The best arts & culture spots in DeKalb

“Whether you need a midweek reset or want to wow a curious kid, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum delivers immersive exhibits, live animals, and very chill butterflies. Drop-by programs and hands-on science make it feel like nature class, minus the homework, right in our own backyard.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 3, 2026

“This weekend, Military History Weekend rolls through at Fox River Trolley Museum, combining scenic rides in vintage electric cars with flag raising, weapons demonstrations, and even a tongue in cheek train robbery. Good excuse to get out, hear some stories, and remember why trains make everything feel more epic.”

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Part teaching museum, part conversation starter, Pick Museum Of Anthropology curates exhibits that highlight human and cultural diversity and spark real dialogue. Put it on this week’s radar, skim their themes, then rally a friend for a perspective-refreshing visit when you need a brain stretch.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Interactive exhibits, artifacts & memorabilia help tell the story of the city's rich sports history.”

“Family museum on Navy Pier with lots of interactive exhibits, including many for young kids.”

“State-of-the-art museum of science & invention, with the world's largest Tyrannosaurus Rex.”

“Immersive rooms with optical illusions & holograms designed to deceive the eye, popular for photos.”

“Some 18,000 paintings, photographs, sculptures & more are housed at this art museum.”

“Colonel George Fabyan's historic home, with his collection of Asian artifacts plus Japanese gardens.”

“This venue hosts the Chicago Opera Theater as well as a variety of music and dance performances.”

“Renowned art museum holding nearly 300,000 works from all over the world, spanning many centuries.”

“Built in 1879, this Victorian-style home on a 10-acre estate offers a visitor center & guided tours.”

“Photos, artifacts, newsreels & dioramas bring to life historical events, architecture & culture.”

“Important example of early modern architecture from 1892 by Louis Sullivan & Frank Lloyd Wright.”

“Preserved home of the inventor of barbed wire, which helped to change the West in 1873.”