The Museum Campus: A Cultural Oasis in Chicago
Explore Chicago's Museum Campus, where cultural treasures meet stunning lakefront views, offering a perfect blend of education and leisure for every traveler.
Nestled along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Michigan, The Museum Campus is a must-visit destination for tourists in Chicago. This expansive area is home to some of the city's most illustrious cultural institutions, including the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium, all set against the stunning backdrop of the skyline and waterfront. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to enjoy a day outdoors, The Museum Campus offers a unique blend of education, entertainment, and natural beauty.
A brief summary to The Museum Campus
- 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, Illinois, 60601, US
- +1312-742-7529
- Visit website
Local tips
- Consider purchasing a city pass for discounted admission to multiple attractions within the campus.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and fully enjoy each museum.
- Don't miss the beautiful views from the Adler Planetarium's outdoor terrace, especially at sunset.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding parks, offering a relaxing break from museum tours.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards downtown Chicago. The Museum Campus is located at 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601. From the Kennedy Expressway (I-90/I-94), take the exit for I-55 S towards Stevenson Expwy. Merge onto I-55 S, then take the exit for Congress Parkway. Follow Congress Parkway and turn left onto Columbus Drive. Continue on Columbus Drive, then turn right onto E Randolph St. You can find parking at the nearby Grant Park garages, which usually charge around $20 for a few hours.
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Public Transportation - CTA Train
To reach The Museum Campus via public transportation, take the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) 'L' train. You can board the Red Line or the Blue Line, and transfer to the Loop at State/Lake Station. From there, take the Brown, Green, Pink, or Orange Line to the Harold Washington Library stop. Then, transfer to the #146 or #130 bus towards the Museum Campus. The bus will take you directly to the campus, and a single ride costs $2.50.
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Public Transportation - CTA Bus
If you prefer to take a bus, several CTA bus routes serve The Museum Campus. You can take the #146 bus from various locations in downtown Chicago, which will take you directly to the Museum Campus area. Make sure to have your Ventra card or cash ready; the fare is $2.50 for a single ride. The bus stops at multiple locations along the campus, including near the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum.
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Bike
If you're feeling adventurous, consider biking to The Museum Campus. Chicago has an extensive bike lane network. You can rent a Divvy bike from one of the many stations located throughout the city. Ride towards the lakefront trail which leads directly to the campus. The bike rental costs around $3.50 for a single ride, with additional charges for longer rides.
Discover more about The Museum Campus
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway
0.5 km
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The Blues Trail: Mississippi to Chicago
0.7 km
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Jewel-Osco
1.0 km
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Ludington Building
1.0 km
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Queen's Landing
1.1 km
Explore Queen's Landing, Chicago's historical landmark with stunning lakefront views and close proximity to iconic attractions like Navy Pier and Shedd Aquarium.
Clarke-Ford House
1.2 km
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Elbridge G Keith House
1.2 km
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Dearborn Station
1.4 km
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Second Presbyterian Church
1.4 km
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Second Leiter Building
1.6 km
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Morton Building
1.6 km
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Historic End of Route 66 Sign
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Loop Mural
1.6 km
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The Art Institute of Chicago
1.6 km
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Old Colony Building
1.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Museum Campus
0.0 km
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Shedd Aquarium
0.2 km
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4-D Experiences
0.2 km
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Field Museum
0.2 km
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Soldier Field
0.5 km
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Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
0.6 km
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Adler Planetarium Skyline Walk
0.6 km
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Adler Planetarium
0.6 km
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Americas' Courtyard
0.7 km
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Northerly Island Park
0.9 km
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Grant Park
1.0 km
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The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park
1.0 km
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South Loop
1.1 km
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Glessner House
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Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain
1.1 km
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Essential places to dine
The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
0.8 km
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Mercat a la Planxa
1.2 km
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Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
1.7 km
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The Berghoff Restaurant
1.9 km
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Hot Woks Cool Sushi
1.9 km
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The Gage
1.9 km
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Acanto
1.9 km
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Cherry Circle Room
1.9 km
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Double Clutch at Millennium Hall
2.0 km
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Millennium Hall
2.0 km
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Casa Bonita at Millenium Park
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Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar at Millennium Hall
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Remington's
2.0 km
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The Village
2.1 km
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Atwood
2.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Sue Store
0.2 km
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Roosevelt Collection Shops
1.5 km
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Bye Bye Chicago
1.6 km
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The Symphony Store
1.7 km
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My Chicago!
1.9 km
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Feelings Gift Shop
1.9 km
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Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop
1.9 km
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Buddy
2.1 km
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Gifts R Us
2.1 km
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YoGoe
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After School Matters Gift Shop
2.3 km
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I Love Chicago
2.5 km
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Kyrgyzstan
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Souvenir City Chicago
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Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kasey's Tavern
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Panchos Rooftop Cantina
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2Twenty2 Tavern
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The Game Room
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Cindy's Rooftop
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Drawing Room
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The Milk Room
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Adamus Lounge
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Best Bar
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Vol. 39
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MBar - Millennium Station
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Bar Pendry Chicago
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Emerald Loop Bar & Grill
2.5 km
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RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
2.5 km
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320 River Bar
2.8 km
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