Featured Programs and Resources
Throughout July, celebrate the disability community with Field staff and collaborators. Look through our resources as we ensure we are continuously creating an inclusive environment for all visitors. Also, check out some recommended reading at your local Chicago Public Library.
Accessibility at the Field Museum
The Field Museum strives to ensure we are creating a community of inclusion and accessibility for all who enter the museum. Check out our offerings and resources to make the most out of your next visit.
ASL Storytime with Chicago Public Library
Join us on July 9 for storytelling at the Field Museum with Chicago Public Library. Enjoy stories in honor of Disability Pride Month told through American Sign Language (ASL). This event is ideal for children aged 0 to 5 and their caregivers or school groups, but all ages are welcome.
Field Favorites in ASL
See the best of what the Field Museum has to offer in this 45-minute guided tour presented in American Sign Language on Saturday, July 26 at 1:00pm.
Low Sensory Spaces
While many of the following spaces include some audio or visual elements, they tend to offer quieter, less stimulating environments for visitors who may benefit from lower-sensory settings. Please consult our Tactile and Auditory Guide for additional information as you plan your visit. Note: These spaces may be busier during Illinois Free Days, holidays, and summer months.
Maori Meeting House
(Upper Level, West) A place of cultural significance and storytelling, this space represents a traditional Māori meeting house. While it may be busy during school groups or tours, it often offers quieter moments throughout the day. Benches provide a place to sit and take a break.
Sue Ling Gin Garden
(Upper Level, East) This indoor garden space provides natural light and a generally calm atmosphere. Benches are available for resting. It’s typically quiet and offers views of Lake Michigan, making it a good option for a brief pause.
Nature Walk
(Main Level, East) This serene gallery features dioramas and natural history displays in a quiet, softly lit environment. It typically has lower foot traffic and minimal interactive elements.
North or South Gardens
(Outside, Weather Permitting) The Rice Native Gardens offer fresh air, plant life, and places to sit. These areas can provide a quieter alternative to indoor galleries when weather allows.
West Entrance
(Ground level) Though adjacent to the 3D Theater area, this hallway tends to remain quiet and lightly trafficked. The space includes several benches, open sight lines, and bright lighting. A recurring audio loop plays periodically but is not constant or loud.
Cyrus Tang Hall of China
(Upper Level, East) This exhibit space is dimly lit and generally quiet, with wide paths that allow for comfortable movement. Audio and visual elements are present near the entrance and shadow puppet area, but the overall environment remains calm and encourages slower exploration.
T. Kimball and Nancy N. Brooker Gallery
(Upper Level, North) A quiet, single room gallery, this space features projected artwork and soft classical music. Seating is available, and the atmosphere supports quiet rest or reflection.
Ronald and Christina Gidwitz Hall of Birds
(Main Level, West) This space is usually calm, with opportunities to sit throughout. Some areas include video or audio displays, such as birds chirping, but these are limited and not overly loud. During peak hours, the space can become more active.
Small Treasures Gallery / Insects
(Ground Level, East) With lower lighting and fewer visitors, this gallery offers a quieter section off of the busier ground floor hallway. It showcases detailed displays of insects and tends to remain quiet, allowing for a focused, slower-paced visit.
Elizabeth Hubert Malott Hall of Jades
(Upper Level, Southeast) This gallery provides a dim, peaceful environment with benches for resting. It is often quiet, allowing visitors to take in the detailed jade objects without distractions.
Plants of the World
(Upper Level, East) This gallery features dim lighting and typically low noise levels. Its layout includes small alcoves and benches that offer moments of quiet away from busier museum areas. Visitors can explore at their own pace in this restful space.
Recommended Reading
Celebrate Disability Pride Month by exploring these favorite books chosen by CPL's Diversability Advocacy Committee that highlight titles by authors with disabilities as well as authentic reads on the disability experience.