Best & Cool Science and Space Museums in Oak Brook

"The Field Museum houses some 30 million artifacts and includes everything but the kitchen sink – beetles, mummies, gemstones, Bushman the stuffed ape – all tended by a slew of PhD-wielding scientists, as the Field remains an active research institution. The collection's rock star is Sue, the largest Tyrannosaurus rex yet discovered. She even gets her own gift shop. Special exhibits, such as the 3-D movie, cost extra."

"The Field Museum traces its roots back to the Columbian Exhibition of 1893, when its collection was on display for visitors in Jackson Park. Marshall Field donated $1 million to house the collection in a permanent Neoclassical building in Grant Park in 1921. Only a fraction of the museum’s 40 million objects are on display—the most iconic being SUE the T."

"Among the 26 different gardens here are the three-island Malott Japanese Garden, the 5-acre Evening Island, and the Grunsfeld Children's…"

"It likes to keep things simple when it comes to its macarons, for one, which come in six usual flavors: raspberry, salted caramel, pistachio, vanilla, chocolate, and Nutella. The bakery and cafe also offer a gift-wrapping service, both in boxes of 5, 10 and 20 or party favors: clear cubes with 2 macarons, or cellophane bags with 2 or 3 choices. We also love that although the macarons sold here are priced at $2.25 each, the price goes down with the more you buy."

"Paris may not be a car ride away, but Sugar Fixé is the next best thing. If you’re a major macaron enthusiast, you’ll love the macaron cake that resembles a mega macaron. Dreams really do come true."

"For theatre lovers, check out a performance at The Chicago Theatre. If you feel like doing an activity, head to 10pin Bowling Lounge under the Marina Towers north of the Chicago River. They offer a selection of beers and upscale snacks."

"Based on Navy Pier, this adored non-profit theatre company has done as much as anyone to help keep Chicago on the cultural map over the last 30 years. In short order the theatre has earned three Laurence Olivier Awards, as well as a regional Tony in 2008. Its main aim is to introduce people to the works of William Shakespeare, through school tours, summer plays in parks and productions at its own majestic venue, adding up to 600 performances a year."

"We know, it might seem like a stretch to include a theater—and Shakespeare, no less—on a kid’s map. But the Navy Pier’s Chicago Shakespeare Theater showcases a ton of kid-friendly performances, including shorter 75-minute abridged productions geared toward families and students. Check their website for the latest shows and schedules."

"With attractions as varied as the Chicago Children’s Museum and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater to a massive concert venue, you can practically spend the entire day here! One of the most popular attractions on Navy Pier is its iconic Ferris wheel, visible from many vantage points across the city."

"The current building was designed by Loebl, Schlossman and Bennett in 1957, although the Chicago Loop Synagogue was founded in 1929 for Jewish workers downtown and visitors. A must-see here is a wall of stained glass crafted by Abraham Rattner. Open Sunday, October 20, from noon to 5 p.m."