Chicago Science Museum having fun with my niece 💕

2025/1/19 Edited to

... Read moreI recently had the most incredible time visiting the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago with my little niece, and I just had to share our experience! If you're wondering if this museum is good for kids, the answer is a resounding YES. It's truly one of the best family-friendly attractions in Chicago, offering so much more than just static displays. What makes MSI stand out for children is its incredible array of hands-on exhibits. My niece, for instance, was absolutely captivated by the “Science Storms” exhibit, where she could stand in a hurricane, watch a tsunami wave, and even control a tornado. It brought complex science concepts to life in such an engaging way! Another highlight was the “Idea Factory” (sometimes referred to as the Wonder Factory), a dedicated space for younger kids to experiment with light, sound, and construction. It’s perfect for letting their creativity run wild. No visit to the Museum of Science and Industry is complete without exploring the iconic U-505 German submarine. Walking through it gave us such a unique glimpse into history and technology. The “Coal Mine” exhibit is another immersive journey that truly transports you, making you feel like you're deep underground. These experiences aren't just fun; they're incredibly educational, sparking curiosity and discussion long after you leave. For families planning a visit, I have a few tips to make your day even smoother. Firstly, wear comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking! Secondly, consider arriving early, especially on weekends, to beat the biggest crowds. The museum is huge, so it's a good idea to look at the map online beforehand and pick out a few must-see exhibits to prioritize with your kids. Don't try to see everything in one go; it's better to really engage with a few areas than rush through them all. While there are dining options available within the museum, packing some snacks and drinks for the kids can be a lifesaver. There are also plenty of spots to sit and rest if little legs get tired. The staff are super friendly and helpful, always ready to answer questions. Overall, the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is an absolute gem for families. It’s not just a museum; it’s an adventure that combines learning and play seamlessly. My niece keeps asking when we can go back, and honestly, so do I! It's truly a bucket-list destination for anyone visiting Chicago with children, promising a day filled with discovery and unforgettable memories.

Related posts

A vibrant pink-themed interior, possibly a train or room, with linear ceiling lights. Overlay text reads "CHICAGO'S UNIQUE MUSEUMS" in yellow and pink, serving as a title card for the article. A Lemon8 logo and username are at the bottom left.
The exterior view of the Museum of Ice Cream, showcasing its pink interior with ice cream displays and a slide. Overlay text provides the museum's name, description, location (435 N Michigan Ave), and prices ($50-$58).
An optical illusion exhibit at the Museum of Illusions Chicago, featuring a cylindrical tunnel with blue and white patterns and lights. Overlay text includes the museum's name, description, location (25 E Washington St), and prices ($34 adults, $28 children).
Top 3 Unique Museums to Visit in Chicago
Chicago has so many museums to check out! Here are three unique museums in the Chicago area. MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM This museum has interactive exhibits, giant sprinkle pools, and plenty of sweet treats to enjoy, it’s a fun and colorful experience for visitors of all ages. Location: 435 N
Diandra Osorio

Diandra Osorio

2564 likes

Chicago🇺🇸The PERFECT 3 Days Itinerary (Winter)
☃️Save this 3 Days Itinerary for a future trip to Chicago with the best places to visit in the winter season. ❄️🎄 Would you like to visit Chicago in 2025 ❓ Day 1️⃣ The Chicago Theatre : Admire the stunning architecture ($15–$20 for tours). Museum of Illusions Chicago : Interactive fun
Marisol - Globe Traveler

Marisol - Globe Traveler

306 likes

A vibrant street scene in Chicago with tall buildings and cars, featuring the text 'Chicago 2025 FREE MUSEUM DAYS' and a 'SELF PARK' sign, announcing upcoming free museum days in the city.
An intricate artwork resembling a map of Africa, adorned with small framed portraits and medallions. The text highlights 'The Art Institute of Chicago' and its free days: Monday, Thursday, and Friday from January 6 to March 1, 2025.
The interior of the Adler Planetarium, showcasing models of planets and interactive exhibits. The text indicates 'Alder Planetarium' offers free admission every Wednesday evening from 4 to 10 p.m.
Free Museum Days! 🏛️ | Chicago
Looking for something to do in city or visiting and want to check out our iconic museums? To kick off 2025 many Chicago Museums are offering free days! Now is time to explore the wonders of the city! #chicagoactivities #chicagotourguide #chicagoexplore #new #letsgrowtogether
Glamaris💋

