Museum Campus Trails

The Chicago Museum Campus with its walkways resides in the southeast end of Grant Park, between downtown and Lake Michigan's western shore. The 3 historic museums that comprise the campus are the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum of Natural History. The 57-acre campus also houses Soldier Field football field.

The single named trail on the Campus is the Museum and Lakefront Walking Trail, which can be walked solo or as a tour. Paved, as all of the walkways are, this is an easy stroll with little elevation change that will take you along the lake's shoreline and past the museums. It crosses a narrow isthmus to reach the planetarium on Northerly Island, and along the way view several Neoclassical sculptures. 

Looping and twisting walkways criss cross the Campus between the imposing white buildings, and they feature grassy park, abundant trees and flower plantings. A marina full of bobbing sailboats graces the lakefront, and sailboats and other vessels can be seen from ashore. The view of the Chicago skyline is arguably the best in the city. There is seemingly always a robust breeze on Lake Michigan and this park is no exception, which keeps you and your pup from overheating as you amble around. Water fountains are available, as are restrooms, but do bring a bowl for your pup and waste bags.

Official parking for the Museum Campus is at a garage that charges a fee of $25.00 for the day, but there's also metered street parking at $3.00 for each 2 hours. For those who want or need to stay connected, free WiFi is supplied on campus.

With so many scenic views, great walkability and its proximity to the lake, the Campus Museum Trails are a must-do for Chicagoans and tourists alike. As close at it is to downtown, an easy stroll from home or work takes only a few minutes for solitude and, even on busy tourist days, peace and quiet.