Discover the connection between science and spies at 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond at Museum of Science and Industry. The museum’s new spy-themed exhibit reveals the science and technology behind the world’s longest-running movie franchise.
Quick details about 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond
- When: March 7, 2024-Oct. 27, 2024
- Address: Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
- Cost: This exhibit requires an additional ticket in addition to general admission
- 007 Tickets: $18/adults, $14/children 3-11, $9/members
- General admission: $25.95/adults, $14.95/kids 3-11, free for children 2 and under
- On a budget? Check out these free days at Chicagoland museums to see when you can visit for free.
- Getting there: The museum is accessible by the No. 2 and No. 6 CTA buses, and via the 57th Street Metra and South Shore train stations.
- Parking: There is a parking lot on site for $22.
The exhibit will analyze James Bond’s thrilling adventures through the lens of physics, chemistry, engineering and mathematics. Fans of the film franchise will be excited to learn how science made Bond’s gadgets and vehicles come to life on screen. The exhibit will feature some of the cars, gadgets and props that were used in the films, including a prototype jetpack from “Thunderball” and the modern Gravity Industries Jet Suit.
Hands-on activities throughout the exhibit will put your family’s spy skills to the test. At a lab space inspired by “Q” — the source of secret field technologies in the Bond movies — visitors can design the perfect spy vehicle, dangle from a steel beam and devise spectacular spy stunts.
During the exhibit’s run at MSI, the museum will offer new programs and events inspired by the Bond films. The event will allow guests of all ages to learn about spy craft, intelligence, encryption and more.
Ready for your family’s next mission? Check out these top secret tips for visiting 007 Science with kids.
Tips for visiting the Museum of Science and Industry with kids
- 007 Science will be open for exhibit-only evening hours on March 23, 24, 28 and April 5. The rest of the museum will be closed on these evenings. Tickets on these dates are $35/adult, $20/children 3-11 and $20/members.
- James Bond super fans can upgrade their visit with a branded lanyard pass and commemorative exhibit poster for an additional $10.
- Pack a lunch to enjoy at the food court or take advantage of the three dining options located on the museum’s campus. There’s Stan’s Donuts for coffee, sweets, soups, salads and sandwiches; a space-themed cafe for snacks; and the Museum Kitchen offering delicious seasonal menus.
- MSI offers a $3 coat check so you don’t have to lug all your layers or bags around the museum. Hang up the coats so you have your hands free to explore.
- Rental strollers are available for kiddos who need to get off their feet at $3 for single strollers and $5 for double strollers.
- A nursing room is available for parents who’d like a bit of privacy.
- There are all-gender restrooms on every floor and accessible stalls located in every restroom.
After your mission at 007 Science is complete, be sure to check out some of the other great exhibits for kids. See our family guide to Museum of Science and Industry for even more things to do with kids during your visit, or check out these exciting exhibits:
More things to do with kids at MSI
- Stand far apart from a friend in the Whisper Gallery and see if you can communicate using only quiet whispers. This sonic experiment is sure to amaze kids!
- Explore 2,200 miles of gorgeous scenery, condensed into 1,400 feet of model toy tracks. The Great Train Story is a must-see for any little train enthusiasts in your life. Adults will love spotting miniature versions of CTA, Amtrak and Metra trains as they travel through Chicago and the suburbs.
- See baby chicks and teach your little ones about how one tiny change in our DNA — or a chick’s DNA — can result in big physical changes.
- Not sure how to answer when your child asks why the sky is blue or where lightning comes from? Find all the answers at Science Storms, a two-level interactive exhibit that’s filled with fun science experiments that teach kids how weather works.
- A trip to MSI would not be complete without a visit to Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle. This original tiny house is the fairytale castle of children’s dreams, just on a miniature scale.
- Every kid loves making their own Mold-A-Rama souvenir! Learn about the history and making of these plastic novelties at Mold-A-Rama: Molded for the Future.
Other things to do nearby with kids
- Explore the Hyde Park neighborhood with our family guide that is full of suggestions on where to eat, play, shop and explore.
- Enjoy a scenic walk along Promontory Point, a peninsula with green spaces and campfire pits that offers gorgeous views of Lake Michigan, or take a stroll through the Japanese garden in Jackson Park.
- Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Frederick C. Robie House and take a self-guided tour.
- Browse the shelves at 57th Street Books and find a new read or bedtime story.
- Want to hit two museums in one day? Head to the nearby DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center or the Smart Museum of Art.
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