Color Factory

168

356

2 years ago

This was such a fun interactive day activity for a big group of friends. The different colorfully decorated rooms made for great picture backdrops, and they also make the price worth it by providing different sweet treats and adding in activities like a blind candy taste test, a drawing exercise, and a sound room. I loved that they have cameras set up around the different rooms so you don't have to take your own pictures. You scan a QR code to activate the cameras, and the photos are saved and sent via email for a seamless process. My friends and I had such a great time here. Definitely recommended for a group wanting to capture memories together! read more

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Haley L.

104

254

3 years ago

Had so much fun here with my husband! Very interactive and I did not feel like it was mainly centered around kids, so adults can go too! Photo experiences throughout the exhibits. read more

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Lyndsey R.

247

609

3 years ago

I think this place is good to go to at least once to escape the city or to just do something unique and interesting. I love how there's a complimentary coat check! the system takes a picture of you and your belongings to make sure you get your things back. Then you input your phone number to get it back at the end. That was probably my favorite thing because I had a tote bag I had been carrying around all day and it was super heavy so I was able to check my bag. I only kept my phone and my picture code to take pictures throughout the place. Each room is so different. Lots of interesting things to see. I loved how there's a selfie area in most rooms. It's hard to take pictures alone but having that added feature is priceless! Some of the rooms had little treats/surprises. My favorite room of all was this room where you have a partner, you enter different sides of the room that's divided by glass (kind of like a visitation jail center lol) but you sit down and you have coloring pencils, a piece of paper and some complement cards. You put the headphones on and they instruct you what to do! We had a lot of fun doing this! Of course the ball pit is fun! And just overall, we had a great time. I'd give it a 10/10 for the experience. Especially with children, I'm sure they'd have a blast. Would I do it again? By myself, probably not. With someone new, maybe. I think overall the experience was great. It's a little expensive but nothing crazy. We spent around $100 for 2 people. I think since they add little treats here and there, plus the picture opportunities, that really makes up for it. At the end, you're able to print your pictures if you want. Again, a tad on the costly side. It was $10 for one 5x7 print. However, you're able to download all your pictures to your phone. So I only bought one picture that was worth it to me! Overall, loved this place. read more

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Rita B.

248

651

4 years ago

We had an absolutely amazing family day at the color factory. Our boys will not stop asking when we can return. Every single room had a different theme to it and some had snacks too. Overall highly recommended, our boys are aged 4.5 and had great fun. The rooms we enjoyed most was definitely the confetti room and the ball pit. There were way more rooms than my photos are showing. We spent about 2 hours in there. read more

Color Factory - The best ball pit ever - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Outside the gift shop - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Confetti - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - The entrance - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - The balloon rooom - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - The 3D maze room - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - The drawing booth room - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - The colorful entrance - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Stacy H.

291

557

3 years ago

3.5 stars My husband and I brought my almost 5 year old niece and she loved the treats and ball pit. She could care less for everything else. I can't tell if an older kid would've enjoyed it more but this seems more like a place for adults to post on their instagram. I thought it was cool they gave you a personal QR code to get pictures taken at specified spots during the exhibit. You can then download them for free or pay to print. Going through all the rooms took about an hour - we spent a good chunk of that in the ball pit room. The best treat was the mini Kurimu ice cream cone at the end. Overall, not sure if it was worth $130 for the three of us but I'm glad we got to try it. read more

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Lisa L.

724

828

1597

4 years ago

Definitely a good option for younger children as there are interactive things to do throughout. Everything was explained easily by staff. Priced a bit high for how quick it took to walk through. read more

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Elah N.

115

583

3 years ago

The coolest time at the Color Factory. It was a new experience and really allowed you to enjoy the simple things and being creative! The tickets are priced on the high end and they are located on the third floor in the Willis Tower! read more

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Fallon B.

116

273

4 years ago

I have done so many pop up and art museum places; but I will admit Color factory is really worth the money and loved the interactive art and activities that they offer! I thought we'd be done with this event like 30-45 minutes based on my experience with other places lol but NO! We we're literally in there for at least 2 hrs - I loved this experience and the staff were so nice and friendly as well! Another plus is that they also offer you treats along the tour! It's a lot to do - I'd definitely recommend for a date night, or a family outing (it's very kid friendly) for sure! I'll admit that the color factory is instagram worthy for cool and trendy content; but besides that it's just fun and I feel like you will definitely have a great time. As for price point - I think I paid $61 for the unlimited time stamp; but that's only so I could come whenever time I wanted! My party group did a scheduled time tickets and I do believe they're cheaper prices for that; but it's worth the money I'm telling you! Lol as you I was going through a new door - I kept saying on it's the last one we are about to be finished lol and nope it was more things to explore! I literally had the best time on my birthday (NYE) and got some really great photos too!! read more

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Julie R.

1 year ago

Our favorite thing we did in Chicago. My kids were the perfect age for this at 7 and 8. They understood the science explanations and enjoyed the art and colors. The treats throughout were the topping on the cake. We loved how all of the free pictures came out also. Worth every cent it costs read more

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Andrea R.

