A green chameleon with blue stripes and a red eye clings to a branch

Now Open!

Reptiles Alive!

Explore the fascinating world of live reptiles, from slithering snakes to loveable lizards, with hands-on activities and incredible science for the whole family.

Floor 1 | Main

Requires Add-On Ticket

Closes Apr 5, 2026

All ages

Explore the fascinating world of reptiles in this one-of-a-kind family-friendly exhibition! Combining original Field Museum science with live animals and engaging interactives, Reptiles Alive! offers an immersive experience into the lives of snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and more. Discover their habitats, adaptations, and the groundbreaking research of Dr. Sara Ruane. From June 20, 2025—April 5, 2026!

Exhibition Highlights

Witness 20 live reptiles, including a baby alligator, spitting cobra, legless lizard, and emerald tree boa, housed in captivating enclosures.

Learn how reptiles move, find food, and escape predators through touchable models and hands-on activities.

Videos and immersive multimedia provide deeper insights into the world of reptiles.

Get up close to skeletons, wet specimens, and artifacts from the Museum’s collections.

Our Staff

Sara Ruane

Associate Curator of Herpetology, Director of Core Laboratories

Negaunee Integrative Research Center

A women in a green tank top and boots, holding a garden hoe

Chun Kamei

Collections Manager, Herpetology

Gantz Family Collections Center

Events

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22

Saturday, November 22

9:30 AM CST to Nov 22, 12:00 PM

Itty Bitty Investigators: Reptiles Ages 5-6

03

Tuesday, March 3

5:00 PM CST to Mar 3, 9:00 PM

After 5 at the Field

03

Tuesday, February 3

5:00 PM CST to Feb 3, 9:00 PM

After 5 at the Field

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Explore more

A young woman wearing a white lab coat and blue rubber gloves leans on a table and into a piece of lab equipment.

The Changing Face of Science: Lynika Strozier

A woman standing in front of a graphic display in a museum exhibit

The Changing Face of Science: Ylanda Wilhite

An large colorful chameleon perched on a branch

New exhibition journeys through the world of reptiles, while uncovering their extraordinary adaptations

Herpetologist’s Journey

Follow the adventures of Dr. Sara Ruane, from Illinois to Madagascar, and see her discoveries brought to life. Check out The Changing Face of Science, now open on the upper level.

See exhibition