The "Pokémon Fossil Museum" touring exhibition, which caused a sensation in Japan, has officially made its way to North America! The international premiere, jointly curated by the National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan), The Pokémon Company, and Chicago's renowned Field Museum, officially opens on May 22, 2026.
This is not only a scientific feast combining paleontology with the world of Pokémon, but also a pilgrimage for Pokémon GO players—because the "Diglett Pikachu" wearing an explorer's hat will make its debut at this event! 
Exhibition Highlights: When Pokémon Meet Real Ancient Organisms
This exhibition is not merely a display of Pokémon merchandise; it centers on "observation and comparison," guiding visitors into a cross-dimensional scientific exploration:
- Comparison of Real and Fictional Fossils: The exhibition cleverly displays skeletal models of "Fossil Pokémon" from the Pokémon world (such as Omanyte and Tyrantrum) alongside fossils of the ancient creatures that inspired them in the real world.
- Chicago Exclusive Exhibits: At the Field Museum, visitors can make a fantastical direct comparison between Pokémon fossils and the museum's world-famous real T-Rex fossil, "SUE," as well as the precious "Chicago Archaeopteryx" specimen—an exclusive experience not replicable at the Japanese touring stops.
- Professor Fossil and Pikachu Guided Tour: Illustrations and videos featuring "Professor Fossil" and a special "Diglett Pikachu" (wearing an explorer's hat and holding digging tools) will guide visitors through an accessible explanation of how fossils are formed and the daily work of real paleontologists.
Pokémon GO Exclusive Collaboration: Diglett Pikachu's Debut
To celebrate the exhibition's opening, Pokémon GO has launched exclusive in-game content tied to exploring the museum. Please note: The following in-game bonuses and activities are limited to the Field Museum area and are only available during museum operating hours.
Exclusive Event Gameplay and Bonuses
- First Appearance: Complete collaborative-themed "Timed Research" and "Field Research" to encounter "Diglett Pikachu" (wearing an explorer's hat and gear) (if you're lucky, you might even encounter a Shiny version!).
- Limited Raids: Exclusive raids featuring "Diglett Pikachu" and "Mega Aerodactyl" will appear at Gyms around the museum.
- Wild Fossil Frenzy: Various Fossil Pokémon will appear in large numbers in the wild around the museum.
- Exclusive Souvenirs: Spin PokéStops inside the museum to receive exclusive event-themed Gift Stickers.
- Surprise Snapshot: Take GO Snapshot photos for a chance of a mysterious Pokémon photobombing for a surprise.
- Collector Challenge: A special themed Collector Challenge will be available during the event, testing trainers' catching skills.
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Exhibition and Visit Details
If you're planning a trip to Chicago or preparing for the upcoming Pokémon GO Fest 2026, we highly recommend adding this exhibition to your itinerary.
Information Item Details Exhibition Name Pokémon Fossil Museum Exhibition Dates May 22, 2026 to April 11, 2027 Location Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois, USA Operating Hours 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (CDT), last entry at 4:00 PM Visit Format Timed-entry, recommended visit duration approximately 30 to 45 minutes Ticket Recommendation Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it is highly recommended to purchase online in advance through the Field Museum's official website to avoid disappointment. It is also advised to arrive 30 minutes before your entry time.