Illinois Military History Museums
- Air Classics Museum of Aviation - Sugar Grove
- Air Combat Museum - Springfield
- Apple River Fort - Elizabeth
- Camp Grant (Illinois) - Winnebago County
- Fort de Chartres - Prairie du Rocher
- Fort Massac - Metropolis
- German submarine U-505 - Chicago
- Greater Saint Louis Air & Space Museum - Cahokia
- Heritage in Flight Museum - Lincoln
- Illinois Aviation Museum at Bolingbrook - Bolingbrook
- Midway Village Museum - Rockford
- National Museum of the American Sailor - North Chicago
- National Veterans Art Museum - Chicago
- Poplar Grove Wings & Wheels - Poplar Grove
- Prairie Aviation Museum - Bloomington
- Pritzker Military Museum & Library - Chicago
- Roberts Armory - Rochelle
- Rock Island Arsenal Museum - Rock Island
- Russell Military Museum - Russell
Illinois Military History Museums Directory
If you're looking for an out-of-this-world adventure, head to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago and explore the U-505 submarine! On board this WWII German submarine, you can experience what life was like for those who served on these vessels during World War II. Take a self-guided tour through the cramped quarters of the sub and explore interactive displays such as the sound room, which allows you to listen to submarine sounds from the past. You can also learn about its history and mission as one of the most successful submarines of all time. So come down to Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry for your chance to dive into WWII history with a visit to U-505!
The Midway Village Museum in Rockford, Illinois is an interactive educational museum that celebrates the culture and history of the region. It offers a wide variety of exhibits and activities, including a full-size replica of a 19th century village, living historians dressed in period costumes who share stories and demonstrate Victorian era skills, restored historic homes, a railroad museum with vintage trains, interactive displays on all aspects of regional history including Native American civilization and the impact of WWII on the area. The museum also hosts regular events such as Civil War reenactments, music festivals, craft fairs and lectures. Visitors can explore the historic grounds while learning about the past from knowledgeable staff members. The museum is open year round for visitors to enjoy.