Illinois has always been a world-renowned center for culture and the arts. While we are proud of all our museums and the fantastic job they do in providing fun-filled educational activities for the whole family, a number of high-profile exhibitions make this spring and summer the perfect time to showcase Illinois’ wealth of quality museum experiences.

Few events are more anticipated than the blockbuster exhibit Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs, on display at Chicago’s Field Museum May 26-Jan. 1, 2007. This spectacular new King Tut exhibit showcases Egyptian treasures—many of which have never traveled outside of Egypt before—that portray the splendors of the era. The Golden Age of the Pharaohs produced some of Egypt's most famous rulers and exquisite works of art. Using modern CT scanning technology, a special section of the exhibition explores the mysterious death of the "boy king" and features a realistic bust that lets visitors gaze into the face of the young pharaoh for the first time.

Also in Chicago, Leonardo da Vinci: Man, Inventor, Genius opened in April at the Museum of Science and Industry and will run through Sept. 4. Although Leonardo is a legend for art masterpieces such as the beloved Mona Lisa, he was also a prolific scientist and inventor. The exhibit presents more than 60 large-scale models of his most innovative designs, all produced in vivid detail from his original drawings. The exhibit also tells the story of the life of Leonardo through a dramatic film, and shows modern-day examples of technology inspired by his work.

And of course, inspiring cultural exhibitions are not limited to the city. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield presents the fascinating exhibit, Mrs. President: From Martha to Laura, from May 13 through October 29, examining the role of America's first ladies throughout history. Gorgeous gowns, historical artifacts and intimate letters will tell the stories of these amazing, influential women. Mrs. President is unique to the ALPLM and will not travel to other museums making an even more compelling case to head to the capital city and take a glimpse into the rich lives of these interesting and often complex women.

Finally, I’m pleased to inform you that our 2006 Illinois Road Show will be held from June 5-8 with stops in Chicago, Rockford, the Quad Cities, Peoria, Springfield and Carbondale. These statewide press conferences will be a great chance to illustrate the unity and strength of Illinois’ tourism industry, which will be emphasized with this year’s theme, “The Power of One.” We hope to see you at one of the stops.

Sincerely,