Best time to visit
Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Last reviewed June 2026 by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards
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
Facilities
- Toilets
- Gift Shop
- Baby Changing
- Food Options
- Parking
- Pushchair Friendly
- Wheelchair Friendly
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
Onsite or nearby parking available at 2430 N Cannon Dr.
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
This attraction has been claimed and verified.
Last updated 6/23/2026
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Reviews
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