Best & Cool Science and Space Museums in Oak Park

"Come meet SUE, the world's largest T-Rex, at this famous museum of science and anthropology. At this larger-than-life exhibit and many others, you and your family will travel back in time and all around the world. NEW for 2018 -- SUE is being transferred to her own "throne room" to give her a dedicated space, and to make room for a brand new critter, even bigger than a T-Rex!"

"The Field Museum of Natural History, better known as The Field Museum, is one of the most beautiful places to explore Chicago. Located in Grant Park, it features pieces that tell the history of humankind in all ages, from the era of dinosaurs. It is a different, exciting, and realistic place, ideal for those who want to learn more about other civilizations."

"The Field Museum is everything you’d expect in a natural history and science museum. Kids can shrink to the size of a bug to crawl around the Underground Adventure or sit back in awe, watching Sue the T-Rex’s life story in 3D. The Crown Family Play Lab is a place just for the smallest visitors, and gives kids a hands-on opportunity to explore the exhibits."

"Among the 26 different gardens here are the three-island Malott Japanese Garden, the 5-acre Evening Island, and the Grunsfeld Children's…"

"Quality nigiri, sashimi, and maki selections are joined by an array of appetizers and hot entrees at Nabuki, a Hinsdale eatery known for its Latin-influenced take on Japanese cuisi..."

"This is one of those restaurants that assures you of its authenticity with its loyal following of transplants from Asia, who regularly show up for a taste of home. Though small, the dining room is lined in wood and is constantly filled with sushi fans that say this is the best maki and nigiri in town. You can also get your fish cooked, if you prefer."

"The gist: Sushi chef Otto Phan, the mastermind behind the acclaimed omakase restaurant Kyoten, returns with this bi-level, dual concept spot featuring a casual first-floor walk-in izakaya abutting a reservation-only omakase upstairs.The food: Downstairs, expect a modern take on Japanese street fare like butter shoyu chicken, shrimp and pork gyoza with shiitake XO sauce and gochujang, and soy braised short rib, among other shareables. Upstairs, Phan offers one 6 pm seating per night (two on Saturday) of a 15-course, 90-minute Edomae-style sushi omakase, with each component spanning different aging and marinating techniques. The cost: Izakaya dishes $6 - $14, omakase $125 - $150 per person, cocktails $14, wine and sake by the glass $10 - $18, wine and sake by the bottle $45 - $120.How to book: Reserve via OpenTable."

"Hinoki Sushiko offers two distinct experiences: snag a spot in the sleek first-floor Izakaya-style lounge to try new twists on Japanese street food between sips of craft sake. On the other hand, you could reserve a spot upstairs for an Omakase experience, where the chef presents you with 18 pieces of traditionally prepared sushi. (Hop on that reservation, though—there’s only one Omakase seating per night, with limited availability.)"

"The investors behind Hinoki Sushiko reeled in a big fish when they brought in Kyoten chef Otto Phan into the project. While Phan remains focused on his Logan Square sushi den, he’s lent his talents in developing the menu and sharing where he sources his imported fish. Hinoki Sushiko will be a fun spot for Japanese pub snacks and drinks on the first floor."

"The Alarmist Brewing taproom, near Albany Park and West Ridge, is different for a reason. The family-owned spot wanted to create a community space where people could come together (which is why you won’t see any TVs in the taproom). It’s also super family-friendly, welcoming kids with snacks and juice boxes."

"Swing buy and shop for some brews, or order online for curbside pickup. Either way you get a top-notch drink!"

"Tucked down Rockwell Avenue in the Avondale neighborhood, Metropolitan Brewing’s Tap Room sits right on the banks of the North Branch of the Chicago River. They’re currently building a massive outdoor patio right on the river, but in the meantime, you can get a beer, order food from the rotating delivery partners, and gaze at the green views out the massive floor to ceiling windows. ➙ Need a place to stay?"

"Don’t be fooled by the warehouse aesthetic—there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes than you realize. This BYO food joint nestled up on the riverbanks in Bucktown offers outdoor seating with gorgeous views of the surrounding greenery, making you feel like you’re miles outside the city limits."

"Since 2009, Metropolitan Brewing has specialized in bringing Chicago German-style lager, like their flagship brew, Krankshaft. Krankshaft is a Kölsch style beer and uses lemon flavor to pay homage to the characteristics of beer brewed in Cologne. Krankshaft can be found year-round."