Elite 26 All-Star

3729

3447

1902

4 years ago

I visited with my colleagues in NYC right before the pandemic and had the best time. I kept thinking the entire time that my kids would love it here and finally years later got my chance to take my daughter and her friends for her bday to the Chicago Color Factory. Chicago Color Factory is a bit different from the version I went to back in 2019, but still as fun. We went on a late Sunday afternoon and it wasn't very crowded, which meant our party of 9 had most of the rooms of the color factory to ourselves. There's a ton of fun picture opportunities and the middle school girls were thrilled to pose. There is also tons of interactive exhibits throughout to keep kids of all ages (and adults) busy! And the highlight for all is the germy ball pit at the very end. There are also a few yummy snacks (macaroons, ice cream, etc) throughout the experience. By the end of our 1-1.5 hours of colorful fun we posted for dozens of pictures, enjoyed a few treats and had a ton of fun. All the girls absolutely loved it and I had a ton of fun too. It was the perfect activity for this group of 6th graders, but think my younger boys would have a ton of fun there too so perhaps I'll be back soon! We recently visited the Ice Cream Museum too, which we also enjoyed, but overall I thought this was a better value and also more ideal for older kids for those deciding between the 2 experiences. \ read more

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Azzi X.

1 year ago

I thought it was a good experience. A date-worthy place. Very inspiring! All segments had its own unique experience to it. I really enjoyed the one where you walk into a room separate from a partner and you were able to draw each other. read more

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Himanshu L.

190

3 years ago

Worth visiting at least once if you are in Chicago downtown area. We definitely got more than what we were expecting from this place. Please do go here if you have kids - they will absolutely love it. You will get a chance to click amazing colorful photos - very instagramable place. We went here on a Sunday evening and it was not at all crowded so we ended up spending close to 2 hours here. I initially thought that we are paying more money but based on the experience we had, I would say it was worth the money. read more

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Jisha J.

188

460

522

2 years ago

This is a really fun experience to do with kids. They enjoyed the ball pit and the confetti room a lot. Everything was so vibrant and it was a nice way to spend a couple hours of time. read more

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London F.

2 years ago

A cool place for pictures!!!! They have cameras set up throughout the rooms to take photos for you. There are a few rooms that are immersive. My favorite was the mirrored room and the ball pit! I would definitely recommend if you're in the city and need an activity! read more

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Hilary L.

209

126

4 years ago

My sister and I stopped in at the Color Factory on a whim during our quick trip to Chicago. We had an hour or two to kill before our dinner reservation, so we decided to check it out. Honestly, I didn't know what to expect, and so I'd set my expectations pretty low. I was so pleasantly surprised! We had a BLAST. I will say that we did have a little bit of trouble finding the Color Factory. It's located on the lowest floor of the Willis Tower. In hindsight, there was adequate signage, so I'm not sure how we missed it. All of the different rooms were great, but we definitely had a few favorites. A ball pit for adults and for kids?? Absolutely. I also thought it was great how different rooms incorporated different senses - taste, sight, and hearing. I don't want to give away too much, but I highly recommend the Color Factory! We're adults and enjoyed it but it's definitely appropriate for children too! read more

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K C.

2 years ago

Very well done. Ea room has a diff vibe lots of little treats and activities throughout; only wished it had more rooms, we didn't want it to end. The staff were very friendly and it is flow controlled so it's not overly crowded which was wonderful. You get a QR code so they can track your pics during. Highly recommend!!! read more

Color Factory - The ball pit was the best part (and why I wanted to go in the first place) - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Maria S.

426

210

318

4 years ago

Def one of the better "Instagram type of museums" and recommend you visit if you like to take cool Instagram pics. Fun for adults and kids. My husband and I had a great time being big kids here. And yes we are basic. They got cameras in different rooms. You get a card with QR code and scan it before pics are taken. Pics are sent to you electronically afterward. Def a nice touch so you don't have to keep using your phone and get professional pics with their camera. Def more interactive than other "museums". Different rooms come with different little surprises. I don't wanna spoil them. At the gigantic ball pit, make sure your phone isn't on silent. You can totally lose your phone inside. Staff are all friendly and helpful. Highly recommended if you like taking silly pics with your friends and family with colorful backgrounds and cool props. If you aren't basic enough or don't care to take silly pics or don't like to play like a kid, you can skip this as it's not cheap. read more

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Christina S.

180

3 years ago

We stopped here during our Chicago trip and I am so glad we did! It was by far the most fun interactive museum I have been to. There are so many fun activities for all ages. We had a 9 year old with us and he had a blast - and so did the adults! There are also so many awesome photo opportunities all throughout the museum. They even have multiple installed self timed cameras that you can scan your given QR code on and at the end of your visit, they will send you a link to your email to access all the photos at no extra charge! We were here for about 2 hours and did not feel rushed at all. They gave macarons, mini ice cream, had a pop rocks experiment, and gave out some stickers/ pens. Their goal is to cater to all your senses and they definitely deliver with taste, sight, touch, sound, and even smell. Tickets are around $40-$50 if I remember correctly, but it is well worth the price. This is definitely a must see attraction if you are in Chicago! read more

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Angelina M.

