visit and explore the rich history of railroads.

The Villa Avenue Train Station, which is one of two former Chicago Aurora and Elgin Railroad (CA&E) stations in Villa Park, Illinois, now serves as the home of the Villa Park Historical Society Museum. This historic building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, is a testament to the rich history of the area. It was built between August and November 1929, replacing two smaller waiting rooms on the east side of Villa Park. The station was a hub of activity, serving passengers and functioning as an office for the Western United Gas and Electric Company.

The Chicago Athenaeum is a private museum dedicated to the art of design in all its forms: architecture, industrial and product design, graphics, landscape architecture, and urban planning. Located in Galena, Illinois, the museum is housed in a former brewery building, adding a touch of historical charm to its modern focus. It was founded in 1988 by Christian K. Narkiewicz-Laine in Chicago and moved to its current location in 2004.

The Chicago Maritime Museum is a unique institution that focuses on the study and commemoration of Chicago's maritime traditions. It provides a deep dive into the city's rich maritime history, offering visitors a chance to learn about the significant role that Lake Michigan and the Chicago River played in the city's development.

The Cernan Earth and Space Center is a public planetarium that is situated on the campus of Triton College in the suburb of River Grove, Chicago. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the wonders of the universe in a comfortable and educational setting.

Authentic displays in the heart of U.S. agricultural production center. Antique tractors and engines for dads and sons to explore.

Listen to the story of the Mississippi River and explore how it affects your life.

The Joliet Area Historical Museum, situated in Joliet, Illinois, is a significant institution that documents the rich history of Joliet and the surrounding Will County. The museum provides a comprehensive insight into the area's past, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and curious tourists alike.

The Wheels O' Time Museum is located in Dunlap, Illinois, United States. It is a unique museum that showcases a variety of exhibits, each with its own historical significance.

Creative learning about one of the most important areas of human life. Educate your kids in a fun way!