Glamaris💋

817 likes

A low-angle view of modern skyscrapers in Chicago under a blue sky, with the text overlay "Chicago 3 Day Itinerary" in white and black outline. The Lemon8 logo and username are in the bottom left corner.
A street view of Chicago with tall buildings, cars, and traffic lights. Text overlay reads "WHERE TO STAY" with arrows pointing to "Park Hyatt Chicago," "The Langham," and "The Gwen." The Lemon8 logo is in the bottom left.
A four-panel collage for Day 1. Top left: "DAY 1" text. Top right: People viewing art at the Art Institute of Chicago. Bottom left: The Chicago Riverwalk with city buildings. Bottom right: The Cloud Gate sculpture at Millennium Park at dusk.
Save for your Next trip to Chicago 📍🫶🏽
Day 1 Millennium Park Visit the iconic Cloud Gate home of “The Bean” and explore Crown Fountain and Lurie Garden. Highly recommend dressing warmly as it can be windy near the lake The Art Institute of Chicago One of the best museums I’ve been to, featuring works from Monet, Van Gogh an
GetawayGuide

GetawayGuide

980 likes

My trip to chicago 🎀
We’re spending the weekend in Chicago. 🏁 First stop , Museum of Ice cream 🍦 Tomorrow is going to be so special. Me , my mom, my daughter and my niece 🎀 #chicago #musemoficecream #girlstrip #girlstravel #momanddaughter
MomOf3

MomOf3

692 likes

COSI Science Museum in Columbus, Ohio
My kids favorite spot in Columbus is Cosi. It doesn’t matter how many times we go they’ll always pick to go to Cosi. Each time we go we enjoy spending our time exploring the museum together. If you’re in Columbus, Ohio for spring break I highly recommend visiting Cosi. You’ll kiddos will love i
KaNisa Sharie

KaNisa Sharie

396 likes

A night view of Chicago's Cloud Gate sculpture with city buildings in the background. The image features text 'Travel guide for. CHICAGO' and 'Swipe', indicating a guide for the city.
A list titled 'Random Stuff to do in Chicago', featuring various attractions and activities like shopping, museums, zoos, and entertainment venues.
A list titled 'bars & Clubs in Chicago', detailing various nightlife options including specific bars, clubs, and arcade bars, with some indicating crowd demographics.
Chicagooooooo
You can never be bored in Chi-town! Chicago #chicagotrip #travel #explore #fyp #rockthepatch
Solow_P

Solow_P

336 likes

A title image with "CHICAGO INTERACTIVE Museums +PRICES" in bold white and brown text, set against a blurred background of city buildings.
An interactive exhibit room at Color Factory Chicago, featuring a large ball pit filled with light green balls and geometric wall art. Text indicates the ticket price and Willis Tower location.
The Museum of Ice Cream features a pink-themed room designed like a pool, filled with pink and red sprinkles, where three people are playing. Text shows the ticket price and Tribune Tower location.
Chicago Interactive Art & Museums
1. Color Factory 🎨 Color Factory Chicago ☆ Take a journey through 14 immersive art exhibits as stunning as they are colorful. Fun for all ages, Color Factory Chicago is the place ☆ INCLUDES SWEET TREATS AND SNACKS 2. Museum of Ice Cream MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM ☆ 14 interactive installatio
♡︎ 𝙲𝚕𝚊𝚛𝚔 ♡︎

♡︎ 𝙲𝚕𝚊𝚛𝚔 ♡︎

367 likes

Griffin Museum of Science & Industry in Chicago,IL
This museum was fun. Of course I didn’t even post half of what was there. Would you check it out? Griffin Museum of Science and Industry #chicago #thingstodo #museum #science #chicagomuseums
LaLa | Food & Travel

LaLa | Food & Travel

35 likes

A mannequin of a man with a beard and bloody chest is displayed on a wooden torture rack, with his arms tied and stretched. A large wooden cage and an axe are visible in the dark background, alongside lit candles.
A wooden chair covered in numerous sharp spikes is shown, with a metal bar across the front and a small red sign that reads "Do not sit here" attached to it.
A mannequin with long, light-colored hair and a beard lies on a wooden table, with a metal cage covering its torso. Candles are visible in the background.
Making Medieval Memories - Chicago Torture Museum🏰
Step back in time and experience some chilling history at the Medieval Torture Museum in Chicago. 🏰🩸 It’s a wild look at the darker side of history; definitely an eye-opening experience if you’re into unique museums. You’ll leave with a whole new perspective on the past.. Tickets priced at $31 befo
AM ✨| Chicago Content

AM ✨| Chicago Content

181 likes

Chicago Puerto Rican art museum
Must see! Not to be confused! The focus is the lived experience of one family in Chicago! Our culture is so much more! They’re missing the Jibaro life and all! Understand the dresses in the gallery are NOT typical. Read the family history! It’s an homage to the three generations of women
Sheila

