Chicago - Museum of Science & Industry

At the north end of Jackson Park is the Museum of Science and Industry, founded in 1933. It is devoted to the application of natural laws in technological and industrial development. Among many notable exhibits are the Apollo 8 space module, a German submarine captured during the Second World War, a walk-through model of the human heart and a representation of the human brain.

Must-see attractions nearby:

Willis Tower Skydeck (formerly Sears Tower)

Field Museum of Natural History

Art Institute of Chicago

James R.Thompson Center (formerly State of Illinois Center)

John G Shedd Aquarium

John Hancock Center

Lincoln Park

Other items of interest include Coleen Moore's House, a dolls' house in the form of a fairytale castle, a large model railway layout and a working replica of a coal mine shaft elevator.

The museum is thought to be the first in the U.S. to incorporate the idea of "hands-on" exhibits. Visitors are encouraged to interact with 800 exhibits and over 2,000 interactive units. The MSI also features the Henry Crown Space Center and OMNIMAX theater. It contains exhibits on space exploration and travel. Movies are presented on the five-story screen several times throughout the day.

Hours:

May 31 to September 6: 9:30am-5:30pm

September 7 to May 30: 9:30am-4pm; Sun: 11am-4pm

Always closed on: Christmas - Christian (December 25)

Tips: Price does not include Omnimax performances. Combination tickets and group discounts are available. Call 773-684-1414 for more information on movie times and other special events.

Parking: Pay

Disability Access: Full facilities for persons with disabilities.

Facilities: Gift shop, Restaurant or food service

Transit: Bus: #6 Jeffrey Express south to 56th Street. Subway: Red or Green line train to Garfield station and transfer to an eastbound #55 Garfield bus.

Typical Visit: 4 hours