Field Museum Basic Admission Ticket with Tasting Experience

Experience the Best of the Field Museum with a Tasting Twist

If your idea of a museum visit involves more than just gazing at displays, this Field Museum Basic Admission Ticket with Tasting Experience offers a delightful blend of education and indulgence. For $55 per person, you’ll spend around four to five hours exploring some of Chicago’s most iconic exhibits—think SUE the T. rex, the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, and the Native Truths: Our Voices, Our Stories—all while enjoying three curated tastings of locally inspired spirits and beer. The ticket is electronic, making it easy to access and flexible to your schedule.

What makes this experience stand out for us is the combination of engaging exhibits with a culinary twist rooted in the museum’s botanical collections. It’s a clever way to enhance your visit, especially if you’re someone who appreciates a good story behind what you’re drinking. We also love the easy proximity to public transportation—no need to rent a car to get your museum fix. The $55 price point offers good value, considering the combination of access and tastings, but keep in mind it’s designed for those 21 and over.

One aspect to consider is that the tasting is limited to three drinks, which might feel brief if you’re a connoisseur or want a more in-depth experience. Also, for those traveling with minors, this might not be suitable unless they’re content to explore the non-alcoholic exhibits while you sip away. This tour best suits visitors who enjoy learning about natural history but also like pairing culture with a little local flavor.

Who should consider this tour? If you’re a curious traveler who loves museums but also enjoys a good drink and a story, this ticket balances both worlds. It’s ideal for those wanting a taste of Chicago’s natural history with an added culinary dimension—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone with a penchant for both knowledge and spirits.

Key Points

• All-Access to Major Exhibits: Includes SUE the T. rex, Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, and more.
• Tasting Experience: Curated drinks inspired by the museum’s botanical collections, limited to three tastings.
• Convenient & Flexible: Mobile ticket with access to public transportation, ideal for spontaneous plans.
• Age Restriction: Designed for those 21+ due to alcohol tastings.
• Time Estimate: Expect about four to five hours, allowing for a relaxed pace.
• Value for Money: Combines learning and leisure at a reasonable price point.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

When we first step into the Field Museum, it’s like stepping into a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural artifacts. The general admission grants access to some of the museum’s most popular exhibits, including the enormous SUE the T. rex, which is always a hit with visitors of all ages. The 90-foot-long skeleton gives you a real sense of the creature’s size—and the thrill of seeing a real fossil that’s more than 67 million years old is undeniable.

Beyond dinosaurs, you’ll find the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, which showcases the evolution of life on Earth. We loved the way the displays are organized chronologically, making it easy to follow the story of life’s incredible diversity. The exhibit is interactive enough to keep kids entertained but detailed enough for adult curiosity. The Robert R. McCormick Halls of the Ancient Americas and the Inside Ancient Egypt sections provide fascinating insights into early civilizations, with well-preserved artifacts and engaging narratives.

The highlight for many is the Native Truths: Our Voices, Our Stories exhibit. Unlike typical displays, this exhibit invites visitors to see history through Indigenous perspectives—something that adds depth and authenticity to your visit. It’s a reminder that museums are not just about objects but about stories and voices that continue to shape our understanding.

What really sets this tour apart, however, is the tasting component. Included in your ticket are three curated tastings—think Field Museum Gin, Vodka, Rye, and Pseudo SUE Beer—all inspired by the museum’s botanical collections. The drinks are crafted to reflect local ingredients or historical recipes, adding an educational flavor to your leisure time. As one reviewer mentioned, “It’s a fun way to learn about the museum’s history while enjoying a drink,” and we agree. The curated list is thoughtful, and the experience is designed to be about more than just drinking—it’s about connecting art, history, and local flavors.

The tasting experience is relatively brief but enjoyable. You’ll find the drinks are well-made, with enough variety to give you a sense of Chicago’s local spirits scene. Please note, this is strictly for those 21 and over, so if you’re traveling with younger family members, they’ll have plenty to explore outside the tasting.

Accessibility & logistics are straightforward. The mobile ticket makes entry smooth, and the museum’s location near public transit means you can easily combine this with other city activities. The duration—around four to five hours—allows plenty of time for a relaxed visit, with time to enjoy exhibits and sip your drinks without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience is especially suited for those who find museums a bit dry on their own but still want to learn something meaningful. The combination of educational exhibits with local spirits provides a memorable, multi-sensory experience. It’s perfect for couples looking for a unique date idea, small groups wanting to combine culture and fun, or solo travelers eager to make their Chicago visit stand out.

While the price might seem a little higher than a basic museum ticket, remember that you’re getting a curated tasting experience included. This makes it a good value for those interested in both natural history and Chicago’s craft spirit scene. Just keep in mind that the alcohol component means it’s not suitable for children or those avoiding alcohol.

The Sum Up

The Field Museum Basic Admission Ticket with Tasting Experience offers a well-rounded day of discovery and enjoyment. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see some of Chicago’s most famous exhibits—the dinosaurs, the gems, and the cultural artifacts—without feeling hurried. The added bonus of curated tastings inspired by the museum’s botanical collections makes this a genuinely memorable way to experience the city’s natural and cultural history in an engaging, flavorful way.

If you’re someone who appreciates detailed exhibits, enjoys trying local beverages, and prefers experiences that blend education with leisure, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those who want to maximize their museum visit with a little extra flavor—literally.

For visitors seeking a straightforward museum visit with a local twist, or a unique activity to break up your sightseeing, this ticket delivers. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of natural history while savoring a taste of Chicago’s vibrant craft scene.

FAQ

Is the ticket only for the museum, or does it include the tastings?
The ticket grants you access to all open general exhibitions at the museum and includes three curated tastings of spirits and beer inspired by the museum’s botanical collections.

How long is the experience?
Expect to spend approximately four to five hours, which includes exploring exhibits and enjoying your tastings at a relaxed pace.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, the tastings are only for those 21 and older, so this experience is intended for adults. Kids can still enjoy the exhibits, but they won’t be able to participate in the tastings.

Can I cancel this ticket?
Yes, the ticket is fully refundable if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.

Do I need to reserve a specific time?
The ticket is a mobile, general admission ticket that allows flexible entry; however, you should check the specific museum hours to plan your visit.

Is the tasting experience a full meal or just a taste?
It’s a curated tasting of three different spirits or beers. It’s designed to be a flavorful sampling rather than a full meal.

Will I be able to see all exhibits with this ticket?
You will have access to all open general exhibitions, including major highlights like SUE, the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, and others, but some specialty or closed exhibits may not be available.

Enjoy your visit to the Field Museum—where history, nature, and a little local spirit come together for a uniquely Chicago experience.