Exhibitions
Sparking curiosity and innovation through immersive science experiences
A storied past and a visionary future
In 1933, Julius Rosenwald turned a spark of inspiration into a legacy. After witnessing his child’s fascination with an interactive exhibit, Rosenwald envisioned a museum where science came to life for everyone. Today, Rosenwald’s vision continues at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, where more than 200 million guests have ignited their curiosity through our immersive experiences. As one of the largest science museums in the world, we bridge education and innovation, delivering hands-on exhibits and outreach programs that break barriers and engage future thinkers of all ages. Ready to find your spark?
Fourteen acres of inquiry
The moment you step inside Griffin MSI, discovery surrounds you — from a WWII submarine, to a towering tornado, to films projected onto a five-story dome. Unforgettable tours, events, and hands-on experiences bring science to life in every visit.
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Empowering future innovators
Science education shapes tomorrow’s leaders, both in and beyond the classroom. Learn how Griffin MSI’s hands-on programs foster discovery, build skills and help kids reach their full potential.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: A brief history
Founded in 1933, Griffin MSI has become one of the largest science museums in the world, sparking curiosity and inspiring scientific exploration for over 90 years.
The Museum’s grand building, the Palace of Fine Arts, was built for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Designed by Charles B. Atwood, it was initially intended to showcase fine arts but later repurposed for science and industry exhibitions, eventually becoming the permanent home of Griffin MSI.
Museums in the Park
From natural history to cultural history, from the savviest in science to wondrous works of art, from the aquatic world to worlds beyond, Chicago's Museums In the Park enrich the lives of everyone who walks through their doors. The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is just one of the Museums in the Park supported in part through the generosity of the people of Chicago and the Chicago Park District. For more information about the Museums In The Park, visit museumsinthepark.org.
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
1300 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605 312-922-STAR
Art Institute of Chicago
Michigan Avenue at Adams Street, Chicago, IL 60603 312-443-3600
Chicago History Museum
Clark Street at North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614 312-642-4600
DuSable Museum of African American History
740 East 56th Place, Chicago, IL 60637 773-947-0600
The Field Museum
Roosevelt Road and Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605 312-922-9410
National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture
3015 West Division Street, Chicago, IL 60622 773-486-8345
Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago
220 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 312-280-2660
National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 West 19th Street, Chicago, IL 60608 312-738-1503
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
2430 North Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614 773-755-5100
Shedd Aquarium
1200 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605 312-939-2438
Help inspire the inventive genius in everyone
Join us in sparking curiosity and innovation throughout our community and the world.