Sheila

2 likes

Liberty Science Center After Dark 😍🥳
This is most definitely a MUST TRY in New Jersey! 🥹🤩✅ Their Next Event happens to fall on HALLOWEEN so it will be a Monster Mash theme with a Terror Lab Halloween House and Costume Contest! 🎃👻💀 Some of their next events will be Latin Night on Nov 7th, Y2K Party on Nov 14th, and Oz on Nov 21st along
aiyanafig

aiyanafig

197 likes

A sign for the Museum of Science and Industry Chicago, with an overlay text bubble that reads "Things to do in Chicago!" The museum's logo is visible at the top left.
A transparent human anatomy model, showing internal organs and skeletal structure, displayed in a glass case at the museum. Circular historical images are on the blue wall behind it.
A vintage Atari CX40 joystick and console are displayed in a glass case. Circular panels on the wall above show historical information, including an image of a United Airlines plane.
Science +industry museum: Chicago!
This was a really great place to go to, I learnt so many new things and I got so many pictures. I went with my family and we had an amazing time, there are so many family friendly activities to do. I highly recommend going with family or friends, it just makes the experience so much better! If you
vic.

vic.

12 likes

Lego Art collection Chicago
Check out the other Arts 😍 #art #creativity #unaesthetic #lemon8challenge #unfiltered #chicago #embracevulnerability #Lemon8Diary #shareyourthoughts #video Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
Janet Chase

Janet Chase

762 likes

A day in: Chicago, IL
Tried to make a fun itinerary, hitting all the cool spots, as well as tips to save money when visiting the city 🍕Ⓜ️🚆 #chicago #travelrecommendations #museum #chicagoitinerary #illinois
V 🦋

V 🦋

282 likes

DOWNTOWN BOSTON SCIENCE MUSEUM.
#sciencemuseum #downtownboston #massachusetts #2024 #roadtripideas
FastCashSB

FastCashSB

0 likes

Science ✨
Sometimes nature is just amazing, I am having a hard time wrapping my head around this. #nature #museum University of Iowa Museum of Natural History #hanania
Aaron Hanania

Aaron Hanania

3898 likes

Balloon 🎈 Museum
#fun #interactive #balloonmuseum #chicago #creativity
Tricey Trice

Tricey Trice

37 likes

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing in Chicago,IL📍
This was so much fun! If you love Spider-Man or know someone who does, this is the place to be. There is a lot to see here and they even had photo op’s. Are you going to check it out? Griffin Museum of Science and Industry #chicago #ThingsToDo #chicagoactivities #museum #spiderman
LaLa | Food & Travel

LaLa | Food & Travel

40 likes

Mob Museum in Las Vegas, NV📍
The Mob Museum was fun and different. This is the place to go that doesn’t involve gambling. Would you check them out? Part 2 is coming… #lasvegas #ThingsToDo #lemon8challenge #indooractivities #vegasvacation The Mob Museum
LaLa | Food & Travel

LaLa | Food & Travel

32 likes

Museum of Science and Industry🧬🔬
These photos are from a few years ago when they were doing the Marvel exhibit, but I’ve been several times and it’s always very fun and educational 🤓💚 #sciencemuseum #chicagoactivities #chicago #museum
✨💚Rachael💚✨

✨💚Rachael💚✨

15 likes

A street view of downtown Chicago with tall buildings, a person, and a car, highlighting the city as a winter travel destination with tips and pricing details.
A collage showcasing Navy Pier attractions, including a night view of a River Taxi, the illuminated Centennial Wheel, and a person posing with a large snowflake decoration, emphasizing photo opportunities and gift shops.
A collage featuring Millennium Park, showing the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, people ice skating at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, a large Christmas tree, and a building lit up for festive picture moments.
What I did on my 5 Day Vacation in Chicago!
All photos taken are mine!! Get the most out of Chicago Downtown by visiting all the spots above + keep reading for more! My Top Travel Tips for Winter in Chicago -Book your hotel in the middle of downtown. Everything listed above is walking distance minus Chinatown (which is only a few s
🌸Cherry🌸

🌸Cherry🌸

561 likes

Ice cream museum 🍦
We absolutely loved checking this place out! 📍 Chicago, IL #icecream #icecreammuseum #chicago #trip #fun
K Y E S H I A

K Y E S H I A

49 likes

Underrated parks to visit in Chicago ✨
You might be familiar with places like millennium Park in Chicago, but have you ever considered exploring the hidden gem parks of Chi Town? The next time you’re in Chicago, consider visiting some of these beautiful and quieter parks. Jackson Park Originally home to the Museum of Science and In
Grace Kim

