Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Illuminarium Chicago and answer any questions you may have.
General Questions
What is Illuminarium?
From exhilarating natural wonders to enriching cultural moments and beyond, Illuminarium delivers a sensory experience like no other by fully immersing you in the world’s most extraordinary experiences.
The attraction is brought to life through an unprecedented blend of 4K laser projection providing guests a connected and shared entertainment journey. Audio beams create a unique and precise sound experience for each individual. In-floor haptics produce realistic sensations for visitors, such as the ground-shaking with an elephant’s stomp or leaving a footprint on the moon as you walk. Our cinematic immersion will place you into the middle of the narrative unfolding around you. This is achieved without wearable hardware of any kind - this is not a 3D or 4D experience.
Strobe effects, gentle floor vibration, immersive sound, and realistic & responsive projection are all part of the experience, but nothing is intended to be frightening or disorienting. The intensity of the various elements will depend on the featured spectacle.
The attraction experience takes place completely indoors.
Will Illuminarium be coming to any other cities?
To see all the cities we are visiting, please visit our directory webpage here. Please keep an eye on our social media channels for announcements of new cities!
What dates will you be in Chicago?
Illuminarium is open at Navy Pier until September 30, 2024.
Where specifically are you located?
Navy Pier 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago IL 60611
What safety measures are in place for Covid-19?
Illuminarium is following the approved guidelines below:
- Timed ticket sales to help reduce congestion and capacity.
- Increased cleaning practices of high touch surfaces with approved cleaning products.
- Contactless transactions only to lessen transmission risk.
- Masks are recommended inside the venue.
When should I arrive?
Please ensure you arrive promptly at the start time as indicated on your ticket so you can fully enjoy both experiences.
If I miss my entry time or am running late, can I still get in?
At this time, we cannot guarantee entry outside of the entry time on your ticket. If you miss your entry time or arrive late and we are unable to accommodate you, no refunds will be issued.
Can I bring my baby, and do they need a ticket?
Yes, babies and children of all ages are welcome to attend the daytime show. Children 2 years and younger enter the show for free and do not require a ticket when accompanying an adult with a ticket.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes, strollers are permitted. However, there will be no facilities for storing and parking strollers or leaving them unattended.
Is there seating available?
Seating is limited and is only available on a first-come, first-served basis. As seating is limited, we encourage guests to leave available seating for those with mobility limitations.
Will there be a gift shop?
Yes, Illuminarium has a cashless gift shop available at the end of the show!
Can I bring in food or beverages?
No, food or beverages are not permitted inside the exhibit.
Can I bring a camera?
Absolutely! Photos for non-commercial use are allowed and we encourage you to share them on social media. Please tag Illuminarium Chicago on Facebook and Illuminarium Chicago on Instagram and hashtag #Illuminarium when you do.
There are some limitations, however: recording the event, flash photography, professional photography and professional videography are not permitted. Tripods and other professional photography equipment are not permitted. Please contact chicago@illuminarium.com for more information.
Can I bring bags into the exhibit?
We encourage you to leave valuables, large bags and other personal belongings at home. For the safety of our visitors and the exhibit, all bags entering or leaving the exhibit, including purses, are subject to inspection. Backpacks and duffel bags are not permitted in the exhibit.
Can I touch the screens during the show?
No, we kindly ask all attendees to refrain from touching the screens during the experience.
Ticketing
Where do I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be purchased right here at https://www.illuminarium.com/Chicago
How much are tickets?
Illuminarium Your Way Age 13+ - $34.99
Child Timed Entry - $24.99
For children ages 3-12
Children 2 And Under
Free & do not require a ticket
Seniors 65+ - $31.99
Valid ID required
Premium Flex - $44.99
Premium Flex tickets allow Anytime Entry (arrive at any showtime on the date listed on your ticket). Enjoy both Illuminarium' s Wild: A Safari Experience and Space: A Journey to the Moon & Beyond.
VIP Experience - $54.99
VIP tickets include Anytime Entry (arrive at any showtime on the date listed on your ticket), priority entry to the show, VIP Lanyard and Badge, VR Experience, and a $5 merchandise credit to the Illuminarium Gift Shop. Enjoy both Illuminarium' s Wild: A Safari Experience and Space: A Journey to the Moon & Beyond.
CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS AT THE DOOR?
Tickets can be purchased at the door, subject to availability. To secure a timeslot and best pricing available, please order your tickets in advance online
Are tickets refundable?
All tickets are non-refundable, as stated in the terms and conditions agreed to prior to successfully completing any ticket purchase.
How do I present my tickets at the show?
You can print a physical copy of your tickets, or you can present the QR code for your tickets off a smartphone or other device.
Can I gift tickets that are under my name?
Yes, you can. Please ensure your guests have a physical copy of the tickets printed to be admitted entry if the tickets are gifted. Additionally, we require valid ID to be presented alongside the tickets prior to entry to ensure eligibility for the ticket type.
Accessibility
Are there flashing lights or loud sounds?
Yes, Illuminarium contains bright lights that may cause discomfort for people with photosensitive epilepsy or other medical conditions. If this may affect your experience, please consult with a medical professional prior to attending the show.
Our exhibit has music playing that might be slightly louder than normal and may cause discomfort to people suffering from sensitivity to loud sounds. If this is your case, we recommend you are accommodated with a proper noise reduction device and consult with a medical professional prior to attending the show.
Can Illuminarium trigger vertigo or motion sickness?
Yes, the moving images, sounds and lights involved in the immersive experience may cause dizziness, motion sickness or vertigo. If this may affect your experience, please consult with a medical professional prior to attending the show.
Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, we allow service animals such as guide dogs. No pets are permitted.
Do you have wheelchairs or scooters for rent?
Navy Pier provides wheelchairs to those who need them at the Guest Experience information desks.
Is the show wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Illuminarium is accessible for guests of all abilities. Our show welcomes wheelchairs, mobile scooters, canes, etc.
Is there seating available?
Seating is limited and is only available on a first-come, first-served basis. As seating is limited, we encourage guests to leave available seating for those with mobility limitations.
Is Illuminarium suitable for the deaf/hard of hearing?
Yes, although we do not provide interpreters. The majority of Illuminarium is visual and explained in text.
I have a child with autism, spd or adhd. Will you have sensory bags/items?
We will not have audio sensory items available for guests, however, we encourage parents and caregivers to bring appropriate sensory stimulants and items that you may require. Please email Chicago@Illuminarium.com ahead of your visit for more information.