Elite 21

211

253

3 years ago

This was so much fun and totally Worth it. We had just stumbled upon it because we went to sky deck which is in the same building. I love all of the photo ops, and the fact that you can scan them all in a QR code. Also, there was plenty of delicious treats along the way. It wasn't crowded at all, so we got to take our time taking photos, and the exhibit was pretty lengthy so we felt we got our moneys worth. read more

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Samantha C.

3 years ago

Going later in the day was the best choice. It wasn't over crowded and we got to explore at our own pace. Although for basically a selfie place it was very pricey. $200 for four people. No extra items. Photos at the end (if you wish to print them) are pricey as well. For 8 photos it was $60. They ended up not being in the best resolution for their price as well. The best part was the ball pit and I will admit that. Even though the slides were closed that day due to safety, according to the management, the ball pit was still just as fun. Spending time with my bf and family made it fun. If I went by myself this place would have been very boring. There's not much for what you pay for. I would give it less stars but those employees have to put up with snobby people all day and they're still kind after a full day of work. read more

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Melrose G.

129

4 years ago

This was a very fun experience. We had a 15 year old teenager with us. It was enjoyable for the adults and the teen. The experience incorporates all the senses - touch, smell, hearing, sight and taste. It took us just over an hour to get through everything and we decided to even skip some of the rooms and installations. The best part was that they had cameras installed. Those cameras take pictures, so you didn't have to bother with your own phone. Also the ball pit was huge. I have been to the Ice Cream Museum, the Happy Place, and Refinery 29. This one is by far one of the best of these type of installations, if not the best one. read more

Color Factory - Entrance - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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T S.

1 year ago

It was amazing. So much fun great experience for all ages. Sweet treats all throughout from Jelly beans when you first enter to a petite ice cream cone when you leave. They give you a QR code to scan throughout where you can take photos. You do not have to purchase photos unless you want to print them to frame or make a photo key chain. Once you leave your photos are emailed to you and you have 3 months to download for free. All around wonderful experience read more

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Mary Q.

1066

4 years ago

SO. MUCH. FUN. Joyous. Sights, sounds, tastes, and smells. Fun for adults and families, a place where grownups can play and enjoy themselves like kids. Well thought out from the way pictures are captured, treats are given, timed entry so you can fully enjoy without it being crowded, and the staff were delightful. So glad we went, will go again, and will check them out in other cities. Go, have fun, and take lots of pics! Approximately 90min to fully experience and enjoy without feeling rushed. Ball pit has specialized cleaning. May be overwhelming to anyone with sensory sensitivity. read more

Color Factory - Giant mint green ball pit. Joyous fun for kids and grownups - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Giant mint green ball pit - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Refreshing melon mini cone in the same color as the ball pit - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Flavorama: How color influences flavor - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Entry - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Macarons - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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CJ V.

3 years ago

Stumbled upon the Color Factory when we were visiting the SkyDeck. It totally exceeded my expectations! So fun and playful! Lots of candy samples, and delicious ice cream. Went with a 9year old and 74 year old and we all loved it! Yes, it's worth the money read more

Color Factory - Sign - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Brianna P.

145

128

4 years ago

I took my kids ages 10 and 7 and this was perfect! There were lots of really cool interactive rooms, nothing felt like too much for us, and it was captivating for the kids and myself. Very well done, lovely experience. Totally worth the admission. read more

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DeAnna P.

385

1274

677

3 years ago

What a cool experience. We had a very fun time going with our 9 year old child. It was fun at her age and at ours. I love the level of interaction, along with the educational materials they provide. read more

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Mia W.

2 years ago

So much fun! This is great to do with your friends or your family. The activities are really fun and you get snacks in almost every room (yum!). I'd highly recommend this for anyone who is trying to get some time out of the heat in Chicago for the day. read more

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Ashly G.

Elite 25

269

270

2 years ago

We had the best time! Wasn't sure what this little gem was going to be all about but took a chance because we had a long layover waiting for a train at Amtrak, just down the road. What a neat experience. Loved all the little treat and interactive exhibits. Would absolutely visit again! read more

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Sassy D.

4 years ago

so worth it! It is very interactive and has a lot of fun ~treat~ I'll be honest It's expensive but hey nothing in life is free. Try not to taking to many selfie it has great backgrounds but be present read more

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Dee W.

Elite 24

3 years ago

This interactive exhibit was such a blast!!! All of the cool pictures and souvenirs you get for such a fun experience!! Totally worth it!! They had cute couple activities and even different ways to explore your birthday!! Such a cool experience! I highly recommend!! read more

Color Factory - One of the colorful rooms with lights and mirrors - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Can you say purple? - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Meghann P.

1 year ago

This place is so cute and the staff was super friendly! It was such a fun experience, I can't wait to come back

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Jamie P.

Elite 24

132

4 years ago

My daughter and I were on a college visit and we needed something to kill some time and we discovered the Color Factory! It was the perfect place to stop for anyone who loves to take pictures. I would recommend it for a mother/daughter, couple, small group of friends (even numbers would be helpful for one section). I loved how interactive it was with tons of picture opportunities. I loved the stations that take pictures for you.....and they send it to you via email. Such a fun day!! Highly recommend. read more

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Valenia A.

