O OFTEN A BALLROOM IS JUST that — just another ballroom. For events that pique imagina- tions and tickle curiosities, the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), transforms meet- ings and special events from ball- room-trapped snooze-fests to exciting educational experiences
that will inspire groups of 10 to 10,000 people. Just steps away from Lake Michigan and min-
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utes from the heart of downtown Chicago, MSI is one of the largest science museums in the world, with more than 35,000 artifacts and 14 acres of hands-on exhibits. Featuring exhibits that focus on everything from the human body to nature’s most dramatic phenomena, the museum’s tours, dem- onstrations, and experiences let guests explore the thrill and wonder of the world around them. Guests can learn about the inner workings of tornados, avalanches, and other forces of natures in the interactive “Science Storms” exhibit, or explore “Smart Home: Green + Wired,” an eco-friendly, modular home built on the museum’s grounds. Beyond exhibits, live science shows
Private events held amid the museum’s scientific marvels and experiments add an unexpected touch of whimsy and wonder.
hosted by facilitators bring the how and why of science to life. For example, “Bangs, Flashes, and Fire” turns chemistry into a fun and fiery, explosion-filled show for all ages. Private events held amid the museum’s scientific marvels and experiments add an unexpected touch of whimsy and wonder. The two-story “U-505 Submarine” exhibit, featuring the only German submarine captured by the U.S. Navy during World War II, as well as 200 related artifacts and an on-board tour, can accommodate receptions of up to 700 people. Planners who want something dif-
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LOVE OF LEARNING: Part of the proceeds from events held at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, help fund the museum — so not only is an event an enlightening experience for attendees, it helps to create educational opportunities for the more than 1.5 million guests who visit the museum annually.
ferent for a daytime meeting or luncheon can opt for the newly ren- ovated Colombian Room, with private space for up to 120 people as well as Wi-Fi, AV capabilities, and food-and-beverage service. Out- door events on the museum’s beautifully landscaped grounds feel majestic, set against the backdrop of the building’s iconic columns. Tented events in the south portico, adjacent to the historic Jackson Park lagoon, can hold up to 650 people; when combined, the north and south porticos can accommodate larger tented events for up to 1,500 people. When it comes to catering, MSI never lets food-and-beverage
become an afterthought. The museum’s special-event team can cre- ate menus, action stations, and displays that are as fun and imagina- tive as the museum’s exhibits. And décor, setups, lighting, and other on-site services help meeting professionals breathe a little easier. Just three miles away from McCormick Place, the Museum of Sci- ence and Industry, Chicago, offers easy access for groups in town for conventions, meetings, or leisure travel. n
For more information: Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, 57th Street and Lakeshore Drive, Chicago, IL 60637; (773) 753-2583; www.msichicago.org/specialevents