Chicago: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Ticket

Explore the Largest Science Museum in Chicago with a Single Ticket

A visit to the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry offers an engaging day immersed in science, technology, and engineering. Priced at a standard admission, this single-day ticket grants access to over 35,000 artifacts and hundreds of exhibits spread across more than 400,000 square feet.

Located in Illinois, just a few miles south of downtown Chicago, the museum is housed in the only remaining building from the 1893 World’s Fair. This historic setting blends the grandeur of its past with cutting-edge interactive displays, making it ideal for families, students, and curious minds of all ages. The experience combines hands-on activities, live science experiments, and exhibits that highlight everything from weather phenomena to space exploration.

While the museum offers many spectacular features, some special exhibits like Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing require an additional ticket and are available until February 8, 2026. Visitors should plan accordingly, as some areas may be closed for maintenance or updates, and extra costs can add up if multiple special exhibits are included.

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Key Points

• Large and historic venue: Housed in the only remaining building from the 1893 World’s Fair.
• Extensive exhibits: Over 35,000 artifacts and more than 400,000 square feet of interactive displays.
• Engaging activities: Control a 40-foot tornado, trigger an avalanche, explore a WW2 German Submarine, and see the Apollo 8 capsule.
• Special exhibits: Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing, additional ticket required.
• Location and accessibility: Just outside downtown Chicago with underground parking; wheelchair accessible.
• Ideal for all ages: Offers an educational yet fun experience, praised for the knowledgeable guides and well-organized layout.

The Historic Setting of the Museum Building

The museum’s home, a historic building, is the only remaining structure from Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair. This architecture provides a unique backdrop for the exhibits, blending history with modern science. The building’s design enhances the experience, giving visitors a sense of stepping into a significant piece of Chicago’s past while exploring the future of science.

Over 35,000 Artifacts and Exciting Exhibits

The main collection features 35,000 artifacts that span a wide range of scientific fields. Visitors find themselves exploring hundreds of exhibits, each designed to be both educational and interactive. From recreations of the most powerful weather phenomena—such as tornados, lightning, and avalanches—to atoms and fire experiments, there’s plenty to spark curiosity.

Hands-On Science and Live Experiments

The museum’s interactive approach is one of its strongest points. Visitors can see a giant Tesla coil that zaps 1.2 million volts of lightning, or take a tour of the human digestive system. There are human-sized hamster wheels and board a hanging 727 airplane to understand aviation. These activities make learning tangible rather than just viewing static displays.

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The Henry Crown Space Center and Space Exploration

Space enthusiasts will appreciate the Henry Crown Space Center, which showcases space travel’s past and future. Visitors learn about historic missions, with displays that include models and multimedia about space exploration. This center provides insight into the journey from early rockets to current innovations.

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing Exhibition

A highlight for many visitors is the special exhibition dedicated to Spider-Man, called Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing. This immersive display features rare comic books, props and costumes from movies, and interactive installations. Visitors can take photos with life-size statues of characters like Miles Morales and Ghost-Spider. Because it is not included in general admission, an additional ticket is necessary, and the exhibit is open through February 8, 2026.

Engaging Activities for All Ages

The museum emphasizes hands-on activities suitable for children and adults alike. Visitors can tour a model of the digestive system, run in a human-sized hamster wheel, or board a hanging airplane. These experiences are designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning through doing.

Practical Details: Location, Parking, and Accessibility

The museum is located at coordinates 41.79057312011719, -87.58306884765625, a few miles south of Chicago’s downtown. Underground parking makes access straightforward, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Visitors should show their timed barcoded tickets at the entrance and arrive on time for their slot.

Visiting Tips and Additional Costs

While general admission covers most exhibits, some areas—like the U-505 submarine tour or special exhibits—may require additional tickets, which can increase the overall cost. Review the options ahead of time, especially if planning to explore multiple special exhibits. Visitors can bring their own lunch or purchase food at the Museum Kitchen or Stans Donuts.

What Makes This Museum Stand Out

The museum’s combination of history, science, and interactivity makes it a top choice in Chicago. The large collection of artifacts and variety of experiential exhibits are praised for their educational value and fun factor. The knowledgeable staff and well-organized layout contribute to a seamless visit.

Potential Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews note that certain exhibits are closed or under maintenance, which may limit what is visible on the day of visit. Plus, extra fees for specific exhibits or tours can add up quickly, so planning ahead helps manage expectations. Food prices inside the museum are considered high, so bringing snacks might be advisable.

The Best Choice for Science Enthusiasts and Families

This museum truly shines as a family-friendly attraction that offers educational entertainment. Reviewers consistently praise its cleanliness, organization, and interactive displays. It suits children and young students but also appeals to adults interested in science and history.

Final Thoughts on the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

The Griffin Museum provides a comprehensive, engaging experience for anyone curious about science, technology, and engineering. Its historic building combined with modern exhibits creates an inviting space for learning and fun. While some special exhibits involve extra costs and certain areas may be temporarily closed, the core experience remains rich and rewarding.

This museum is highly recommended for visitors seeking an active, hands-on day immersed in science. It’s particularly suited for families with children or students exploring STEM topics, but remains a fascinating destination for adults as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket valid for the entire day?
Yes, the single-day ticket grants access for the whole day, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

Are there any age restrictions?
The museum is suitable for all ages, with many activities designed for children and engaging exhibits for adults. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed to bring tripods or engage in certain activities.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
Advance purchase is recommended as daily capacity is limited, and tickets are required in advance to guarantee entry.

Are there food options inside the museum?
Yes, visitors can bring their own lunch or purchase food and drinks at the Museum Kitchen or Stans Donuts.

What is included in the general admission?
Most exhibits are included, but some special exhibits or tours like the U-505 submarine or Marvel Spider-Man require additional tickets.

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