“Griffin Museum of Science and Industry to Renovate the Building’s South Portico with $10 Million Grant from Driehaus Foundation.

“The project will reopen the original south entrance, increase accessibility and enhance public spaces including an outdoor café and terrace.

“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.

“‘This project represents a pivotal moment for the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry as we honor its historic past while leading the museum forward,’ said Dr. Chevy Humphrey, President and CEO of Griffin MSI. ‘The Driehaus Foundation’s generosity allows us to enhance this iconic space while ensuring it is welcoming and accessible for all and continues a legacy of inspiration and engagement for decades of future visitors.’

“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 Driehaus Foundation is proud to play a part in the historic renovations at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry,’ said Anne Lazar, Executive Director of the Driehaus Foundation. ‘These plans offer a once in a lifetime opportunity to reopen the historic southern entrance and preserve the public space that had fallen into disrepair over time.’

“The upgrades to the Museum’s South Portico and entrance are also focused on increasing and improving accessibility. The restoration will incorporate a variety features, including an elevator, to provide accessible entrance to the museum and public spaces.

“‘Restoring the South Portico is not only about preserving a historic architectural treasure but also supporting the museum’s efforts to connect more deeply with the community,’ said David Vitale, Griffin MSI Board Chairman. “This project reflects the Board’s commitment to advancing the museum’s mission, and we are profoundly grateful to the Driehaus Foundation for making this vital project possible.'” (GMSI Press Release, 1/29/25)

Read the full press release at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Website

• GMSI South Portico Renovation Press Release, 1/29/25
• Griffin Museum of Science and Industry to restore South Portico; The museum will restore its South Portico with a $10 million grant from the Dreihaus Foundation, reopening the original entrance and improving access, Rafaela Jinich, Chicago Sun-Times, 1/29/25
• Museum Of Science And Industry Getting $10 Million Facelift; The museum will begin renovating its South Portico entrance this spring, adding an elevator, cafe and terrace overlooking the Jackson Park lagoon thanks to a Driehaus Foundation grant, Leen Yassine, Block Club Chicago, 1/29/25
• Griffin Museum of Science & Industry lands $10M grant to renovate historic South Portico,Brandon Dupré, Crain’s Chicago Business, 1/29/25
• Details And Funding Revealed For Reopening Of MSI’s South Entrance, Ian Achong, Chicago YIMBY, 1/31/25
• Griffin MSI nabs $10M grant for portico restoration, Hyde Park Herald, 1/29/25
• Griffin Museum of Science and Industry to renovate, reopen South Portico with $10M grant, ABC7 Chicago, 1/29/25