Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

The largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere transforms learning into adventure with over 2,000 hands-on exhibits spread across 14 acres. Kids can descend into a real German U-boat submarine, explore a full-size replica coal mine, walk through a 40-foot tornado, and watch baby chicks hatch, making science tangible and unforgettable.

• ✓U-505 submarine tour where you can go inside an actual WWII German submarine
• ✓Science Storms with the 40-foot indoor tornado and Tesla coil lightning demonstrations
• ✓The coal mine descent that takes you underground into a recreated working mine

1. 1.Visit on Illinois Residents Free Days (select dates, check website) or if you have a Bank of America card, free entry first full weekend of each month
2. 2.Start with the U-505 submarine tour (additional fee but worth it) first thing in the morning before crowds - tours sell out and kids love this best
3. 3.The museum is HUGE - grab a map at entrance and prioritize 5-6 must-sees rather than trying to do everything, or plan for multiple shorter visits

Weekday mornings during school year (September-May) are least crowded. If weekend is necessary, arrive right at 9:30 AM opening. Avoid spring break weeks and summer afternoons.

The Brain Food Court has pizza, burgers, salads, and kids' meals. Finnigan's Ice Cream Parlor is a hit with kids. Outside food not allowed inside, but picnic tables outside in summer. Underground parking garage directly beneath museum ($28). Entrance on 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive. Arrive early on weekends as it fills by 11 AM. Numerous family restrooms throughout all floors with changing tables. Nursing rooms available. Completely stroller-friendly with ramps and elevators throughout. You'll walk a LOT - this museum is massive. Strollers can be parked outside certain exhibits. Fully wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs and ECVs available free at coat check. All exhibits accessible except inside submarine (narrow passages). Sensory-friendly resources available.

Christmas Around the World and Holiday of Lights (November-January) features decorated trees from cultures worldwide - magical for kids. Summer brings special exhibits and extended hours. The museum's lakefront location means parking lot can be icy in winter - use caution.

Hyde Park neighborhood surrounding museum has great family options: Valois Cafeteria (cash only, Obama's favorite), Medici on 57th (pizza and burgers), and Shake Shack nearby.