The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is set to transform its historic South Portico, restoring its architectural splendor and enhancing visitor experience. The project is made possible through a $10 million grant from the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation — the largest grant awarded by the Foundation since it was established in 1983. Starting in spring 2025, the project will increase accessibility, add modern amenities and create vibrant public spaces. Upon completion in 2027, visitors will be able to access the Museum’s original south entry from Jackson Park and enjoy features such as a cafe and a terrace overlooking the park’s Lagoon and the nearby Obama Presidential Center, which is scheduled to open in 2026.  Originally designed by Charles Atwood for D.H. Burnham & Co as The Palace of Fine Arts for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry building is the only structure remaining from the exposition’s “White City.” These renovations will reopen the original main entry of the Museum and functionally reconnect the building to the Columbian Basin and the rest of Jackson Park. The Museum will remain open throughout construction, and there are no plans to limit public access to the road or the park.

Photo Credit: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry