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The Pokémon Fossil Museum is traveling outside Japan for the first time as it comes to Chicago in May 2026
See fossils from the fictional Pokémon world next to the iconic Sue the T-Rex in one of the most unique museum displays on the planet.
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When we were first playing Pokémon Red back in the day (we’re old – don’t judge us), we were fascinated by the prospect of Pokémon fossils. The idea that these creatures weren’t just living animals but things that had existed for millions of years – long enough to leave a fossil record, even – added a whole new depth to the Pokémon world. Well, next year you can look at Pokémon fossils next to real-world fossils at Chicago’s Field Museum.
The Pokémon Fossil Museum is traveling to North America for the first time in May 2026, bringing fossils of ancient Pokémon like Aerodactyl or Tyrantrum to the famous museum. The idea is to bring new excitement for fossils and ancient animals by displaying Pokémon fossils beside Sue the T-Rex and the iconic Archaeopteryx fossil at the Field Museum. There are plenty of differences (and similarities) between the fictional creatures and the dinosaurs and prehistoric animals that inspired them, bridging the gap between the long-running video game series and real life.
This is the first time that the Pokémon Fossil Museum has been outside Japan before, which makes it the best time for American trainers to see some of the most elusive Pokémon in history. The Pokémon Fossil Museum opens at the Field Museum in Chicago on May 22, 2026 and will require a separate ticket to enter the exhibition. Considering that Pokémon continues to be a cultural force unlike any other nearly 30 years after the first game came out, we don’t doubt that the Pokémon Fossil Museum will sell out quickly when it lands in Chicago.
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