Visiting SUE the T. rex: What to Know Before You Go

SUE can’t wait to eat, er, meet you.

First, a message straight from SUE:

My new private suite opened to great acclaim, fanfare, and ham in December 2018. If you haven’t seen it yet, come on over. If you’ve already visited and lived to tell the tale, that means you’re spared from the coming theropod uprising and I welcome your return anytime. 

To ensure your visit with me is the best it can be, I've asked the staff to write up some tips and hints. I look forward to being the highlight of your year.

How to see SUE

SUE’s permanent home in the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet is included with Basic admission or All-Access Pass.

SUE and Evolving Planet are also included on free admission days for Illinois residents. Discounted passes are available in person or online. 

If you’re planning to visit during the holiday season, we suggest buying tickets online in advance to guarantee your desired date and time. We’re open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas, December 25.

Explore ticket options

Finding SUE’s suite

You’ll find SUE inside Evolving Planet on our upper level. Keep an eye out for SUE in the Flesh at the entrance to the exhibition.

If you’re in our main Stanley Field Hall, follow the flying pterosaurs up the northeast stairs to the entrance of Evolving Planet. Or, look for the east elevators on any floor. Museum staff and volunteers are available to talk all things SUE and show you the way.

Inside the exhibition

SUE’s the same snarky, ham-loving dinosaur you know and love, just bigger and better. Our scientists and other researchers have been studying this unique specimen over the last 20 years since SUE first arrived at the Field. SUE’s skeleton now reflects the latest in Tyrannosaurus rex science, with the addition of rib-like gastralia bones and other updates. Watch the can’t-miss light show that points out key details on SUE’s bones. 

In addition to the fossil itself—the most complete T. rex skeleton discovered—the exhibition space is a snapshot of life 67 million years ago. Step into a Late Cretaceous forest and see what other creatures lived alongside SUE, then watch animations showing T. rex in motion. Through sensing stations, get a real feel for how this predator sounded, felt, and even how its breath smelled (if you're feeling brave).

SUE’s gallery is presented in both English and Spanish. La galería de SUE está presentada en inglés y en español.

Photos encouraged

SUE welcomes photography of their glorious new look and home, especially ones that tag @SUEtheTrex on Twitter or @fieldmuseum on Instagram.

Please note that we only allow photography for personal, non-commercial use.

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Getting to the Museum

You can reach the Museum by public transit or car. Be sure to check parking rates, which are subject to change based on special events happening on Museum Campus.

More on getting here and parking.

Accessible parking and entrance

There’s paid, wheelchair-accessible parking in the East Museum Lot. Be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. Then, enter through our accessible East Entrance.

Find more details about accessibility at the Field.

Have extra time?

With almost 40 million artifacts and specimens under one roof, you could say there’s a lot to do here. If you have time to spare, these are just a few of your options:

Curious about a particular topic? Be sure to swing by the information desk in Stanley Field Hall for recommendations.

Other questions about planning your visit? Call us at 312.922.9410 or send us a message.