Spidey Swings into Science, Stories, and Superpowers at The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Scholastic Kid Reporter Evy Bingle pictured with Dr. Voula Saridakis, Head Curator of Collections and Archives

The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) in Chicago is one of the largest science museums in the world. It is full of exhibits — from a 40-foot tornado to a submarine the length of a city block. Right now, one exhibit is getting extra attention: Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition.

This traveling exhibit celebrates more than 60 years of Spider-Man. It shows how the famous web-slinger went from comic books to movie screens around the world. Visitors see rare comic art, real movie costumes, and interactive displays.

On June 22, 2025, I interviewed Dr. Voula Saridakis, Head Curator of Collections and Archives, and she gave me a tour of the Spider-Man exhibit. “Spider-Man is probably the most popular superhero in our culture, and the main reason I think that is because the character of Spider-Man is so relatable,” Dr. Saridakis explained.

The exhibit tells the story of Peter Parker, a teenager who becomes a hero after being bitten by a radioactive spider. He has many adventures including facing villains, saving New York, and managing his struggles with school, family, and doing the right thing.  

Comic books like Spider-Man are more than entertainment. They can help kids become stronger readers through relatable storylines, snippets of text and eye-catching visuals. “Comic books are fun to look at, they’re colorful, they’re picture stories. Young people are very connected to that because they get to see characters come to life through art,” Dr. Saridakis said.

Rare comic art on display at Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition

Some parts of the exhibit even focus on how comics are created. Legendary comic book creator, Stan Lee, is featured throughout the exhibit. It includes original art work, drawing panels, and story ideas. There is even an interactive section for visitors to learn to draw Spider-Man. “I hope that in visiting this exhibit people will realize that even superheroes have to deal with the real world, and we are not alone. Even people with superpowers struggle, like us, and that is perfectly okay,” Dr Saridakis said.

MSI hopes visitors see that stories, even with superheroes, can teach us about science, responsibility, and imagination. “Our mission is to inspire the inventive and creative genius in everyone by having interactive exhibits to engage everyone,” stated Dr. Saridakis.

Whether you are a Spider-Man superfan or just curious, this exhibit has something for everyone. It is open at MSI through February 8, 2026.