3 years ago

Best place ever it's so worth it and free treats !!!!!! I love being in Chicago it's my home read more

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Claire H.

256

105

4 years ago

This place is AMAZING!! Highly recommend! Staff was friendly! The rooms were so much fun! There was so much excitement around every corner! We loved every second! We never felt rushed and enjoyed every moment! Will definitely be going to other locations! read more

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Jonathan B.

3 years ago

Quirky fun inside the Willis Tower. I didn't know what to expect upon entering Color Factory, but it is a feast for all the senses and fun for all ages. You don't have to be an Instagram influencer to have fun here with all the cool colors and decor. read more

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DaniqueMarie J.

3 years ago

We had a GREAT time ! As adults I thought we might be overrun with children but it there was a lot of other adults there. Mostly on dates. I love that's it's interactive and hits all the senses. Will definitely return and try in another city. read more

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Robyn T.

Elite 24

4 years ago

Was fun, interactive, and there were freebies!!! My toddler loved the macaroons, pop rocks, ice cream and all the rooms. Her favorites were the 1st room (mirror maze), the room with the floating balloons, and of course the ball pit. read more

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Claude S.

Elite 25

110

101

3 years ago

What a fun and unique experience! I seriously recommend this for anyone looking for new and unique ways to have fun. Any age. Their built in Photo-op system is brilliant! My only critique is that I think they let too many people in at once and could enhance the experience by limiting capacity a bit more. read more

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Vanessa R.

162

4 years ago

This was a cool and fun experience to do in Chicago with a group of friends. Not only it was a place to take fun photos but each section had a snack waiting for you and all of them were good. They also have a QR code that you can take with you so you can scan it and it stores all the photos you took with their cameras of each section of the event. I definitely recommend experiencing this with friends and family! read more

Color Factory - Waiting area before entering - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Green ball pit - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Color Factory - Entrance to color factory - Art Museums Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Emily D.

2 years ago

It is fun for young kids. There were some college kids blocking the exhibits by taking several IG photos. But overall it was a fun and unique thing to do on a rainy day. read more

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233 S Wacker Dr
Lower Level 2
Chicago, IL 60606
The Loop
Directions
(347) 378-4071
Call Now
Visit Website
https://colorfactory.co

Hours

What time does Color Factory open?

Color Factory opens at 10:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday.Color Factory opens at 9:00 AM on Saturday.

What time does Color Factory close?

Color Factory closes at 7:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday and Saturday.

Mon-Fri, Sun 10:00 AM - 7:00 PMSat 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Other Amenities

Does Color Factory have free WiFi?

Yes, Color Factory has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Come JUMP into color! Visit Color Factory, a brand new interactive art museum open NOW at Willis Tower in Chicago!

Ask the Community - Color Factory

How's parking ?? Do you pay for parking is there free parking lot?

No free parking. We had parked on the street by Giordano's.

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When is the best time to visit if we don't want to deal with the crowd?

We visited the museum on Saturday 4 pm. And it was pretty much our group until the last room. Also going in winter be better

View 1 more answer

Is there a locker to store my jacket and bags before going in?

Yes! There's a coat check area

View 3 more answers

Is this good for 3-6 year olds?

Yes! It is very interactive and is fun for all ages.

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View All 5 Questions

Review Highlights - Color Factory

“There are cameras set up where you scan your QR code and the photos are sent to your email after your visit.”

Mentioned in 16 reviews

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What a fabulous place for various artists and artwork! It was great to see all the different pieces…read moreand styles in this collection. The art institute is huge and covers a wide variety of different styles. It's a big place so expect to spend some time here. Map shows different levels and different stairs and elevators leading to different places. They even have a cafe in the 3rd floor. Really cool place to check out in Chicago while you're here. They do have free lockers for large backpacks and items near the front.

My husband and I visited the Art Institute of Chicago on 6/6…read more During our visit, we got to see the Korean National Treasures: 2000 Years of Art exhibit. We spent a lot of time in the Modern Art wing. There is so much to see and experience there. We were there for a few hours, but I'd say you really need a whole day if you want to attempt to see everything.

Members lounge is worth the investment- even for an out of towners! Free coffee, tea, views, bathroom

Sculpture

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Finally visited this River North museum during my return to Chicago. Since I wasn't a CHI/IL…read moreresident, the adult ticket price was $22, however you can also opt for the Pay As You Wish option, which is essentially Suggested Donation. While the museum is 4 floors, the exhibits weren't as plentiful. The 1st floor is basically their cafe. The 2nd and 4th floors are prob the floors with more artwork. The 3rd fl felt like an "in-between" floor. Thankfully, the Yoko Ono exhibit was on display, which featured several interactive activations, like a Wish Tree or writing on a wall, which were fun. Their Museum Shop also spans from floors 1-2. I wouldn't say that this museum has the popular artists. The overall artworks are a mix of abstract, photography, and mixed media. I wouldn't recommend it as a "Must See" for tourists, personally. However, I'm an art enthusiast and still thought it was a decent museum to walk through. Perhaps opt for the Suggested Donation for this one.

