All geology museums to visit in Illinois

Discover the Earth's secrets at 10 geology museums in Illinois. These museums feature exhibits on rocks, minerals, fossils, and the geological processes that shape our planet.

Are you fascinated by the Earth's natural history? These are the geology museums you should visit in Illinois:

  1. Field Museum1

    Field Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Field Museum of Natural History, also known as FMNH, is a renowned natural history museum located in Chicago. It is recognized as one of the most frequently visited cultural institutions in the United States, attracting a large number of visitors each year due to its extensive collections and exhibits.
  2. Starved Rock State Park2

    Starved Rock State Park

     Oglesby, IL
    Starved Rock State Park, located in the U.S. state of Illinois, is known for its numerous canyons spread across its 2,630 acres. This unique topography offers visitors a chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
  3. Illinois State Museum3

    Illinois State Museum

     Springfield, IL
    The Illinois State Museum is a comprehensive showcase of the life, land, people, and art of the State of Illinois. The museum's focus is on the state's cultural and artistic heritage, providing visitors with a deep understanding of Illinois's history and its people. Exhibits range from natural history to local fossils and mining, household displays from different historic periods, dioramas of Native American life, archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, and a collection of glass paperweights.
  4. Fryxell Geology Museum4

    Fryxell Geology Museum

     Rock Island, IL
    Augustana College, a liberal arts college, is situated in Rock Island, Illinois. The college's location is unique as it is adjacent to the Mississippi River, providing a scenic backdrop for visitors. Founded by Swedish immigrants in 1860, the college has a rich history that adds to its charm.
  5. Quincy Museum5

    Quincy Museum

     Quincy, IL
    The Richard F. Newcomb House, a historic house located at 1601 Maine Street in Quincy, Illinois, is a significant part of the city's history. Built in 1890-91 for Richard F. Newcomb, the founder of the Quincy Paper Company, the house stands as a testament to the city's industrial past. The house's Richardsonian Romanesque design, a result of a collaboration between local architects Harvey Chatten and Ernest M. Wood, adds to its historic charm.
  6. 6

    Elgin Public Museum

     Elgin, IL
    The Elgin Public Museum of Natural History and Anthropology is situated in the beautiful Lords Park in Elgin, Illinois. The museum is nestled within a vast 108-acre park, offering visitors not only a rich educational experience but also a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. The museum's location within the park adds to its charm and appeal, making it a unique destination for tourists.
  7. 7

    Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center

     Cypress, IL
    The Henry N. Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center is a nature center and natural history museum located in the Cache River Wetlands, near Cypress, Illinois. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the natural history of the area and explore the beauty of the wetlands.
  8. 8

    Museum of the Grand Prairie

     Mahomet, IL
    The Museum of the Grand Prairie is a recognized institution, located in the scenic Lake of the Woods park district in Mahomet, Illinois. It holds accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, a testament to its commitment to maintaining high standards in its operations and exhibits. This information is crucial for tourists who value visiting reputable and recognized institutions during their travels.
  9. 9

    National Great Rivers Museum

     Alton, IL
    Listen to the story of the Mississippi River and explore how it affects your life.
  10. 10

    Iroquois County Historical Society Old Courthouse Museum

     Watseka, IL
    The Iroquois County Museum, formerly known as the Old Iroquois County Courthouse, is a historical site located in Watseka, Illinois. This building served as the Iroquois County courthouse from 1866 to 1964, playing a significant role in the county's history. Today, it stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.