Museum Campus Organizations Announce Plan-A-Visit Information For NASCAR Chicago Race Weekend And Shoulder Days
Header Image: Museum Campus in the fall at sunset. Image Credit: @nickcrvwford
In response to final plans released by City and event organizers for the 2023 NASCAR Chicago Street Race, Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum are sharing updates to assist guests in how to plan a visit and access Museum Campus before, during and immediately following the event weekend.
Please note that operational updates are subject to change. Visit each institution’s website for the latest information on how to plan a visit.
With thousands of participants and spectators along the route, as well as street closures prior and during the race, those traveling downtown and from the surrounding neighborhoods should allow extra time, expect delays, or consider alternate routes to avoid the impacts of the race.
If You Are Driving…
From the south: Use northbound DuSable Lake Shore Drive and exit at 18th Street, Walden Drive or McFetridge Drive.
From the north: Access I-55 between 24th and 25th and State Street, then proceed to northbound DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Exit at 18th Street, Walden Drive or McFetridge Drive.
Parking lots will be open and fully accessible to Museum Campus guests as normal.
If You Are Taking Public Transportation…
From CTA: Buses and trains will have alternate schedules during this period. When utilizing the exit at the Roosevelt Road/Museum Campus train station, transfer to a shuttle bus that will take you to Museum Campus. Shuttles will run every 15 minutes. This will replace the regular #146 bus to Museum Campus.
From Metra: CTA’s #130 bus will operate between Union/Ogilvie stations and Museum Campus.
If You Are Walking Or Biking…
Pedestrian access will be available via the Columbus Drive Underpass and Lakefront Trail.
For a full list of street closures, as well as ways to access Museum Campus by car, by public transit or by foot – NASCAR has developed a landing page that can be viewed here.
Adler Planetarium • 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
The Adler will be open regular business hours daily from 9:00 am–4:00 pm (last entry at 3:00 pm), except Wednesdays when it is open from 4:00 pm–10:00 pm, with free admission for all Illinois residents with ID.
Shedd Aquarium • 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
Due to several varying impacts, Shedd Aquarium has adjusted its hours of operation between Thursday, June 29 and Monday, July 3 to accommodate guests, staff, partners and volunteers and to ensure delivery of the best experience possible. Adjustments include:
- Thursday, June 29: 10:00 am–4:00 pm (last entry at 2:00 pm)
- Friday, June 30: 10:00 am–4:00 pm (last entry at 2:00 pm)
- Saturday, July 1: CLOSED
- Sunday, July 2: CLOSED
- Monday, July 3: 10:00 am–4:00 pm (last entry at 2:00 pm)
Shedd will return to normal operating hours for the July 4 Independence Day holiday, open to guests from 9:00 am–6:00 pm. Check out the Shedd’s website for more information on how to buy tickets in advance or plan your visit.
Field Museum • 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
The Field Museum will be open regular business hours daily from 9:00 am–5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm), except during the NASCAR event on July 1st and July 2nd. They are adjusting our operating hours on race days to accommodate our staff, visitors, and guests and to ensure a positive visitor experience.
- Thursday, June 29: 9:00 am–5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm)
- Friday, June 30: 9:00 am–5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm)
- Saturday, July 1: 10:00 am–4:00 pm (last entry at 3:00 pm) Free for Illinois residents
- Sunday, July 2: 10:00 am–4:00 pm (last entry at 3:00 pm) Free for Illinois residents