I loved my experience! I really appreciate the free Tuesday nights for Illinois residents. That's…read moresuch a treat! Beautiful museum with multiple floors, excellent customer service, plenty of comfortable seating, cool gift shop, and a cafe and restaurant too. It has everything I need! The vibes are good here. I enjoyed all the floors and saw an impressive variety of art. I also wanted to see the Yoko Ono exhibit and I really enjoyed it. I appreciated how interactive it was. There were a few writing stations with activities, such as writing about your mom and taping it to the wall, and writing a wish on a tag and tying it to the wish tree. One room was blue and there were blue markers available and people were encouraged to add to it. Fabulous venue!

Takashi Murakami

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Chicago Architecture Center

A neat small place to learn about Chicago architecture and it's development, with short…read more timelines on the walls and miniature model of the city and another ofWrigley Field. I bought a perfect, sturdy canvas bag labeled Chicago Architecture Center.

Entry to the museum is only five dollars if you show them your ticket from the First Lady boat…read moretour. The ground floor has a short eight minute clip with information about the city. There is also a great display of the city as well as a Wrigley ballpark exhibit. Unfortunately, the upstairs is currently being renovated, so there was not a lot to see this trip. They have a great gift shop.

The Chicago City Model Experience is the star attraction in the Chicago Gallery, featuring more than 4,000 buildings & interactive elements.

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WNDR Museum

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I think all the folks complaining about the experience should try experiencing it with a little…read morekid. I came with my SIL and my 19 month old nephew on a quiet Sunday. He had been cooped up in the house for a few days due to weather and needed to get out and about. My brother had taken him about 6 months ago and he enjoyed it even as a baby so I was hype to see it with him now that he's a little older. Rundown: -SIL paid for the tix so I dunno how much it cost -easy parking -no lines around 11am on a summer Sunday -in and out in about 45 minutes Notable exhibits: -the first one is an eye scan. I have soft tissue injury icks but I survived -the jellyfish mirror room - kids (and adults like me) go wild for this -any of the tactile ones where you touch and music happens -the ball and mirror room. Nephew went crazy for this as balls are his fave thing. -My ABSOLUTE fave was the DJ beats making room. I mixed some sounds while nephew danced. Some of us writing reviews for this place are old, jaded, have "seen it all" and seem to be approaching this from a transactional angle - I spent this so I want such and such experience. But if you watch a child's eyes light up at all the colors and sounds, watch how excited they get when they realize that their movement and their touch changes the floor pattern or the music, then you really get to experience what the place is about - Wonder!

Wasn't sure what to expect but this place was great to explore. This would be a great time for the…read morewhole family. Interactive rooms, areas where other guests were taking photos, bright and colorful. Staff was very nice and very helpful. Getting through the museum and for guidance. The location was easy to find and there is parking close by.

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(1.5k reviews)

1.3 mi

We visited the Field Museum with one special goal in mind: our youngest son's favorite dinosaur is…read morethe Spinosaurus, and this is the only museum in the United States with a mounted Spinosaurus skeleton. That alone made the trip worthwhile for our family. The museum itself is absolutely outstanding. We started in the lower level, where the Underground Adventure exhibit was one of our favorite experiences. From there, we worked our way through each floor, and every exhibit seemed to impress us more than the last. Whether it was dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, gems, wildlife, or natural history, there was something fascinating around every corner. The exhibits are beautifully designed, informative, and engaging for both children and adults. We could have easily spent two full days exploring everything the museum has to offer and still found more to see. If you're visiting Chicago, the Field Museum is an absolute must-see. Whether you're a dinosaur enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an incredible museum experience, there truly is something here for everyone.

1 star! This museum has gone DOWN HILL sadly as I used to love this place…read more First off all the RUDE African American Lady on the side of the museum would not let us enter from her gate. She said the museums closing in 45min so we can't enter from her gate anymore like WTF? We already have pre-paid tickets why not let us in to meet the rest of our group already in. She was trying to convince us to call them to come out to meet us instead and to just skip even entering the museum at all. So we walked ALL THE WAY AROUND to the front entrance and they let us walk right in, again TOTALLY RUDE and LAZY that she didn't want to work anymore and let us in and she arbitrarily stop working/letting anyone in her gate 45minutes to closing. This was on May 31st, 2026 BTW if you want reference to who was working that day. Then to make things EVEN WORSE.....there was some cracked out drugged out teenager like totally methed/tweeked/cracked out with no clothes on the 2nd floor. Security did not remove him from the museum instead they just let him act like a total cracked out mess and then he starts vomiting all over himself and that entire section like WTF??? So they let this guy and his friends/family just disrupt that entire middle section of the 2nd floor to do this? Like why didn't security just kick him and his group out of the museum? He was freaking naked and vomiting and high as hell??? Was there even security working that day? Again this was May 31st, 2026 about 30minutes until closing if you need reference and want to even check security cameras of both of these horrible situations that occurred. This visit was so bad we may just skip this museum all together next time and maybe you should too unless you want a naked crackhead teenager vomiting all over you!

