CHICAGO — A pop-up bar showcasing rare Field Museum's specimens will open at the Chicago Athletic Association this weekend.
Beginning Feb. 25, The Backroom will take over in the hotel's ground floor space at12 S. Michigan Ave. from 5 p.m. - 12 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays through March 25.
Last year, the hotel hosted the nautical-themed Cherry Circle Yacht Club in this space. This year's pop-up will delve into the Field Museum's collections in a partnership with "Specimens: Unlocking the Secrets of Life," which opens at the museum March 10.
It will be the first time guests will be able to see the specimens off museum grounds, according to a release.
The exhibit features 30 million specimens, from sea snakes to meteorites, that have for years been tucked away in glass jars, bins, cabinets and wooden drawers. Among them is a "long extinct" minnow in a glass jar — "the last remaining scientific record of its kind," according to the release.
It will also feature "interactive programming" from museum professionals each night on topics ranging from space to taxidermy, the release said. For the schedule of programming click here.
The bar will feature drinks from Land & Sea Dept. Beverage Director Paul McGee and offer late-night programming like DJ sets, trivia and karaoke following the workshops.
The concept was brought together by the Chicago Athletic Association, the Field Museum, Johalla Projects and Land and Sea Department.
