Originally built as the Palace of Fine Arts for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exhibition, today the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. The museum contains 13 learning labs, 35,000 artifacts, a baby chicken hatchery, nine permanent exhibits that attract visitors from around the world and much more.
With more than 400,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, the Museum of Science and Industry is the go-to place for learning about the science that occurs around us every day — especially for toddlers and young children who are in their “why?” phase.
Ready to learn and play at MSI? Check out these helpful tips and ideas for exploring the museum with kids.
This article was updated on Nov. 14, 2024, by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. This guide now includes updating the name for Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, additional resources and a reorganized layout for easier reading. For any questions, reach out to Katina at katina@chicagoparent.com.
What you need to know about Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
- Address: 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
- Cost: $25.95/adults, $14.95/kids 3-11, free for children 2 and under. Some exhibits require an additional ticket. 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 #2 and #6 CTA buses, and via the 57th Street Metra and South Shore train stations.
- Parking: There is a parking lot on site for $22.
Best things to do with kids at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
- Whisper across the room in the Whisper Gallery. 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!
- See all the trains. 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.
- Go underground and explore a true-to-life coal mine. Fun fact: The Coal Mine was MSI’s first exhibit!
- Greet the 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.
- Learn about the weather. 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.
- Tour a real German U-505 submarine captured in World War II and brought back to Chicago. Viewing the U-boat is included in general admission, but tours require an extra ticket.
- Marvel over fairy castles. 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.
- Experiment and play in The Idea Factory. Young scientists ages 10 and under can explore this hands-on lab, featuring 3,000 gallons of water for exciting tests and a massive Water Spectacle, plus interactive experiments with air pressure, light, magnetism and more.
Tips for families when visiting
- Buy tickets online. Purchase tickets online and skip the long admission lines.
- Plan your meals with options for every taste! 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.
- Check in your coats. MSI offers a $3 coat check so you don’t have to lug all your layers or bags around the museum.
- Strollers are available for tired kiddos. Rental strollers are available for kiddos who need to get off their feet, ($3 single strollers, $5 double strollers). Guests may bring their own strollers, too.
- Take advantage of the nursing room for privacy. A designated nursing room is available for parents who want a quiet, private space. It’s located at the Idea Factory on Lower Level 1.
- Where are the restrooms? There are all-gender restrooms on every floor, and accessible stalls located in every restroom.
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