Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum — high-caliber food in Old Town. Warm, knowledgeable staff that makes it feel personal. Arlo M.: "Best of all the butterfly sanctuary has many species of butterflies and even some birds" [patio]
What 2,298 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Great place to take kids. The Butterfly section is extraordinary!”

“I used to bring my children here and now I bring my grandchildren. It excites them and expands their knowledge as as much as they do with their parents. The butterfly garden is also an amazing exhibit you don’t want to miss! Lastly, be sure to stop at the taxidermy station if they are there working on an animal. Parking is a nightmare if you don’t arrive early or during lunch as parents are leaving.”

“It was amazing, this is my second visit; although it has been some years ago. I really enjoyed the exhibits some old some new I will return soon with my grandchildren.”

“Always ice to visit te musem, lots of ti gs to see and to learn”

“What a delightful hidden gem in Lincoln Park! The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum instantly warmed my heart with its beautiful Butterfly Haven, where hundreds of colorful butterflies flutter around you like living magic. The hands-on exhibits are engaging and educational for all ages, and the whole space feels light, welcoming, and full of wonder. Perfect for a peaceful, inspiring afternoon reconnecting with nature right in the city. Highly recommend!🌿🦋”

“I especially loved the butterfly interactive experience as well as the cyanotype exhibition (I started crying)”

“06/06/26: A fun place for families and those who love nature. Many exhibits on Illinois and Midwest animals, fish, etc. Live turles, snakes, fish, etc. Little kids play area. Butterfly house with tropical species. Outside walk to observe birds.”

“We visited its butterfly preservation room callled "Heaven". Kids loved it.”

“Great museum! Watching the butterfly release was especially fun - it’s really cool to see such beautiful butterflies up close 🦋”

“Great stop for Toddlers! The interactive color your own butterfly room was awesome. Loved the flood plane/dam/city interactive water play.”
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