Museum of Science and Industry
A sprawling, hands-on museum exploring science, technology, and industry with iconic historical exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Museum of Science and Industry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling, hands-on museum exploring science, technology, and industry with iconic historical exhibits.
"A must-visit for families and history buffs, offering a blend of interactive learning and iconic artifacts."
⏳ Allocate Ample Time
This museum is huge! Plan for 3-5 hours to truly explore.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider booking tickets in advance to save time, especially on busy days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
U-505 Submarine
History Exhibits
Step aboard a captured German U-boat from WWII. A truly immersive historical experience.
Christmas Around the World
Main Hall
A dazzling display of holiday trees and traditions from various cultures during the festive season.
The Blue Paradox
Special Exhibit Hall
An immersive exhibit exploring the impact of plastic pollution on our oceans.
+1
Colleen Moore Fairy Castle
Main Hall
A meticulously crafted miniature castle, a whimsical and detailed work of art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Time & Tickets
Accessibility & Discounts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allocate Ample Time
This museum is huge! Plan for 3-5 hours to truly explore.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider booking tickets in advance to save time, especially on busy days.
♿ Accessibility Program
Qualifying low-income visitors can get free admission via 'Museums for All'.
🧸 Toddler Play Area
A dedicated play area on the 2nd floor is great for little ones.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allocate Ample Time
This museum is huge! Plan for 3-5 hours to truly explore.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider booking tickets in advance to save time, especially on busy days.
♿ Accessibility Program
Qualifying low-income visitors can get free admission via 'Museums for All'.
🧸 Toddler Play Area
A dedicated play area on the 2nd floor is great for little ones.
📸 Charge Your Phone
Bring a portable charger; you'll want to capture many moments!
🚌 Consider Public Transit
Taking the bus can be a hassle-free alternative to parking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museum of Science and Industry for its vast array of engaging and historic exhibits, particularly the U-505 submarine and the Christmas Around the World display. Many appreciate the interactive nature of the science exhibits and the dedicated toddler area. However, some note that a number of interactive displays are not well-maintained or are broken, and the museum's security measures are considered outdated by some.
"I have many fond memories of the museum of science and industry from when I was little. Now I take my 3 year old here. They redid the science exhibit and it is much better with new displays that are taken care of. The entrance is grand and welcoming. They still have lots of interactive activities to learn about the different areas of science. The only downside is not everything is so well taken care of. Many exhibits don't work and the ones that do aren't necessarily for younger kids. They do have a little kids area for younger kids, but you have to reserve a time to go. You can't just pop in... and they are a bit run down and worse for wear. I do love their Christmas trees around the world display. We did go on a weekday when I was on winter break. There was no line to get in at 12pm. I have gone on a weekend in the morning and there is a longer line, but we never waited more than 5 minutes to get our tickets. Sometimes it is easier to get tickets online and they may offer some discounts (not sure I never did it), but it definitely isn't necessary if you are coming on a whim."
Emily Rezek
"Large museum, plan at least 3-5 hours if you intend to interact with and read all of the exhibits.
This museum really shines in its history exhibits, the U-boat is a must-see for history fans and walking around the 727 airplane is also really cool.
Many of their earth science exhibits are neat, but if you’ve been to another science museum you’ve probably seen all of them before. It seemed like around 20-30% of the interactive exhibits were broken depending on the wing of the museum, which definitely dampened the fun. The aerospace exhibit could also use some fleshing out, we saw the whole thing in a few minutes.
Overall an interesting experience for a tourist, repeat visits probably aren’t going to be very interesting."
Eric Dale
"Review written 09/01/2025.
Pros:
-Cool museum with interesting and historic items
-they are part of the “museums for all”program so they have free admission for qualifying people who are low income etc
-Lots of benches to take breaks when walking around the massive museum
-they had an information desk in main area
Cons:
-Although they list prohibited 🚫 items on website , they don’t check your bags at all and there’s no metal detectors etc. This seems pretty outdated considering there were 35 shootings this weekend in Chicago.
I would likely not go to this museum again until basic safety standards like that are enforced.
-I feel like they should have had some kind of a big posted notice or overhead announcement before the lightning strike Tesla coil bc that could prob make some people have a panic attack or even like a heart attack and who knows how it would affect people who get seizures etc.
Like suddenly u walk through museum and u hear extremely loud unknown sounds of like literal lightning crackling above u indoors… not exactly a calming experience if u don’t know it’s coming lol
-A lot of displays were “closed for maintenance”
-i recommend more usb charging ports like by dining tables for modernization to charge phones since there are so many things to take photos of"
C R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637. Many visitors find taking public transportation, like the bus, to be a convenient option, avoiding parking hassles. Driving is also an option, but parking availability and cost should be considered.
