Illinois

We'd driven through Illinois, but never stopped to do anything!  We had ~24 hours and decided to cram in as many museums (and one good dinner!) as we could.

Shedd's Aquarium

It was a nice aquarium -- we got to see a 4D movie (they spray water at you!) and a live show with dolphins & beluga whales.  I always love the jellys & they had a special exhibit on them.

This guy was TERRIFYING.  I literally had to run away from the window - crazy crazy looking pufferfish!  I kind of have the chills posting these photos!  He was as big as a basketball and hiding in the shadows at the top of the tank with that crazy crazy face.  Yikes yikes!

Art Institute of Chicago

 We hadn't planned on going to the Art Institute, but it was part of the CityPass so we walked down early in the morning.  It was surprisingly good!  There was a big impressionist section (my favorite) & they have the American Gothic painting.  We did a quick walk through - and look at the gorgeous day outside!

Field Museum

Dinosaurs & stuffed (taxidermy) animals & gemstones!  This is Nick with Sue - the most complete T Rex ever found.  You could spend days here, but we did those three highlights before heading back to the airport.

It was a great trip!  We were tired, but felt like we really saw interesting stuff - & even learned a little!  And get to check off #92 Museums!

How scary is that pufferfish???