We all know we need to take care of our bodies with exercise and proper nutrition, but how often do you intentionally nourish and exercise your mind?
At Museum of Illusions Chicago (MOI), families can challenge their brains with mind-bending exhibits, illusions, games and puzzles. The museum’s “edutainment” approach blends learning about vision, perception, science and the human brain with exciting experiences the whole family can enjoy.
On Nov. 4, MOI will reveal its new expansion, which includes 20 never-before-seen exhibits and floor-to-ceiling installations that are sure to boggle your mind. While the expansion — which is 30% larger than the museum’s previous space — is sure to intrigue and amaze visitors, MOI hasn’t abandoned its popular exhibits. Fan favorites like the Vortex Tunnel and the Ames Room will still be on display.
Once you’ve had your mind blown by the new illusions, head to the Smart Playroom to compete in a battle of the brains with your family and friends. The room is filled with challenging brain teaser games and puzzles that challenge memory, cognition and problem-solving skills. Talk about a workout for your brain!
During your visit, you’ll have opportunities to take wacky photos that your followers on social media won’t be able to wrap their heads around. Snap photos of strange, symmetrical versions of yourself or capture an image of your family dangling from a traditional Chicago home. You can even take a photo while swapping body parts with a friend!
Staff will be on-site to explain the science behind each illusion, and to demonstrate how to snap the perfect social-media-worthy pic. Families should budget at least an hour to experience illusions, take photos and play mind-boggling games.
Quick Details about Museum of Illusions Chicago
- Reopens: Nov. 4
- Address: 25 E. Washington St., Chicago
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Cost: $28/adults 13+, $26/seniors 60+, $23/children 5-12, free for children 4 and under
- Getting there: The museum is within walking distance from the Washington blue line stop, the Lake red line stop and the State/Lake brown, green, pink, purple and orange line stop.
- Parking: MOI guests can park at Randolph Wabash Self-Park Garage and Millennium Garages at a discounted rate. Book parking online or ask staff for parking validation.
Other things to do with kids in downtown Chicago
- Find skyline views, public art, yummy bites and more on the Chicago Riverwalk. Get our tips on what to see, eat and explore with kids in our family Riverwalk guide.
- Visit the Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago or one of these other must-see museums for Chicagoland families.
- Play at Maggie Daley Park. The creative city park has a climbing wall, mini golf and a 3-acre playground with slides, swings, water and spray features, bridges, climbing structures and more.
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