Ancient Americas Totem Pole

Main lobby

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Driehaus Museum

4.6

(159 reviews)

1.1 mi

Wizard of Oz & Tiffany lamps exhibit extended thank goodness! Extremely courteous staff who take…read morethe time out of their day to answer any questions about the house's history! $15 tickets for students with ids, admission ends an hour before close. Kiddy corner to McCormick house as well.

Driehaus Museum is beautiful! It is a smaller museum that features stunning art and architecture. I…read morewas able to get a student discount for my ticket, so I only paid $13. If I had paid more, I think I would have been a little disappointed. They offer tours throughout the day and I wish I had joined one. There is a little bit of signage throughout, but I think I would have gotten more out of it with a guide. The bathrooms are located in the basement and they are spotlessly clean. There is a small gift shop on the third floor which has a variety of nice Chicago and gilded age themed gifts. Driehaus Museum was truly a feast for the eyes. I'm not sure I'll come back, as I feel like I've seen what I needed to see, but I'm glad I stopped in. It is beautiful!

Fireplace

Tiffany lamps

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Intuit Art Museum

4.6

(53 reviews)

1.5 mi

Intuit Art Museum has recently completed a massive renovation that expanded the facility threefold…read moreor so. Intuit features self-taught art by artists many of whom have a Chicagoland connection. My lovely wife and I have been to the "old" museum before, and it was an eye-opener to visit yesterday (Memorial Day) during a special free admission Grand Re-Opening weekend (the regular admission fee has also tripled to $15 from its former $5 ticket price). The star attraction is the recreation of Henry Darger's apartment and studio, along with a celebration of his works and methodologies. There are also spaces for the interesting and diverse Permanent Collection, as well as Special Exhibitions. Also interesting is the fact that the museum featuring self-taught art has bathrooms with fairly posh fixtures. Intuit Art Museum is not far from the Chicago Blue Line station. Check out the compact but cute gift shop before you leave.

A museum that celebrates the self-taught, accepts the "outsider" and values intuitive art. Current…read moreexhibit focuses on the im/migrants of Chicago. At the time of my visit, the entrance fee was $15. I live that I was able to see every piece in the museum display within 2 hours. Worth it

"Catalyst: Im/migration and Self-taught Art in Chicago" exhibition. Photo by by Cheri Eisenberg

Permenant collection in the Susann Craig Gallery. Photo by by Cheri Eisenberg

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"Catalyst: Im/migration and Self-taught Art in Chicago" exhibition. Photo by by Cheri Eisenberg

Museum of Illusions

Miana, was amazing. She took pictures. She gave us some good feedback and a lot of education. She…read moremade the experience one notch above other experiences!! Thank you Miana!!!! Carla Work

This was a super quick experience... 30-45 minutes max... but it was pretty neat if you like this…read moresort of thing. Basic illusions with some neat instagram moments. If you're expecting an afternoon of experiences you'll probably be disappointed. I think if you know what you're getting you'll probably have a swell time. Staff was friendly and helpful. Everything was clean and was in working order.

Beuchet Chair Illusion

Optical Illusions

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Illusion

International Museum of Surgical Science

4.0

(184 reviews)

2.2 mi

I went there for an event last night, but we got full reign of the museum. We did a scavenger hunt…read moreso we got to see every inch of this place. Chicago has a bunch of these smaller niche museum, but I thought this one was one of the better ones. It's an an historic house that would have overlooked the Lake before LSD existed. The exhibits were all pretty good, but my favorite was eye care. They had some great optometry artifacts and a collection of sunglasses over the years. They also have quite a bit of original art, mostly in sculpture form which is both odd, but still important. Another thing I liked was that it wasn't overly graphic. There's a plastic surgery section that has a few slightly unsettling portraits of people maimed during WWI. I mean, I kind of felt more bad for those poor people which I think was the point. If I were to give it all a rating, it's a light PG13. If there are any downsides, the place is a little on the expensive side for its size, but they're constantly running events that include admittance. They also seem to lean on some kind of artist or researcher that does a lot of dream stuff. I didn't like his stuff as much. Also, the sections are a little disorganized, but that might be spacing in issues. Either way, this was a pretty interesting place. I'm betting they do an awesome Halloween event because it's a little spooky, but all educational. The gift shop is neat too!

Its too spooky for me. If you like bones, skeletons and historic surgical items. This is the place…read morefor you. This is not a place for the timid. Its great for halloween for things that go bump in the night. The second floor library is impressive reading to health related books. The adjoining room is filled with tall statues with histories related to medicine and health.

Second level rooms

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Second level rooms

Adler Planetarium

The Adler is so, much easier to see the whole museum in one visit vs the Field Museum…read more We watched one of the 3 movies, and i wish we had watched the other two as well. It was a delight to relax and learn about our beautiful moon. Lots of cool exhibits, some interactive and some hands on play for kids. If you or a family member have the slightest passion for space, this is 10/10.

