Elgin Public Museum

Small museum of natural history and (a little) anthropology. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, it is open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons.

Some of the exhibits are really showing their age. The "stuffed" animals and birds are an example. Lighting isn't ideal in several areas, which makes it tough to see the feather and fur colors.

That said, several exhibits are much more updated. We appreciated the large colorful mural on the second floor showing currently endangered native Illinois species, for example. Also some nice exhibits on tree species found in Lords Park and on local ecology (including habitats at risk for egrets, sandhill cranes, and black-crowned night herons).

We had good chuckles from the contemporary art on the first floor. Many of the pieces are quite whimsical and entertaining. Worth the price of admission just for the art!

Museum volunteer was friendly and helpful. All in all, a fun and educational visit for a great price.