Summary: The Pokémon Fossil Museum is coming to Chicago’s Field Museum in May 2026, blending real paleontology with the Pokémon universe. Visitors can explore fossil Pokémon alongside real dino skeletons, enjoy interactive displays, and even join Pokémon GO events. A unique mix of science and fandom!
Dinosaur fossils and fossil Pokémon will be shown side by side when the Pokémon Fossil Museum lands at Chicago’s Field Museum in May 2026.
The Pokémon Fossil Museum is a traveling exhibition that has been on display in Japan since 2021 and will make its US debut in May 2026 at the Field Museum in Chicago. This unique exhibit combines the world of Pokémon with real paleontology, allowing visitors to discover the similarities between fossil Pokémon and real prehistoric creatures.
What is the Pokémon Fossil Museum?
The exhibition is a collaboration between Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science and The Pokémon Company. Visitors can admire life-sized skeletons of fossil Pokémon such as Tyrantrum and Bastiodon, alongside real dinosaur fossils like the famous SUE the T. rex. (polygon.com) The goal is to combine education and entertainment by drawing parallels between the fictional Pokémon world and actual scientific discoveries.
Highlights of the Exhibition
- Interactive experiences: Visitors are guided by “Pokémon Professors” and can take photos with Excavator Pikachu, a mascot specially designed for this exhibition.
- Fossil comparisons: The exhibit shows how fossil Pokémon were inspired by real prehistoric animals, such as the comparison between Archeops and the Archaeopteryx.
- Educational content: Visitors learn about fossil excavations and paleontology, with information available in multiple languages via smartphones.
Pokémon GO Collaboration
During the exhibition at the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum in Japan (March-May 2025), there was a collaboration with Pokémon GO, where fossil Pokémon like Omanyte, Kabuto, and Tyrunt appeared more frequently around the museum. (pokemonblog.com) Special PokéStops and stickers were also available for players.
Practical Information
- Location: Field Museum, Chicago
- Opening: May 22, 2026
- Tickets: Not yet available; interested visitors can sign up for updates via the Field Museum’s website.
