Giant Slide Lets Kids Feel the Power of Energy

A brand‑new attraction at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry invites visitors to experience energy in a literal way. The 33‑foot slide, part of the “Powering the Future” exhibit that opened on May 8, lets children glide down a steel tube while learning about the forces that keep our world moving.

• Speed & Sensation – The slide takes only ten seconds to reach the bottom, giving riders a quick burst of excitement.
• Visual Journey – Inside the tube, bright lights and circular windows light up as kids descend, mirroring how electrons flow through power lines.
• Safety & Accessibility – Children must be at least six years old and 44 inches tall, entering feet‑first. A handle bar above the entrance offers a grip for those who want to pull themselves in or use it as a launch point. A spiral staircase runs alongside the slide for those who prefer to climb up instead of sliding down.

The exhibit’s designers wanted to make energy feel tangible, and the slide helps achieve that by giving kids a physical sense of motion. Visitors can also touch an “Ice Wall,” where an infrared camera records their heat signature and displays it live on a screen, adding another interactive layer to the experience.

While some visitors may feel nervous looking down from the top, many are drawn by the promise of a thrilling ride. The slide has quickly become a highlight, with families lining up even before the museum opens to the public.

The exhibit also showcases historic technology, such as a 1923 electric car and a nuclear fuel rod assembly. These pieces provide context for the slide, reminding guests that energy has evolved over time and is present in everyday life.

Overall, the slide offers a fun way to explore science concepts, but it’s just one part of a broader educational experience that encourages curiosity about how our world is powered.