The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is in Chicago’s Hyde Park, at 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Hands-on exhibits cover subjects from weather and transport to space and biology, with highlights including the captured World War II submarine U-505, a working-style coal mine experience and a model railroad. Families can watch chicks hatch, while the Idea Lab gives children up to age 10 a place to experiment. The museum is large enough to fill a day, so choose a few priorities before you arrive.
A former Palace of Fine Arts
The museum occupies the former Palace of Fine Arts, built for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Unlike many exposition buildings, its structure has a brick base beneath the exterior plaster. The museum opened in 1933, and its galleries now bring together objects and interactive displays about science, engineering and industry.
Its scale is part of the visit. The galleries span a large area, and there are more exhibits than most people can see in one trip. Pick a few priorities before setting off, then leave room for discoveries along the way.
Submarines, trains and a coal mine
The U-505 is a German submarine captured during World War II and one of the museum’s central exhibits. A separate tour takes visitors inside the vessel, so reserve ahead if that experience is on your list. The museum also displays the Apollo 8 command module and the Pioneer Zephyr, a streamlined diesel-electric passenger train.
For a very different kind of journey, descend into the coal mine exhibit and see how mining works below ground. The Great Train Story follows rail routes across a miniature landscape, with trains moving between Chicago and Seattle. Its bridges, buildings and changing terrain make it a good stop for anyone interested in railways, whether or not they are travelling with children.
Weather, experiments and younger visitors
Science Storms uses interactive displays to explore natural forces such as tornadoes and lightning. Other exhibits touch on subjects including space, transport, energy and the human body, giving visitors a chance to learn by taking part rather than only reading displays.
Younger children can watch chicks hatch at the hatchery or spend time in the Idea Lab, which is designed for children up to age 10. The museum’s hands-on exhibits suit a range of ages, though some of the science displays may hold more interest for older children. A visit with toddlers can be shorter; let their interests guide how much of the building you cover.
Planning your route
The museum is at 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr in Hyde Park, south of central Chicago. Its size means that a route helps: choose the exhibits you most want to see, then use the color-coded stairways to navigate between areas. Staff can also help visitors find their way.
There is a cafeteria with a range of food choices, so you can take a break without leaving the museum. Plan for a full day if you want to explore broadly, and arrive early to give yourself more time. The museum’s website has current visitor information and details for specific experiences.
FAQ
How long should you spend at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry?
Plan for a full day if you want to explore widely. The museum has more exhibits than most people can cover in one visit.
Can you go inside the U-505 submarine?
Yes. A separate tour takes visitors inside the captured World War II submarine. Book ahead if you want to take the tour.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. Hands-on exhibits suit a range of ages, and the Idea Lab is designed for children up to age 10. Younger visitors can also watch chicks hatch.
Where is the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry?
It is at 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr in Chicago’s Hyde Park.
