The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a natural history museum located in Lincoln Park, Chicago, focusing on the ecology and environmental history of the Illinois region. Operated by the Chicago Academy of Sciences, it serves as a center for scientific research, environmental education, and public engagement with the natural world.
The museum building, designed by Perkins and Will, is noted for its sustainable architecture and integration into the surrounding park landscape. It features interactive exhibits, including the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, which houses thousands of live butterflies in a climate-controlled conservatory, and displays detailing the geological and biological evolution of the Chicago area.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Glass, Steel, Concrete
- Civilization
- United States
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible
- Date(s)
- 1999
- Condition
- Active
- Original Function
- Natural history museum
- Key Figures
- Peggy Notebaert, Judy Istock
Origins of the Academy
1857The Chicago Academy of Sciences was founded in 1857, making it one of the oldest scientific institutions in the United States. Its early collections were largely destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, necessitating a long period of rebuilding and relocation.
Establishment of the Museum
1999The current museum facility was opened in 1999 in Lincoln Park. It was established to provide a dedicated space for the Academy's extensive collections and to foster public understanding of the regional environment.
Modern Operations
2000-presentThe museum has expanded its focus to include citizen science initiatives, urban ecology research, and large-scale educational programming. It remains a key institution for environmental advocacy in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Cultural Significance
The museum plays a vital role in connecting urban residents with the natural history of the Midwest. By focusing on regional ecology rather than global natural history, it encourages local stewardship and provides a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges facing the Great Lakes region.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open daily. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Members of the Chicago Academy of Sciences receive free admission.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings to avoid school group crowds. The Butterfly Haven is most active during sunny, warm days.
Photography
Personal photography is permitted. Tripods and professional lighting equipment require prior authorization.
Nearby POIs
10 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]Chicago Academy of Sciences: A History — William K. Beatty. Chicago Academy of Sciences (1990)
- [2]The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: Architecture and Ecology — Perkins and Will. Architectural Record (2000)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Glass, Steel, Concrete
- Civilization
- United States
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible