Illinois State Museum: Exploring Illinois' Heritage

The Illinois State Museum, founded in 1877, is located in the Capitol Complex of Springfield, Illinois. It stands as a dynamic institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the natural, cultural, and artistic heritage of the state. The museum's extensive collections and research activities form the foundation for its diverse exhibitions and public programs, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of Illinois' past and present.The museum features three floors of exhibitions that narrate the story of Illinois' land, life, people, and art. Visitors can explore the state's natural history through interactive displays, life-sized dioramas of Ice Age mammals, and thousands of authentic fossils and zoological specimens. Exhibits also delve into the lives of the American Indians who inhabited the land for over 10,000 years and the European settlers who shaped the prairies of Illinois. Changing exhibitions highlight ongoing scientific research and showcase Illinois' artistic legacy with displays of fine and decorative art by Illinois artists.The Illinois State Museum also includes the Mary Ann MacLean Play Museum, a dedicated space for children to engage in hands-on learning experiences. Here, young visitors can dig for Ice Age fossils, study specimens under a microscope, and create their own art and history exhibits. The museum's commitment to education extends to a variety of programs and events for all ages, ensuring an enriching and engaging experience for every visitor.Beyond the Springfield location, the Illinois State Museum system includes the Research and Collections Center in Springfield, Dickson Mounds Museum in Lewistown, and the Lockport Gallery in Lockport.