Griffin Museum Will Launch South Portico Renovation

A $22 million project will enhance accessibility and add public spaces to the Chicago museum by late 2027.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Home Renovation

Griffin Museum Will Launch South Portico Renovation

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The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry will host a groundbreaking ceremony on October 13, 2026, for a $22 million renovation of its South Portico. The project aims to improve public access and restore the site's entry for consistent use.

Why it matters

This project creates admission-free public spaces and critical ADA-accessible entrances at the historic Chicago site. It also expands the museum's offerings with plans for an outdoor cafe and new gathering areas in Jackson Park.

The renovation carries a $22 million budget, supported by a $10 million donation from the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation. Planned additions include an ADA-accessible entrance, a glass curtain wall, and a new outdoor cafe.

The players

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

This Chicago institution is located in Jackson Park and originally served as the Palace of Fine Arts during the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition.

Richard H. Driehaus Foundation

This organization provided a $10 million lead donation to support the museum's structural improvements and accessibility upgrades.

RAMSA

This architectural firm is responsible for designing the museum's South Portico renovation project.

The details

The design from RAMSA features a glass curtain wall enclosing the loggia and a new elevator system to improve visitor accessibility. The renovation marks a significant effort to return the South Portico entrance, which features six columns, to consistent public use.

1893: Building served as the main entrance for the World's Fair.
1904-1920: Building housed the Field Museum.
1933: Museum of Science and Industry opened.
October 13, 2026: Groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation.
Late 2027: Project completion expected.

Culture Shift

The renovation project follows a pattern of repurposing legacy structures first established by the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. This move reflects a broader trend of integrating historic preservation with modern accessibility requirements in major public buildings.

Residents can expect improved accessibility at the museum, including new entrance options and public gathering spaces. The project aims to provide admission-free areas for the local community by the end of 2027.

The takeaway

The transformation of the South Portico highlights how historic landmark buildings can be successfully updated for modern public needs. Visitors and local residents will eventually gain access to new amenities like the outdoor cafe and expanded public space.