Is Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum worth visiting?

Yes, for over 167 years, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum has been connecting people of all ages to nature and science through immersive exhibits, family events, and conservation research, inspiring wonder and fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world.

What are the best things to see and do at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum?

Visitors can explore both permanent and new exhibitions, which feature everything from live animals to captivating photography. There are also opportunities to get up close with animals, participate in drop-by programs, and register for exclusive experiences.

What are the opening hours at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum?

The museum is open today from 10am to 4pm. Please check the official site for date-specific hours, as they may vary.

Is Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is suitable for all ages, offering engaging exhibits and family events designed to inspire curiosity about the natural world in everyone.

Where is the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum located?

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is located at 2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, in Chicago, Illinois.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

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Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

Image credits

Photo by Alanscottwalker via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-3.0

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About Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Live animals, conservation science, and 167 years of connecting Chicago to nature.

Part of the Chicago Academy of Sciences, this Lincoln Park museum has spent generations bringing the natural world into the city.

What you'll see and do - Explore permanent and rotating exhibitions featuring live animals and captivating photography. - Get up close with animals during drop-by programs and registered hands-on experiences. - Discover conservation research and resources that help visitors become active nature champions.

Attraction Details

Opening Times

Monday10 AM to 4 PM
Tuesday10 AM to 4 PM
Wednesday10 AM to 4 PM
Thursday10 AM to 4 PM
Friday10 AM to 4 PM
Saturday10 AM to 4 PM
Sunday10 AM to 4 PM

Events at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Animal Empathy Valentines Drop By Craft
Sunday, Feb 15, 2026
Make a valentine for an animal at the Nature Museum and explore Mysteries of the Marsh to learn about our animals.
C3 Explorer Event: Diving Deeper with Urban Rivers - Beaver Talk
Thursday, Mar 12, 2026
Join Urban Rivers and C3 at the Nature Museum for a lecture to learn about research into Chicago's urban beavers and their role as ecosystem engineers.
MOVIE SCREENING: Hawk Watch Documentary
Sunday, Mar 15, 2026
This free screening of 'Hawk Watch' documentary will feature local hawk watchers discussing hawk watching locations near Chicago.
C3 Explorer Event: Recycling in Chicago–A Virtual Lecture
Thursday, Apr 23, 2026
Join this virtual event with C3 and Chicago Streets and Sanitation representatives to understand how recycling works in the city and discover helpful tools.
Birds Show Us the Way: An evening with BirdLife International CEO Martin Harper
Monday, May 11, 2026
Join for a special program with Martin Harper, CEO of BirdLife International, to discuss Chicago's role in global bird conservation and what we can learn from birds.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is at 2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

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This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 10/17/2026