Color Factory Chicago is a Crowd-Pleaser
Let’s be honest—parents aren’t exactly known for being effortlessly cool. But every once in a while, a place comes along that wins over even the toughest critics.
For teens, tweens, and photo-loving friends who can’t resist selfies and creative shots, Color Factory Chicago checks all the boxes.
Part art museum, part interactive experience, the Color Factory exhibits highlight elements of Chicago, like the colors of its flag and local delicacies.
Full of twists and turns, Color Factory Chicago will keep you guessing and entertained from start to finish.
in this article
Color Factory Chicago Stand Outs
Located in the lower level of Sears Tower (Willis Tower, if we must) the Color Factory is made up of 14 unique experiences knit together by color and sensation.
Not only are your eyeballs on a delightful journey, your tastebuds and other senses get to join the party, too.
Multiple mini snacks on the go – from macaroons to jelly beans to ice cream – were a delightful surprise.
And the easy hands-free photo system, with QR-codes and cameras strategically placed throughout the museum means you don’t have to need a phone to capture the fun.
Color Factory Chicago: Room Highlights
Walking through the one-way color trail is a take-your-time endeavor. You know you can’t go back, so you want to linger and experience every nook and cranny of every room before you move on to the next. Some of the rooms that gave use the biggest jolts are called out here.
Confetti Room: Have a blast throwing confetti at each other, capturing playful photos.
Minty Ball Pit: Jump and slide your way into a giant pit filled with soft, mint-colored balls.
Mirror Maze: Good luck keeping a straight face in this zany maze made entirely of mirrors and colorful things you can climb on.
Pop Rocks Color Quiz: Guess different flavors just by their colors—surprisingly tricky!
Windy Balloon Room: It’s a different kind of windy city with these air-propelled balloons floating all around you.
What You Get With Your Ticket
Snacks: There are free snacks like macaroons and jelly beans as you walk through the exhibits.
Photos: Don’t worry about taking pictures; there are cameras set up so you can get great family photos emailed to you for free.
Interactive Fun: Every exhibit has something fun to touch, play with, or participate in.
Kid & Teen Friendly: It’s designed to keep kids and tweens engaged and entertained.
Good Photo Opportunities: You’ll find plenty of cool spots to take photos with your friends
Practical Info
Location: Color Factory Chicago is inside Willis Tower, 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606. Enter through Jackson Boulevard and head to Lower Level 2.
Tickets: Starting at $29. For the best pricing, book online ahead of time
Duration: Plan for around 90 minutes.
What to Wear: Comfy shoes and cute clothes.
When to Visit: For fewer crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays.
Parking: Discounted parking is available at Traders Self-Park (326 S. Wells / 329 S. Franklin). Pre-book ahead of time or ask for a voucher at Coat Check in the Color Factory lobby.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a teen-friendly activity in Chicago, this is it.
Compared to other similar attractions like the Museum of Ice Cream, Color Factory Chicago offers more things to do and tastier treats, making it a better value for a family outing.
So, if you’re kinda into art, want an immersive experience that lets you taste, smell, and even hear color, Color Factory needs to be on your list.