Yes, the museum has a parking area. However, it can be costly, and taking public transit is often recommended as a more budget-friendly and convenient alternative.
Several bus routes serve the Museum of Science and Industry. Checking the official CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) website for the most current routes and schedules is advised.
The museum is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available. For specific needs, it's best to contact the museum directly.
While the museum has a cafe, policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's recommended to check the museum's official website for their current policy before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Museum of Science and Industry website for the most up-to-date pricing. Booking online may offer slight discounts.
Yes, the museum participates in the 'Museums for All' program, offering free admission to qualifying EBT and WIC cardholders. Military and student discounts may also be available.
While not always necessary, booking tickets online in advance can save time, especially during peak hours or weekends. Some special exhibits, like 'The Blue Paradox', may require separate timed reservations.
Museum hours can vary seasonally and on holidays. It's essential to check the official MSI Chicago website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Yes, the Museum of Science and Industry participates in the 'Museums for All' initiative, providing free admission to individuals with EBT or WIC cards.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the historic U-505 submarine, the impressive 'Christmas Around the World' display (seasonal), and the immersive 'Blue Paradox' exhibit. +1 The Colleen Moore Fairy Castle is also a unique attraction.
Absolutely! The museum offers numerous interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. There's a dedicated toddler play area on the second floor, and many exhibits are designed for hands-on learning.
To fully experience the museum and interact with exhibits, plan for at least 3 to 5 hours. Some visitors may even spend a full day.
Some visitors have noted that a percentage of interactive exhibits may be closed for maintenance or are not working. It's advisable to manage expectations and focus on the exhibits that are operational.
The Idea Factory is a free exhibit with admission that requires a time reservation. It features hands-on exploration of simple machines, light, magnets, air pressure, and water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a large cafe that serves both hot and cold food options.
Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website for their current guidelines.
The cafe offers a variety of options, including hot meals and cold snacks, catering to different tastes.
While the museum has its own cafe, there are also dining establishments in the surrounding areas of Chicago.
Pricing at museum cafes can vary. It's advisable to check menus or inquire at the cafe for current pricing information.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed in most areas of the museum for non-commercial use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibits.
The grand entrance hall, the U-505 submarine, the 'Christmas Around the World' display, and the 'Blue Paradox' exhibit offer excellent photo opportunities. +1
Yes, the Colleen Moore Fairy Castle is a popular spot for photography, showcasing its intricate details.
Some visitors have noted a lack of USB charging ports, suggesting more would be beneficial for visitors taking many photos.
A camera with good low-light performance is recommended, as some exhibit areas can be dimly lit. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the dedicated toddler play area on the second floor, perfect for your little ones to explore and burn off energy. Many exhibits, like the Idea Factory, encourage hands-on participation, allowing kids to experiment with scientific principles. Consider booking tickets online to streamline your entry, and take advantage of the 'Museums for All' program if you qualify for discounts. 🤓 History Buffs
🌱 Eco-Conscious Visitors
+1 This exhibit is designed to raise awareness and encourage thoughtful consideration of our environmental footprint. It's a compelling reminder of the importance of sustainability and conservation efforts, offering a thought-provoking experience for visitors of all ages.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Exhibits
Another significant historical display is the 727 airplane, where you can explore the cabin and cockpit, offering a glimpse into aviation history. Beyond these major attractions, the museum often features rotating exhibits that delve into various historical periods and technological innovations. The Colleen Moore Fairy Castle is a delightful, albeit smaller, historical piece that captivates with its intricate detail and whimsical charm.
Interactive Science for All Ages
These exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning through play, making them ideal for families and children. The museum aims to demystify complex scientific concepts by allowing visitors to directly manipulate and observe phenomena.While many exhibits are geared towards younger audiences, the museum also offers more sophisticated scientific explorations. The 'Blue Paradox' exhibit, for instance, uses immersive technology to highlight the critical issue of plastic pollution in our oceans, appealing to a broad audience interested in environmental science.
+1 Visitors often praise the museum's ability to blend education with entertainment, ensuring that learning is an enjoyable experience. However, it's worth noting that some visitors have reported that a portion of the interactive exhibits may be under maintenance or not functioning, which can occasionally detract from the experience. Navigating the Museum: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Getting around the museum is facilitated by elevators and ramps, making it accessible for most visitors.
When it comes to capturing memories, remember to charge your phone or bring a portable charger, as you'll likely be taking numerous photos. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit