Best Museums in Palos Hills

"Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art, just off the Magnificent Mile, explores, exhibits, and collects art created since 1945. The museum is dedicated to allowing the public "to directly experience the work and ideas of living artists and understand the historical, social, and cultural context of the art of our time." It also puts a major emphasis on diverse voices that communicate through art. Continue to 5 of 10 below."

"The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago — better known as the MCA — is a triple threat. There’s a constant rotation of thought-provoking works and artist retrospectives in the galleries; a cutting-edge mix of dance, music, and theater on the stage; and a menu of seasonal cuisine from a top Chicago chef in the kitchen. If you can visit in the warm-weather months, alfresco concerts and outdoor installations add to the mix."

"Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art holds one of the world’s largest collections of post-1950 art. You can easily explore the museum by foot in just a couple of hours, making it perfect for an afternoon activity. In addition to world-famous works, they also host exhibits dedicated to local artists and put a lot of care into the local community."

"This accredited museum in the Pilsen area is dedicated to preserving and facilitating knowledge about Latino life and history. Exhibits focus on Mexican culture as it's represented in the US and in Mexico, and the permanent collection includes folk art, ephemera, sculpture, textiles and drawings. Performing arts are also featured and the center hosts special events throughout the year to advance the museum's objectives."

"Located in Lincoln Park, the Peggy Notebaert Museum is dedicated to expanding knowledge of nature and environmental science. While this might sound advanced for a young child, the museum is actually very toddler-friendly with numerous hands-on exhibits. From an up close visit with critters to an obligatory “burn some energy” play space, the Peggy Notebaert is a gem in the city."

"Nestled on the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, the Smart Museum houses more than 15,000 artworks, ranging from European paintings and Asian arts to contemporary and modern art. This is also home to The H. C. Westermann Study Collection, which is one of the most significant public collections of artwork and archival material related to the artist’s life and work. Bonus: the Smart Museum is free."

"Plan ahead to pack a few stops in the surrounding area of this museum. You could explore the beautiful campus setting (University of Chicago in the leafy Hyde Park neighborhood) as well as other Museum Campus South attractions — like DuSable Museum of African American History — with budget-friendly admission prices. At the Smart Museum, everything is free."

"Part of the University of Chicago, the Smart Museum of Art has an impressive collection. This includes works organised by continent – such as Asia and Europe – and works organised by theme – e.g.  contemporary art and modern art. The museum also houses a significant collection of works by the 20th century American sculptor and printmaker H.C."

"DuSable Museum of African American History is not only a site that houses valuable artifacts of African-American history, but the building itself is a structure of historical importance. Architect Daniel H Burnham had originally constructed the structure as horse stables, but the beautiful timber and limestone structure from the 19th century houses one of the best-curated museums today. Teenagers and preteens will be able to appreciate the art exhibitions and poetry reading sessions that capture the African-American experience."

"Cool fact… the DuSable Museum of African American History is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in the country. Another cool fact… Chicago-proud musician and celebrity Chance the Rapper added some star power to their efforts when he joined as a museum board trustee this year. It’s pretty special to be so rooted in history and heritage, but also very future forward."

"The DuSable is the nation's oldest museum dedicated to the exploration, documentation, and celebration of the African-American experience. It's in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood and is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Its holdings include 15,000 paintings, sculptures, and historic memorabilia that illuminate the African-American experience."

"Ongoing weekend programs at the museum include workshops for kids to learn about identifying rocks and minerals or learning how to make jewelry. Collections include gemstones, fossils and an ornate castle. Online activities include virtual jewelry classes and rock identification classes."

"The Spa Peninsula by ESPA earns a place on the list for their luxury treatment named Peninsula Haven. This is a 4.5 hour treatment which includes an Uplifting Mint Experience, Espa Intensive Facial and a Reflex Zone foot massage. It's a mint-inspired treatment that combines aromatherapy with energetic massage and includes a tailored facial for $630."

"With an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, cozy lounge by the fireplace, fitness center, and yoga room, The Peninsula Spa offers a wide range of amenities. They even carry an extensive menu of both current and classic treatments, from Hot-Stone to Bamboo massages. And they’re highly skilled and attentive, making sure that you leave totally revived."

"Source: Photo by Flickr user Lou Stejskal used under CC BY 2.0. The Peninsula Spa is the epitome of urban luxury. If you need to de-stress, relax or just let loose then you must visit this spa."

"Freeze and Float offers three rejuvenating therapies totally unlike the traditional spa experience. Where a typical sauna heats the room, their infrared saunas use special heating units to raise your body temperature directly. That helps you break a healthy sweat and improve your circulation, so you can keep warm even after you’ve left."

"As we navigate the evolving impact of coronavirus on our communities, we are temporarily closing our dining room seating to help limit person-to-person contact. Some of our restaurants may only offer service through our drive-thrus, while others may be able to offer takeout, delivery or mobile or..."

"American , Bar Food"

"Residing comfortably along the riverfront is this relaxed American hotspot. If you’re looking for a Chicago restaurant with a view to bring a date, this destination offers a beautiful upward perspective of the buildings across the water. It’s easy to get a pleasant kind of vertigo from checking out all of the surrounding architecture."

"Restaurants American River North. No matter the season, this sweet riverfront restaurant offers unparalleled views of the city. Come summer, a narrow patio along the water gives guests an eyeful of the Riverwalk and the surrounding skyscrapers."