Disability Pride Month

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.

Low Sensory Spaces

As many of these spaces do have audio and visual features, feel free to check out our Tactile and Auditory Guide so you can be sure to plan out how to enjoy your visit to the fullest extent. Note: Sound levels and busyness may increase on certain days such as Illinois free days, holidays, and/or during the summer.

Maori Meeting House

(Upper Level, West) A meeting house like this is the focal point of a marae, a sacred area where members of a Maori community gather for ceremonies and celebations. While busy at times, this space offers benches and many quiet hours.

Sue Ling Gin Garden

(Upper Level, East) This serene, calming space offers beautiful natural light and benches for sitting in this generally quiet space that overlooks Lake Michigan

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 outdoor benches and a peaceful environment for those who might benefit from fresh air and natural light.

West Entrance

(Ground level) This space is typically quiet and offers a moment of respite despite its proximity to our 3D Movie Theatres. The environment is relatively empty for most of the day, providing a calm atmosphere despite the bright lighting. Several benches are available for seating, and while there is often a consistent audio loop playing every so often, the space still feels soothing due to its open, spacious layout.

Cyrus Tang Hall of China

(Upper Level, East) With its dim lighting and generally quiet ambiance, this exhibit offers a peaceful retreat. The soft lighting and spacious layout invite calm exploration of China’s expansive history, making it a suitable space for those seeking a sensory-friendly environment. However, there is an audio and visual loop near the shadow puppets and at the entrance, adding a subtle layer of sound to the experience. Despite this, the overall atmosphere remains serene and reflective, allowing visitors to engage at their own pace.

T. Kimball and Nancy N. Brooker Gallery

(Upper Level, North) A tranquil space perfect for unwinding, the Brooker Gallery offers comfortable seating and a soothing atmosphere. Low classical music plays in the background, enhancing the calm without overwhelming the senses. Visitors can enjoy a visual projection of various bird drawings by John James Audubon, artist and ornithologist, which provides a gentle visual focus. The combination of soft music, cozy seating, and artistic imagery makes this gallery an ideal low-sensory spot for quiet reflection.

Ronald and Christina Gidwitz Hall of Birds

(Main Level, West) This exhibit is typically a quiet space, although it can become busy during peak times. With several seating options scattered throughout, visitors can find a comfortable spot to relax and observe our stunning collection of birds. While the space remains mostly calm, there are video and audio displays in select areas, providing informative content without overwhelming the atmosphere. It's a great space to enjoy both visual and auditory elements at a subdued pace.

Small Treasures Gallery

(Ground Level, East) With its dark lighting and tranquil ambiance, the Small Treasures Gallery offers a peaceful environment, often less populated by others. This quiet space invites calm reflection, perfect for those seeking a sensory-friendly experience. The subdued atmosphere enhances the intimate feel of the exhibit, allowing visitors to focus on the delicate details of our collection of beetles, butterflies, and other fascinating bugs without distraction.

Elizabeth Hubert Malott Hall of Jades

(Upper Level, Southeast) The Malott Hall of Jades offers a serene, dimly lit atmosphere, perfect for quiet observation. With bench seating available, visitors can sit and immerse themselves in the intricate beauty of our various jade displays. The space remains peaceful, with minimal noise on most days, making it an ideal low-sensory environment for those seeking a calm, reflective experience.

Plants of the World

(Upper Level, East) The Plant Hall offers a peaceful retreat with its dim lighting and typically quiet ambiance. It’s often less populated, creating a soothing space where visitors can explore at their own pace. The gallery features numerous small crevices and cozy nooks, perfect for tucking away and taking a few quiet moments to relax or reflect amidst the greenery. The subtle atmosphere makes it an excellent low-sensory option for those looking to escape the busier areas of the museum.

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.