Founded in 1933, Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. It houses more than 35,000 artifacts and includes 400,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits. Visitors can enjoy live science experiences, tour a World War II submarine, and view a replica of the plane used by the Wright brothers.Parking and public transportation at The Museum of Science and IndustryOn-site parking is available at the museum's underground garage for a fee of $22 per vehicle. A metered outdoor lot is available a short walk from the museum. For visitors taking advantage of Chicago's public transportation system, bus access is available in front of the museum.Best and worst time to go to The Museum of Science and IndustryVisitors should consider arriving after 1 p.m., when the museum becomes less crowded. If you are planning to spend the day at the museum, try to arrive prior to opening time to get a place in line. September and October as well as January through March are the least busy months for the museum.Admission to The Museum of Science and IndustryA variety of ticket packages are available, with prices for adults ranging from $18-36. Tickets for visitors aged 3-11 range from $11-25. A total of fifty-two free admission days are available for Illinois residents. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours offered on various dates throughout the year. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.Must see and must do at The Museum of Science and IndustryA visit to the museum should include the U-505 Onboard Submarine Tour. The U-505 at the Museum of Science and Industry is one of only five still in existence and is the only submarine available for touring in the United States. The onboard tour takes fifteen minutes.Other places to visit near The Museum of Science and IndustryLess than 7 miles from the museum is Shedd Aquarium, featuring Beluga whales, the Abbott Oceanarium, sharks, stingrays, and live corral. Behind the museum, visitors can tour Jackson Park and its lagoons or the secluded Japanese Tea Gardens.Insider Tip for visitors to The Museum of Science and IndustryIn order to avoid long lines at the main ticket counter, purchase tickets inside the Henry Crown Space Center. Purchasing at this location will put you close to the U-505 Submarine Tour.Author's Bio: Heather Hurley is a publishing professional and freelance writer living in Carmel, Indiana. She has enjoyed visiting family-friendly attractions in Chicago.