Best Museums in River Forest

"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."

"One of the world’s largest contemporary art museums, the MCA is full of modern and contemporary works. This includes pieces by Arthur Jafa and Kerry James Marshall. Famous artists like Frida Kahlo and Jeff Koons held their earliest exhibitions at the museum, which regularly runs curated exhibitions throughout the year."

"From folk art to photography to textiles, the National Museum of Mexican Art capitalizes on its galleries and exhibitions with ongoing and family-friendly events (for instance, during an exhibit about weaving, patrons were invited to learn to crochet to start their own traditions). Family Weekend workshops include all-ages art activities and events throughout the year highlight the Mexican culture, like Day of the Dead Xicágo, the Folk Art Festival and Día del Niño Health Walk and Family Festival."

"It was the first Latino museum in the country to be accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It has built its permanent collection to 10,000+ objects, making it one of the largest collections in the nation. The museum has remained free to all since originally opening in 1987."

"At Peggy Notebaert, Children are connected to nature and science through the museum’s hands-on exhibits, family events and education programming. Learn about the specimen and archival collections: birds, eggs and nests; mammals; amphibians and reptiles; insects and spiders; fossils and more. You'll find an indoor treehouse that can be climbed on and in to learn about animal habitats (there’s even a crow’s nest at the top)."

"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."

"While Thursdays are technically free to Illinois residents, a suggested donation helps keep things running smoothly during 2020 museum free days."

"Nestled in a dingy underground food court, Hello Jasmine is a modest boba place, but don’t let that fool you. The small shop stays true to the taste of Taiwanese boba, using the largest, most chewy balls that can be found in Chicago. Their grapefruit tea features pieces of real grapefruit (with peel), giving the drink a subtle bitter edge to accompany the sweet citrus taste."

"Covering an area of over 60 acres, Rainbow Beach and Park is a huge beach and one of the prominent public park areas in Chicago. Meander along the expansive lush green area of the park, choose from the varied sports options on offer which include basketball, tennis, baseball, handball, and take pleasure in the unparalleled views of the lakefront along with the skyline. Rainbow Beach and Park hosts holiday-themed events throughout the year and also organizes summer camps for adults and kids alike."

"Rainbow Beach Park boasts beautiful views of the Chicago skyline in the distance and is located in the southern part of Chicago. This park is one of the few that offers visitors free WiFi. Whether you want to work on the beach or simply relax, you’ll be connected."

"Cutting-edge conceptual art is the basis of Jean Albano's success. The gallery features works by local talents Gladys Nilsson and Margaret Wharton and has exhibited items by Ellen Lanyon and Jim Waid. A member of the Chicago Art Dealers' Association, the gallery offers contemporary paintings, sculpture, and mixed media works."

"At the Pritzker Military Museum & Library, You’ll find thousands of artifacts, books, posters, photographs, maps, and manuscripts, ranging from military medals to swords, that tell America’s history through the eyes of the citizen soldier. Take a tour any day of the week (free with admission) or wander collections ranging from WWII and Korean War training comics to medical research files on topics like early ambulances and Civil War nurses. Pritzker Military Museum & Library, 104 S."

"Now open Located just across from Millennium Park, the Pritzker Military Museum & Library is dedicated to educating the public about military history. The unique museum hosts a permanent exhibition on the Medal of Honor and is currently showing a special exhibit about Allied forces during World War II."

"The Pritzker Military Museum & Library in Chicago is dedicated to highlighting and studying military history. Founded in 2003, the museum now has more than 115,000 objects, 67,000 books, and 9,000 photos. The collection includes rare military memorabilia, glass negatives, posters, artwork, and videos."