A Journey Through Time And Imagination: The Pokémon Fossil Museum Is Coming To America In 2026

The Pokémon Fossil Museum opened in Japan in 2021 and now the exhibition is making its debut outside Asia: From May 22, 2026, the Field Museum in Chicago will open its doors to fans, dinosaur enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience Pokémon from a completely different perspective.

Pokemon Museum
Fantasy and science come together at the Pokémon Fossil Museum, where lifelike Pokémon skeleton models stand alongside real dinosaur fossils © animenomics

The Pokémon Fossil Museum opened in Japan in 2021 and now the exhibition is making its debut outside Asia: From May 22, 2026, the Field Museum in Chicago will open its doors to fans, dinosaur enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience Pokémon from a completely different perspective.

The exhibition combines fictional Pokémon fossils with real fossils of prehistoric animals. For example, you can see the “skeleton” of the Pokémon Monargoras right next to the real skeleton of the Tyrannosaurus rex, an exciting comparison that shows how much Pokémon design was inspired by real nature. There are also models of Pokémon such as Aeropteryx, Amonitas, Kabutops, and Amagarga, each with their fossil “counterparts” for direct comparison.

From Japan To Chicago – A Journey Full Of History

The museum was originally created in collaboration between the Japanese National Museum of Nature and Science and The Pokémon Company. Since 2021, the exhibition has been touring various museums in Japan. Now it is venturing into North America, with the Field Museum as its first destination outside Japan. Admission to the special exhibition is in addition to the museum admission fee. At the Field Museum, the price is expected to be moderate, with possible discounted days for local visitors.

A Visit That Is Well Worth Your While

The Pokémon Fossil Museum appeals to nostalgics, science enthusiasts, and families alike. Fans get the chance to see Pokémon in a whole new light, as fictional animals with anatomical references. Those interested in the past can discover real fossils alongside imaginative creatures, experiencing the connection between the game world and real evolution. It's ideal for anyone who enjoys both Pokémon and natural history.

The Pokémon Fossil Museum is more than just a fan exhibition; it is a bridge between fantasy and science, between childhood memories and real earth history. If you are near Chicago in 2026, it is definitely worth a visit.

What do you think? Worth a trip to Chicago? Let us know in the comments!

Max Jentsch

Max is a huge fan of gaming, streaming, eSports, and everything pop culture has to offer. His passion began in childhood with Pokémon and now extends to games such as League of Legends, Clash Royale, and other eSports titles....