WNDR Museum
Pop-up museums are all the rage right now. They are basically art installations, that temporarily reside in empty warehouses. People love them because they are fun, interactive, and extremely Instagramable. Happy Place and 29 Rooms are two of the more famous ones to Chicago. I came across the WNDR Museum through a photographer I follow on Instagram. At the time, the museum was not even finished yet, but I was fascinated by the buzz around the Infinity Mirror Room. This exhibit was created by Yayoi Kusama, and is the first ever piece (of hers) to come to Chicago. My wife and I bought tickets as soon as they went on sale. Due to some construction delays we were unable to go on our scheduled date. We were then pushed back again because they wanted to re-schedule on the same day we ran the half marathon; which was just not happening. Finally, we made it!
When I was younger, I remember going to a science museum called COSI (Center of Science and Industry). We took a lot of class trips there, and it was extremely fun to learn through interaction. In some ways, I would compare WNDR to this. Their tag line is to "Step into a space that reveals the wonder of the natural world around us". As you walk through there are interesting facts, quotes from famous scientists and philosophers, and many artistic perspectives on space, light, and sound. I will admit there is not as much education occurring, but overall I found a very nostalgic feel. You see grown adults acting like kids, and being fascinated by the environment created. Sometimes it's nice to have an excuse to be a kid again, without babysitting or actually having a kid. Annie and I both had a great time, and loved playing in the unique exhibits.
Start to finish the museum took us 2hrs to walk through. This could be shorter or longer, depending on how much you want to take in, and how many pictures/videos you decide to take. Get there at the time of your visit, because they will not let you start until your ticketed slot. The employees are very enthusiastic, and encourage you to take your time to enjoy everything at your own pace. I never felt pressured to move faster, or that I was being a bother. I can not speak for everyone that goes to WNDR, but the fellow observers while we were there were very nice. What I mean, is that it seems to draw a pleasant crowd. People are willing to take pictures (for you), are patient, and respect your individual space.
Overall, it was a truly great experience. Aside from the art there is free candy, dip and dots, and even a poem writer (yes we got a poem written for our dog haha). At $32 per ticket, it is a nice little fun adventure. I would recommend to anyone looking to just be a kid again :)
When I was younger, I remember going to a science museum called COSI (Center of Science and Industry). We took a lot of class trips there, and it was extremely fun to learn through interaction. In some ways, I would compare WNDR to this. Their tag line is to "Step into a space that reveals the wonder of the natural world around us". As you walk through there are interesting facts, quotes from famous scientists and philosophers, and many artistic perspectives on space, light, and sound. I will admit there is not as much education occurring, but overall I found a very nostalgic feel. You see grown adults acting like kids, and being fascinated by the environment created. Sometimes it's nice to have an excuse to be a kid again, without babysitting or actually having a kid. Annie and I both had a great time, and loved playing in the unique exhibits.
Overall, it was a truly great experience. Aside from the art there is free candy, dip and dots, and even a poem writer (yes we got a poem written for our dog haha). At $32 per ticket, it is a nice little fun adventure. I would recommend to anyone looking to just be a kid again :)
Infinity Mirror Room (above)
Review: 4/5
WNDR Museum Information:
https://wndrmuseum.com/#about
1130 W. Monroe St (West Loop)
Chicago, IL 60607
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