Grace Kim

50 likes

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM IN CHICAGO 🍨
The MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM Chicago is A MUST if you’re local or just visiting! It’s unlimited ice cream once you get there , they have a “ Chicago Style Hot Dog Ice Cream “ that ACTUALLY tastes like a hot dog It Has a Interactive Rooms Which Are Supper Fun And Cute To Take Pictures 💗📸 ⭐️Overall
Anai Diego

Anai Diego

694 likes

A Must-Visit Museum for Cat Lovers
If you’re a true cat lover, The Field Museum in Chicago is an unexpected yet fascinating place you can’t miss! While best known for its dinosaurs and ancient artifacts, this world-class museum also features exhibits that highlight the deep connection between humans and felines throughout history.
Lily Brown

Lily Brown

90 likes

Museum of Ice Cream 🍦🩷 | 📍Chicago
Museum of Ice Cream | 📍Chicago 10/10 experience. I’d say it took maybe an hr or two to get through the museum. Very family oriented and interactive. 🏙️🍦🌸 #museumoficecream #foodie #icecream #chicago #travelcreator
_emareee

_emareee

15 likes

Chicago adventure🏙️
#thingstodoinchicago #thingstodowithkids #chicago
SHOPPING|MOMLIFE|FAMILYFUN

SHOPPING|MOMLIFE|FAMILYFUN

6 likes

FIELD MUSEUM DAY!
If you’ve never been to the Field Museum in Chicago, you HAVE TO GO! Make it a point to go on one of their annual free days, it’s so worth it! I went earlier this year, and the exhibits were so fun. It’s entertaining AND you learn a lot! It was also my first time seeing dinosaurs so definitely a d
milanotochicago

milanotochicago

7 likes

Lego Art Collection Chicago
Check out the other Arts 😍 Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago #art #creativity #embracevulnerability #lemon8challenge #unaesthetic #unfiltered #Lemon8Diary #video #fyp
Janet Chase

Janet Chase

91 likes

The exterior of the International Museum of Surgical Science, a historic mansion with classical architecture, situated between taller modern buildings under a cloudy sky. Lush green landscaping is visible in the foreground.
An exhibit at the International Museum of Surgical Science titled 'The Operating Room: Surgical Technology Then and Now,' featuring a blue banner and a glass display case filled with antique surgical instruments in wooden boxes.
A detailed model of a circular, multi-tiered anatomical theater or operating room, featuring wooden railings, a central wooden table, and a chair, depicting a historical medical observation setting.
Guide to Chicago’s Surgical Science Museum
Step into the fascinating world of medical history at the International Museum of Surgical Science in Chicago! This hidden gem offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of surgery, medicine, and healthcare. From ancient medical tools to cutting-edge surgical advancements, the museum takes visitors
Lily Brown

Lily Brown

2 likes

Must do in Chicago
My friend and I went to Chicago after Christmas the year before last when the museum was doing pinkmas and it was super cute and fun! We had a blast and got to take so many pictures. It was definitely a favorite from our trip. #travel #chicago #museumoficecream #girlstrip
Chloe Legereit

Chloe Legereit

273 likes

Fun and cheap things to do in Chicago
Looking to explore Chicago on a budget? Check out this guide for some affordable Chicago activities that are genuinely fun! #chicagoactivities #chicagorecommendations #chicagocontentcreator #thingstodoinchicago #chicagotravel
Kayleejochicago

Kayleejochicago

97 likes

A street view in Chicago with a large 'CHICAGO' sign visible in the distance. People are walking on the sidewalk, and a Walgreens store is on the right. A Divvy Bikes station is also present.
The pink entrance of the Museum of Ice Cream, with a sign stating 'MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM'. Text overlays indicate general admission is $27 without tax and includes unlimited ice cream and activities.
A pink tiled wall inside the museum featuring several oval signs that read 'MY ICE CREAM NAME IS' followed by creative names like 'Lady Fingers Gaga', 'Oprah Winfreeze', and 'Dairyan Grande'.
Chicago’s Museum of icecream🍦
#chicago #Lemon8Diary #icecream #fyp #lemon8challenge
Mani

Mani

5 likes

A colorful sign made of large Lego bricks spells out "The Art of the Brick" in white letters, indicating an exhibit at the museum.
A person is silhouetted against a vibrant purple illuminated wall, striking a pose while holding a phone, capturing the atmosphere of the museum.
A detailed sculpture of a human torso, made entirely from yellow Lego bricks, features an open chest cavity with loose bricks spilling out.
Night at the Museum of Science & Industry🔎
The Museum of Science and Industry is a chicago staple; if you grew up in the city or suburbs you’ve been at least once. Even though I’ve been going since a kid, it’s something that doesn’t get old because there’s always something new to see. New exhibits, new events, new live performances, etc. Th
AM ✨| Chicago Content

