Chicago families love MSI! The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. Exhibits focus on both history and on the future of science and science education, but kids love the interactive exhibits and jaw-dropping experiences geared just for them. They have an amazing model train exhibit, too, that train-enthusiast kids (and adults!) go wild for.

This museum is located a little south of downtown, but a very quick drive. Its campus has tons of open park area for kids to burn off some energy and right next to the lake, too.