Small museum with some Interesting exhibits to walk thru. Visited late afternoon and didn't realize…read morethey close at 4pm so we were rushed out after catching the last show. We had a little time while waiting for the show to start so we strolled thru Mission Moon, planet explorers, & other worlds. - Cute photo op with a "flag on the moon" - a couple interactive exhibits - Restrooms are on the mid-level floor and are super busy if you catch it after a show or closing time - mid-level also has vending machines for ice cream, chips, candy, and water but NO prices listed! You have to select it and then pay! Not a fan of that. 16oz of Dasani water was $4.75! The show was entertaining and relaxing. I forgot what it was called? Something about constellations? The guide was knowledge and did a great job but also... I was so comfy and it was so dark I fell asleep a little lol!

Walking to the observatory to look at the moon and fireworks

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Thompson Farm

U pick strawberries were a blast. The strawberries were red and juicy. Lots of strawberries to…read morechoose from.

Beautiful huge sunflower farms & pumpkins in the fall. Have got to catch the sunflowers at peak to…read moresee large blooms. Not when I was there. Great friendly service. Worth a visit. Bees around but dress the right colors, don't swat or move abruptly, leave them alone and they will give you the same respect.

Family photos in the pumpkin field at Thompson Farm in Bristol, WI.

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Merrillville Farms

5/5 Awesome experience! Ginger (owner) was super friendly, talkative, and kind! Got taken on a…read moresurprise date here by my gf and had a great time! We came at 4 pm on a Tuesday - literally nobody else on the farm, had it completely to ourselves! We got our buckets from her and got sent off to pick blueberries! Lots of bushes, beautiful farm, cool chickens (a lot of them, off to the side of the field), cute cat, bee hives off to the side, old machinery - honestly just a gorgeous setting. Highly recommend as a date idea, or just to go for fun! Affordable, and very tasty blueberries (and shamrocks )

Always a pleasant visit Everyone is very kind and always a good selection! I usually take my…read moreGrandchildren and it encourages them to try new things!

Blueberries

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Chickens

Tacos Y Tamales Festival

3.2

(13 reviews)

1.5 mi

2025 Review! Same Fest, New Location! Tacos & Tamales Fest…read moreis now on Blue Island Ave between Wolcott & Ashland. Their new location is so much better to space out the crowd, offer better street parking/access to public transportation, and allows for more vendors! They had the similar mix of local businesses, corporate freebies, artist tents, and (3) music stages; but, I'm already looking forward to seeing how they continue to grow next year.

I usually skip food festivals because I hate crowds, but this is one I'd been looking forward to…read morefor weeks. I don't eat good tamales very often and it was very convenient to have one location with all of the local venders so that I could try multiple restaurants at once. -Narrowing down which restaurant was my favorite to avoid future disappointments. Hands down, Yvolina's was my favorite. The chicharron tamale with green mole sauce was still in my mind when I woke up this morning. But sadly, I had to eat a grapefruit instead. ::sad face:: They run about $10 each, but are very large. I did also enjoy Yvolina's Chicken Tinga tamale, but the chicharron is the one I'd go back for. Didn't love the churros from Xurro, but I'm a pastry chef and make churros quite often. Maybe I just prefer my own. I ordered the churro s'more and wouldn't order again. It was all way too dry. Not enough chocolate either. There were many kinds of venders. If tamales aren't your thing, you aren't out of luck. With tacos, tortas, burritos, quesadillas etc.. sold up and down the streets, there's something for everybody. My only regret was not ordering the street corn that everyone seemed to me walking around eating. As much of a pain it was to be raining, it was the perfect time to go. The crowds were very minimal. It was still a lively bunch though. Many people dancing in the streets as the music blasted in the air. I very much enjoyed my evening and will definitely return next year. Parking is a bit of a beast. Prepare to have to park a bit far and walk.

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Giovanni H.

209

103

3 years ago

The Color Factory in Chicago, IL is a deep and immersive experience that celebrates the joy and beauty of colors. As an interactive art installation, it offers a unique and visually stunning journey that will captivate visitors of all ages. Upon entering the Color Factory, you are greeted with a burst of color and a cheerful atmosphere. The staff is friendly and welcoming, setting the tone for an enjoyable experience. The well-designed exhibition layout leads visitors through various rooms and spaces filled with colorful displays and interactive installations. One of the highlights of the Color Factory is the attention to detail in each room. Every corner is thoughtfully decorated with colorful murals, sculptures, and artistic installations from floor to ceiling. Different materials, textures, and lighting effects create a truly immersive environment that sparks creativity and wonder. The interactive elements throughout the exhibition allow visitors to engage with the art actively. From oversized ball pits filled with colorful balls to interactive light displays and sensory experiences, there is no shortage of ways to interact and play with colors. These interactive installations are entertaining and educational, teaching visitors about color theory and the impact of colors on our emotions. Another aspect worth mentioning is the variety of activities available. The Color Factory offers something for everyone, including art installations, photo opportunities, and even a sweet treat or two. Each room presents a different experience, ensuring no two visits are identical. However, it's worth noting that the Color Factory can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours and weekends. This can detract from the overall experience as you may have to wait in line for certain activities or feel rushed in some areas. Plan your visit during off-peak hours or consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long wait times. Regarding value for money, the ticket prices at the Color Factory are on the higher side. While the experience is undeniably enjoyable, some visitors may find the cost slightly steep, particularly if they have a large group or family. However, considering the uniqueness of the exhibition and the effort put into creating a visually stunning experience, many visitors find it well worth the price. Overall, the Color Factory in Chicago, IL, is a delightful and imaginative experience that celebrates the power of colors. It offers a visually striking journey filled with interactive installations and artistic displays that will leave a lasting impression. While it can be crowded and relatively expensive, it's sheer joy and creative inspiration make it a worthwhile visit for anyone looking for a colorful and memorable adventure. read more

Crystal R.