AM ✨| Chicago Content

12 likes

Chicago FREE Museums in Jan. 2025
🎟️Here’s a list of some of the major Chicago museums offering free days for Illinois Residents in January 2025: 1. Museum of Science and Industry * Free Days: January 13–15, 26-29 2. Shedd Aquarium * Free Days: January 7–9, 14–21, 28–30 3. Chicago History Museum * Free Days: Jan
Chicago_moms

Chicago_moms

4 likes

An exhibit recreating an "Early American Apothecary" storefront, featuring wooden display cases filled with historical medical items. Two visitors are visible inside the exhibit, exploring the historical medical setting.
A museum gallery with a person standing before three large historical paintings depicting medical or surgical scenes. The room features white paneled walls and a dark, polished floor.
A full-body stone statue of a man identified as "Lister" (1827-1912), standing on a pedestal. The statue is located in a museum hall with white paneled walls and a dark marble floor.
Surgical Science Museum in Chicago
Step into the International Museum of Surgical Science in Chicago, where medical history comes to life through fascinating exhibits and rare artifacts. This one-of-a-kind museum offers a deep dive into the evolution of surgery, medicine, and healthcare, showcasing centuries of groundbreaking discov
Lily Brown

Lily Brown

5 likes

Museum Science & Industry
Museum Science & Industry Chicago, IL #thingstodo #locationgo
melodeekoziatek1

melodeekoziatek1

1 like

Museum of Icecream!
#museum of ice cream #icecream #museum #musuemstovisit Places to visit in Chicago!
❄️ 𝕣𝕚𝕣𝕚 ❄️

❄️ 𝕣𝕚𝕣𝕚 ❄️

214 likes

Places to visit in Chicago
The Blue Paradox 🌊 #museum #date #travel #chicago #explore Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Awkpie

Awkpie

22 likes

A vibrant image of Millennium Park in Chicago, featuring a classical fountain with columns and modern skyscrapers in the background. The text overlay highlights "6 FREE THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO" and "MILLENNIUM PARK".
A scenic view of the Lincoln Park Zoo, showing a flock of pink flamingos and other birds gathered by a pond amidst dense green trees and flowering plants. The image is captioned "LINCOLN PARK ZOO".
The distinctive, ornate gate marking the entrance to Chicago's Chinatown, featuring traditional Chinese architecture and characters under a cloudy sky. The image is labeled "CHINATOWN".
6 free things to do in Chicago
Dear Lemon8 🍋, Here are six free things to do in Chicago: 1. Millennium Park: Visit this iconic park to see the Cloud Gate sculpture (often called “The Bean”), the Crown Fountain, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and architecture. 2. Lincoln Park Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in the U.S., the L
Thisgirltok

Thisgirltok

111 likes

Chicago science museum!!
#springbreak #travelwithme2024 #Lemon8Diary #fyp #chicago
🎀….Olivia…✨

🎀….Olivia…✨

3 likes

Chicago Sports Museum
Visiting the #chicagosportsmuseum while in #chicago Chicago
Joanne | NY | Travel & Life 🩵

Joanne | NY | Travel & Life 🩵

2 likes

A wooden sign for "Chicago Children's Museum" hangs above a blue circular logo and a green sign saying "Things to Do In Chicago" with a lightbulb icon.
Children are playing with toy cars on a multi-colored race track with a checkered flag. A young boy in a black cap sits on the floor, looking at the cars.
A young child in a black hoodie uses a red-handled screwdriver to work on a wooden construction, with an adult's hand assisting.
Chicago Children’s Museum 🦖
We took our toddler to Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier and he loved it. No tantrums! It is an interactive experience for children of all ages. They learn to build things, dig for dinosaur bones but mostly play pretend with other children. My son loved the Zoom Room where he got to play with
Mariiia💕

Mariiia💕

5 likes

Viral Balloon Museum in Chicago
The Fields Studios ⭐️Overall rating: 10/10 💵 Price:$55 adult, $51 (13-17), $44 (4-12) Additional Tips: Paid parking on site + family ticket packages #chicagomuseums #chicagoactivities #chicago #foryou #fyp
POV DRE

POV DRE

0 likes

Museum of Ice cream Chicago
The BEST Chicago Attraction goes to ….. #chicagoactivities #chicago #travelwithme2024
TheProteinSwap

TheProteinSwap

182 likes

See more