Field Trips - Chicago History Museum

Field Trip Quick Links

Field trips at CHM

Field trips to the Chicago History Museum enable students to interact with artifacts, documents, works of art, learning stations, and more. See, hear, experience, and even touch history to develop an understanding of the past and how it informs our present.

Get field trip planning tips, on-site student worksheets, and answers to your frequently asked questions here.
Scroll down to learn more about our on-site field trip options.

Field Trip Request Form

Learn More about Field Trips for Different Age Groups

Pre-K and Kindergarten

Elementary School

Middle and High School

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a field trip reservation?

To schedule your trip, complete our online form. Reservations are not accepted via telephone.

How far in advance should I schedule my field trip?

Please schedule your visit at least three weeks in advance. Spaces fill quickly, so please make your reservations early. Consult a school calendar in advance that indicates holidays, in-services, report card days, and school events.

How will I know if my reservation is confirmed?

Your visit is not guaranteed until you have received a confirmation letter via the email provided.

Can I make a lunchroom reservation?

Request a lunchroom reservation using the reservation form. Space is limited. The lunchroom is available for students up to grade 12, we will accommodate high school students as available. Students should bring their own lunches and beverages; storage will be provided.

Can I select my entrance or exit time?

Yes, you should choose both your entrance and exit times. Visits begin at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday and at 12:00 noon on Sunday. Visits can last from one hour to three hours. The museum closes at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. We will do our best to accommodate your requested times, but we cannot guarantee them.

What is the maximum group size?

Maximum group size is 100. We ask you to subdivide your students into groups of 10 prior to your visit.

How many chaperones do you require?

We require one adult for every ten students for grades 3 through 12. For groups in grades pre-K through grade 2, we require one adult for every five children.

What activities can I do before and after my field trip?

There are an array of activities based on the Museum’s collection and developed in collaboration with educators to choose from. Take a look at our classroom resources page.

What supports do you offer during field trips?

We offer a variety of on-site student work sheets to support your visit. During your visit, be sure to stop at our facilitated IDEA stations.

What are the Museum's gallery rules?

The following are not allowed in our galleries: backpacks, food, drinks (including water bottles), chewing gum, and pens. These rules apply to students, teachers, and chaperones alike. Storage for coats and lunches is provided. While masks are recommended and appreciated, they are no longer required.

Can we visit the Museum store during our field trip?

Yes, 10 students with a chaperone are welcome to visit the store at a time. The Museum store opens at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday and at 12:00 noon on Sunday. The store closes at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

What are your COVID-19 safety guidelines?

Student groups are not required to show proof of vaccination. While masks are welcomed and appreciated, they are no longer required. You can familiarize yourself with our COVID-19 safety guidelines in advance of your visit.

My question isn't answered here. How do I contact you?

Please use our contact form or call Brie Jones, Youth Groups Coordinator, at (312) 799-2273.

I’m part of a partner university or college, how can I arrange a visit for my group?

Please fill out the University Partner Group Form to book your visit. A member of the Visitor Services team will confirm your request and reach out via email with further details regarding your visit.