Pokémon is bringing its fossil exhibition to the United States in 2026

Pokémon Fossil Museum arrives in Chicago in May 2026, blending gaming lore with real paleo-history.

: Nintendo is set to open the Pokémon Fossil Museum at Chicago's Field Museum on May 22, 2026. This exhibition will showcase constructed Pokémon 'fossils' alongside genuine paleontological fossils, highlighting comparisons such as the Pokémon Tyrantrum with the real-life Tyrannosaurus rex. The initiative aims to celebrate the cultural phenomenon of Pokémon by integrating the fictional universe's history with real-world scientific exploration. With plans to eventually travel beyond Chicago, the exhibition also builds anticipation for the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A game scheduled for late 2025 release.

The Pokémon Fossil Museum, a collaborative exhibition by Japan's National Museum of Nature and Science and The Pokémon Company, is set to make its North American debut at Chicago's Field Museum on May 22, 2026. This marks the first time the exhibit will travel outside Japan, where it has been touring since 2021. The exhibition aims to blend the worlds of science and fantasy by juxtaposing real-world fossils with their Pokémon counterparts, offering visitors a unique educational experience .

Attendees can expect to see scientific casts of renowned fossils like SUE the T. rex and the Chicago Archaeopteryx displayed alongside fossil Pokémon such as Tyrantrum and Archeops. This side-by-side presentation encourages visitors to explore the similarities and differences between actual prehistoric creatures and their fictional representations, fostering a deeper interest in paleontology .

The exhibit features interactive elements designed to engage visitors of all ages. Characters like "Professor Fossil" and "Excavator Pikachu" guide guests through the displays, providing insights into fossil excavation and the ancient life forms that inspired various Pokémon. These elements aim to make the learning experience both fun and informative, particularly for younger audiences .

Given the popularity of previous Pokémon-themed events, it's anticipated that the Pokémon Fossil Museum will attract significant interest. While ticket sales have not yet commenced, the Field Museum recommends that interested individuals sign up for updates on their official website to stay informed about ticket availability and other announcements .

The Pokémon Fossil Museum represents a fusion of entertainment and education, using the widespread appeal of the Pokémon franchise to spark curiosity about natural history. By connecting beloved fictional creatures with real-world scientific concepts, the exhibition offers a novel approach to learning that could inspire future generations of scientists and enthusiasts alike .

Sources: Pokémon.com, Field Museum, Polygon, Planet Attractions, Block Club Chicago

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