Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) | Chicago

The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) in Chicago is one of the most prominent and expansive science museums in the world. It is a landmark institution for hands-on, interactive exhibits that explore science, technology, engineering, and innovation across a wide array of topics. Here is a comprehensive overview:

Overview and History

Established: 1933, as part of the Century of Progress Exposition.

Location: 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60637.

Building: Housed in the historic Palace of Fine Arts, the only major building remaining from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.

Renamed: In 2024, it became the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry after a major donation from the Kenneth C. Griffin Charitable Fund.

Permanent Exhibits (Selected Highlights)

1. U-505 Submarine

A German U-boat captured during WWII, now housed in a custom-built underground exhibit.

Includes multimedia storytelling and a walk-through tour of the submarine.

Accompanied by exhibits on naval history, coding, and wartime strategy.

2. Coal Mine

One of the museum’s original and most beloved experiences.

Visitors descend into a replica coal mine in an elevator and explore the environment, machinery, and working conditions underground.

Guided by a live interpreter with immersive sound and lighting.

3. Science Storms

A 26,000-square-foot exhibit exploring the science behind natural phenomena.

Features a 40-foot tornado, Tesla coil lightning, avalanches, fire, tsunamis, and more.

Encourages experimentation with real-world scientific principles.

4. The Great Train Story

A massive, 3,500-square-foot model railroad.

Follows a miniature journey from Seattle to Chicago.

Detailed cityscapes, landscapes, and moving trains fascinate kids and model enthusiasts alike.

5. Numbers in Nature: A Mirror Maze

Focuses on mathematical patterns in the natural world.

Includes a giant mirror maze based on fractals and symmetry.

Explores spirals, the golden ratio, tessellations, and more.

6. YOU! The Experience

A modern exhibit about the human body and mind.

Combines interactive displays on anatomy, psychology, genetics, and health.

Includes a 13-foot tall human heart and motion tracking technology.

7. Henry Crown Space Center

Space exploration-themed area.

Displays spacecraft including the Apollo 8 Command Module and Aurora 7.

Simulators and hands-on exhibits on rockets, satellites, and life in space.

8. Transportation Gallery

Features historic aircraft and vehicles.

Includes a full-size 727 plane suspended from the ceiling.

Also features vintage cars and steam engines.

9. ToyMaker 3000

A working factory exhibit where visitors see yo-yos being made from start to finish.

Introduces concepts like robotics, mass production, and automation.

Temporary and Rotating Exhibits

MSI frequently hosts temporary exhibitions from around the world. Topics vary from digital art and robotics to historical inventions and cinematic science fiction. These often require a separate ticket or timed entry.

Visitor Experience

Facilities

Dining: Brain Food Court, Museum Café, and Finnigan’s Ice Cream Parlor.

Shops: Multiple gift shops selling science kits, toys, books, and branded merchandise.

Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible, strollers available, sensory-friendly options on select days.

Events and Programs

MSI hosts family science nights, school field trips, summer camps, and adult-only events like MSI After Hours.

Special programs like Science Works connect students with real scientists and engineers.

Education and Outreach

Extensive educational programs, including virtual learning.

Onsite Fab Lab allows for 3D printing, laser cutting, and other maker activities.

STEM learning for underrepresented communities is a major focus.

Visitor Information

Hours: Usually open daily from 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (subject to change on holidays or special events).

Tickets:

General admission + additional tickets for premium exhibits like the U-505 on-board tour or mirror maze.

Discounts for Chicago residents, seniors, students, and military members.

Parking: Underground garage onsite (paid).

Public Transit: Accessible via Metra, CTA buses, and Divvy bike stations nearby.

Significance

MSI is not only a top tourist attraction but also an educational leader in science communication. It blends historical artifacts with futuristic technologies, offering visitors an unmatched experience in exploring how science shapes our lives.

It's often considered a must-visit, especially for families and anyone interested in a deeply engaging and tactile science museum experience.