810

770

3734

3 years ago

If you're looking for an unforgettable and visually stunning experience in Chicago, the Color Factory is an absolute must-visit! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a burst of vibrant colors and creative energy that left me completely mesmerized. The Color Factory is an immersive art installation like no other. Every room is thoughtfully designed to engage your senses and ignite your imagination. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, an art lover, or just someone looking for a unique and enjoyable day out, this place has something for everyone. One of my favorite aspects of the Color Factory is how interactive it is. You're not just a passive observer; you become part of the art. From jumping into a pool of colorful balls to discovering hidden surprises in the various rooms, it's an adventure that encourages you to play, explore, and connect with your inner child. The attention to detail in each room is truly remarkable. The creators have done an incredible job curating a diverse range of art installations, each with its own theme and story. The staff members are friendly and enthusiastic, adding to the overall positive atmosphere. And let's not forget the treats! The Color Factory offers delightful and Instagram-worthy snacks and drinks throughout the experience, making it even more enjoyable. As a visitor, you'll also receive a map with prompts to guide your journey through the exhibit, which adds an element of discovery and surprise. It's like a colorful scavenger hunt that keeps you engaged at every turn. I can't stress enough how much fun I had at the Color Factory. It's a place that brings joy, creativity, and inspiration to life. I left with a huge smile on my face and a camera roll full of amazing photos. Whether you're a Chicago local or just passing through, make sure to carve out some time for the Color Factory. It's an extraordinary experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of color and art. Don't miss out on this colorful adventure in the Windy City! read more

Karli S.

1 year ago

A Fun, Vibrant Experience at Color Factory Chicago--But Could Use More Interactivity Visiting Color Factory Chicago was a fun and visually exciting experience, filled with vibrant, immersive installations that made for some incredible photo opportunities. From the moment you step inside, you're surrounded by bold colors, creative designs, and playful exhibits that are designed to spark joy and curiosity. The space itself is well thought out, with each room offering a unique theme and aesthetic. The ball pit, in particular, was a standout--it felt like being a kid again, diving into a sea of color. The curated color-themed treats along the way were a nice touch, adding to the sensory experience. However, while the installations were beautiful and made for great photos, I found myself wishing for more interactive elements. Some exhibits felt more like walk-through art pieces rather than fully immersive experiences. A bit more hands-on engagement or interactive storytelling could really elevate the experience and make it feel more dynamic. Overall, Color Factory Chicago is definitely worth a visit, especially if you love art, photography, and playful design. It's a great spot for a fun outing, but adding more interactive elements would take it from good to truly unforgettable! One thing that could enhance the experience would be a beverage station or tasting element to complement the sweet treats throughout. Having a selection of drinks--perhaps themed to match the colors of the rooms--would add another fun and interactive layer while also balancing the flavors offered along the way. read more

Uncle R.

3 years ago

Not worth the high ticket price and really only for younger kids. We thought this might be interesting like the Museum of Illusions but left disappointed. For abour $90 (two adult tickets) it was far shorter than expected. Some neat effects like the balloons, but overall underwhelming. Little kids will probably enjoy it; just advertise it that way, please. Also, please don't keep asking for email and phone number repeatedly at multiple points while trying to get tickets or starting the tour. read more

Jeremy M.

2 years ago

Visiting the Color Factory was an impressive and immersive experience involving not only color but all your senses as well. You'll be tasting, feeling, and perhaps even smelling colors as you advance through this delightful journey. It's an engaging experience for all ages, with ample photo opportunities and delicious treats around every corner. This vibrant adventure is well worth your time and promises to leave you with unforgettable memories. Highly recommended! read more

Jada T.

3 years ago

OMG! This was the highlight of my trip. You should definitely go and check out this place. It has a very fun rooms to visit. My favorite part of this experience is the ball pit. And I also like how it makes you feel it makes you feel bubbly and happy. The employees are very nice and take care of you. Another part I like is how you get a QR code to take pictures. The pictures came out very good and high-quality track in the end. I was a very in knowledge. read more

Stacy B.

6 months ago

Visited the Color Factory in Chicago and left with mixed feelings. It was definitely fun and interactive, and the staff was ok. The rooms are bright and creative, and it's a good spot for photos. That said, I expected a little more of a "wow" factor for the price. It felt pretty touristy, and while it was enjoyable, it didn't completely blow me away. Overall, a fun experience just not as memorable as I hoped. read more

Ro J.