International Museum of Surgical Science

International Museum of Surgical Science is at 1524 N. Lake Shore Dr. Housed within a 1917 limestone mansion in the historic Gold Coast neighborhood, the museum, a division of the International College of Surgeons (ICS), has exhibits on four floors that trace the history of medicine through early healing practices to modern surgical techniques including medical mysteries and inspired breakthroughs. Within the galleries, artifacts, illustrations and instruments as well as medically themed paintings and sculptures are on display.

The first floor features an early 20th-century apothecary shop where a waxwork pharmacist tells visitors about his products. The Hall of Immortals is filled with 10-foot-tall stone sculptures depicting some of the most famous men and women in medical history. Paintings in the Hall of Murals illustrate the development of surgery.

Note: Parking is available at parking garages at 1445 N. State Pkwy., 1350 N. Lake Shore Dr. and at the Chicago History Museum lot at 1730 N. Stockton Dr.

Guided tours are available. Time: Allow 2 hours, 30 minutes minimum.