THE FLYING NUNN

Spider-Man swings into Hyde Park

Sun. May 25, 2025 12:00 AM
by Jerry Nunn

The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is currently hosting the Chicago premiere of Marvel's Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing - The Exhibition! From now until February 8, 2026, special ticket holders will have a chance to see Spidey swing into action at 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive.

This special exhibition celebrates the legacy of the superhero character who is now over 60 years old. The story of a teenager bitten by a radioactive spider who gains special powers to fight crime has resonated with people over the years.

Spider-Man has been featured in multiple forms of media, including comic books, television and movies. Web slinger enthusiasts will discover a large amount of memorabilia and rare collectables such as action figures and unique toys inside the exhibition.

There are comic books on display, including the one with his first appearance in the Amazing Fantasy comic book number 15, published in 1962, which is worth a pretty penny. There are also sections depicting where this arachnid originated and both writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko are highlighted. Spider-Man's development over the years with other artists and depictions has been important to the franchise as well.

His popularity has risen and fallen throughout the six decades, just like similar Marvel superheroes. Movies have been vital to reinvigorate his following and original props from cinematic adaptations are housed inside glass cases for all to see.

Photograph opportunities begin right from the jump as visitors enter the exhibit. They will hear music played as they stroll around through the maze over the course of about an hour.

Music is played throughout the various rooms to reflect Spidey's history and past soundtracks.

Spider-Man has cultivated an impressive presence in Latin America over time and Spanish speakers are included in the text on the displays.

Dynamic costumes and photo pop-ups offer a chance to see villains like Doctor Octopus and the Green Goblin up close. The kiddies will love tracing and coloring opportunities for cartoon characters in a group setting before they enter the gift shop. The VIP pass offers 10% off at the store and allows untimed express entry.

There's so much to explore and immerse yourself in this webbed wall crawler's world, so swing before the spider leaves the building.

Visit msichicago.org to purchase a separate ticket for this spider-tingling exhibit for a limited time. Spider-Man 4 is set to be released in theaters in July 2026, True Believers!

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