Oriental Institute Museum, Chicago

The Oriental Institute Museum allows you to travel to distant and ancient civilizations without leaving Chicago. Part of the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, the Institute Museum features outstanding anthropological and archaeological exhibits about the early human civilizations that developed in the East. Visitors can reflect on man's accomplishments as they examine rare artifacts from historic nations including Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Mesopotamia, Iran and Palestine. Afterwards, browse the "Suq" (Arabic for "market") for Eastern finds and unusual gifts. A free film series showcases the ancient East, at 2p Sundays in Oriental Institute Breasted Hall. Guided group tours and workshops are available. Photography is permitted in the museum and galleries. Photographs can also be ordered from the photographic archives. Admission is free.