The International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS) is a museum located in Chicago, Illinois, dedicated to the history and development of surgery and related fields. Operated by the International College of Surgeons (ICS), the museum showcases a vast collection of art, artifacts, and exhibits covering both Eastern and Western medical practices.
Address: 1524 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60610, United States
Phone: +1 312-642-6502
Website: https://imss.org/
Map of International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS)
International Museum of Surgical Science History
The International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS) in Chicago, Illinois, is a museum dedicated to the history of surgery and related subjects. It’s a division of the International College of Surgeons (ICS) and features exhibits on Eastern and Western medicine, including artifacts, manuscripts, and art. The museum was founded by Dr. Max Thorek in 1935 and officially opened to the public in 1954.
International Museum of Surgical Science Director
The current director of the International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS) is Michelle Rinard. She holds the title of Director of Museum Operations and is also involved in events and programming at the museum. Michelle has been involved in the museum’s operations, including facilitating events and coordinating with vendors. She also played a key role in the recent “The Operating Room: Surgical Technology Then and Now” exhibition, making remarks at the opening and cutting the ribbon.
International Museum of Surgical Science Events
The International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS) hosts a variety of events, including art exhibits, artist talks, and special events like the “Memento Mori” gala. The museum also serves as a unique venue for special occasions like weddings and corporate events, offering elegant settings and exhibits.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Art Exhibits | Showcases contemporary art and medical history exhibits, like “Under The Skin” by Jenny Chernansky and Penny Cagney. |
| Artist Talks | Hosts talks to explore themes and techniques of exhibits, including those for “Under The Skin.” |
| Special Events | Organizes themed events such as the “Memento Mori” gala, offering unique guest experiences. |
| Wedding & Corporate Events | Provides an elegant and unique venue for weddings, corporate meetings, and special occasions. |
International Museum of Surgical Sciences, Chicago, Opening and Closing Hours
The International Museum of Surgical Science in Chicago usually opens at 9:30 A.M and closes at 5:00 PM on weekdays (Monday through Friday) and at 5:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Specifically, the museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
Which is the International Museum of Surgical Science Art
The International Museum of Surgical Science is a museum dedicated to the history, development, and progress of surgery and related fields in health and medicine. It’s a division of the International College of Surgeons and is located in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. The museum features exhibits that cover various aspects of Eastern and Western medicine, including artifacts, manuscripts, and artwork.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus | To improve understanding and appreciation of the history of surgery and related fields. |
| Collection | Contains art, artifacts, manuscripts, photos, paintings, sculptures, medical tools, skeletons, and other historical items related to medicine and surgery. |
| Exhibits | Displays collections through themed or surgery-related exhibitions. |
| Location | Located in Chicago, Illinois; part of the International College of Surgeons, a global surgical organization. |
| Activities | Offers educational programs like the interactive “Amputation Demonstration” simulating pre-anesthesia surgery. |
| Art | Features artworks honoring medical pioneers, including statues, busts, and portraits. |
Chicago Museum of Surgical Science free days
The International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS) in Chicago offers free admission on the third Friday of every month and throughout the month of May. They are also a member of the Museums for All program, which provides free or reduced admission to those receiving food assistance. Additionally, they are open seven days a week with specific hours.
- Third Friday of each month: Free admission for all visitors.
- The month of May: Free admission throughout the entire month.
- Museums for All: Free or reduced admission for those receiving SNAP benefits.
- Active Military: Free admission.
- Children under 7: Free admission.
International Museum of Surgical Science Admission
The International Museum of Surgical Science is open to the public with admission fees ranging from $15 to $25 for adults, with discounted rates for seniors, students, military personnel, educators, and children. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 5 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM.
| Admission Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $25 |
| Senior Citizens (65+), Students, Military, Educators | $18 |
| Children (4-13) | $15 |
| Children (3 and under) | Free |
| IMSS Members | Free |
Opening Hours:
- Monday through Friday: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
International Museum of Surgical Science Admission Ticket
The International Museum of Surgical Science charges $25.00 for adults, $18.00 for seniors (65+), students, military members, and educators (with ID), $15.00 for children ages 4-13, and children 3 and under are admitted free. IMSS members also receive free admission.
- Adults: $25.00
- Seniors (65+), Students, Military, Educators (with ID): $18.00
- Children (4-13): $15.00
- Children (3 and under): Free
- IMSS Members: Free
International Museum of Surgical Science Dentistry
The International Museum of Surgical Science, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a museum dedicated to the history, development, and advancement of surgery and related medical sciences. It is a division of the International College of Surgeons and features exhibits on various aspects of Eastern and Western medicine, including dentistry. The museum houses over 10,000 square feet of public galleries and an extensive collection of art and artifacts related to the history of medicine.
- Exhibits: The museum’s exhibits cover a broad range of topics, and while not exclusively dedicated to dentistry, they do feature dental tools, artifacts, and historical aspects of dental care.
- Collections: The museum’s collection includes items related to dentistry, such as dental chairs and instruments.
- Educational Focus: The museum aims to educate visitors about the history and progress of surgery and related medical fields, including dentistry.
International Museum of Surgical Science Admission Fees Discount
The International Museum of Surgical Science offers various discounts on its admission fees.
| Category | Price / Details |
|---|---|
| Free Admission | Children 3 and under, IMSS members |
| Discounted Admission | Senior Citizens (65+), Students, Military members, Educators (with ID) — $18 |
| Children (ages 4-13) — $15 | |
| Adults | $25 |
| Membership | Individual ($65): Free admission for cardholder + 1 guest, discounts on gift shop & events |
| Family ($100): Free admission for 2 adults + all children under 18 in same household + 1 guest, plus discounts |
Parking at International Museum of Surgical Science
The International Museum of Surgical Science (IMSS) in Chicago does not have on-site parking. Visitors have several options for parking near the museum, including validated parking at 1350 N Lake Shore Drive and the Chicago History Museum parking lot. Alternatively, visitors can use SpotHero to book parking in advance with discounted rates.
Parking Options:
- Validated Parking: You can park at a specific parking lot at 1350 N Lake Shore Drive or the Chicago History Museum parking lot and receive validation for a discounted rate.
- SpotHero: SpotHero offers various parking options, including garages and lots, with rates up to 50% off drive-up prices.
- Nearby Garages: Several parking garages are within walking distance of the museum, including James Kilmer Valet Garage and Treasure Island Garage.
- Street Parking: Street parking may be available, but it’s best to check the regulations and availability in the area.
