What Museums are Open in Chicago for Free?

Chicago is a city filled with art, culture, and museums. There are so many museums in Chicago that it may be difficult to decide which one to visit. However, some of the best museums in Chicago offer free admission. In this blog post, we will discuss what museums are open in Chicago for free.

The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most renowned museums in the world. Visitors can see some of the most famous artwork, including American Gothic by Grant Wood and Nighthawks by Edward Hopper. Free admission is offered every Thursday from 5 pm to 9 pm for Illinois residents with proof of residency.

The Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art is a museum dedicated to contemporary art that has been around since 1967. It is located in the heart of downtown Chicago and is open to the public for free on Tuesdays. Visitors can see exhibits by some of the most innovative artists in the world.

The National Museum of Mexican Art

The National Museum of Mexican Art is one of the few museums that showcase Mexican art in the country. It is located in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago and is open to the public for free every day of the week. Visitors can see the works of Mexican and Mexican-American artists.

The Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is one of the city’s most important cultural institutions. It is located in a landmark building in the Loop and is home to art exhibits, concerts, lectures, and events. Admission is free every day.

The DuSable Museum of African American History

The DuSable Museum of African American History has been around since 1961 and is dedicated to exploring the contributions of African Americans to American culture. It is located in Chicago’s Washington Park neighborhood and has one free admission day per month.

The Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. It is located in Hyde Park and is open to the public for free on the following days for Illinois residents with proof of residency:- January: 6-9, 11-13, 18-20, 25-27
– February: 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-24
– March: 1-3, 8-10, 15-17

The Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum is a museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Chicago. It is located in Lincoln Park and is open to the public for free on Tuesdays.

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a museum dedicated to the natural history of the Chicago area. It is located in Lincoln Park and is open to the public for free on Thursdays.

The Oriental Institute Museum

The Oriental Institute Museum is a museum dedicated to exploring the history and culture of the ancient Near East. It is located on the campus of the University of Chicago and is open to the public for free every day.

Frequently Asked Questions: What Museums Are Open in Chicago for Free?

Chicago is home to some of the most spectacular museums in the United States. From art museums to science museums, there is something for everyone. Moreover, there are plenty of free museums in Chicago that offer visitors an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s culture, history, and scientific wonders without spending a fortune. In this post, we provide answers to some of the frequently asked questions regarding museums that are open in Chicago for free.

1. What museums are open in Chicago for free?

Chicago is home to several museums that are open for free. Here are some of the most popular museums:- The Art Institute of Chicago is free for Chicago residents every Thursday from 5-8pm.
– The Museum of Contemporary Art is free for Illinois residents on Tuesdays.
– The Chicago Cultural Center is free to the public and offers exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.
– The National Museum of Mexican Art is always free and celebrates the richness and complexity of Mexican culture.

2. Are there any free days for the major museums in Chicago?

Yes, there are several free days for some of the major museums in Chicago. Here are some of the museums that offer free days:- The Field Museum offers free admission to Illinois residents on select Mondays throughout the year.
– The Shedd Aquarium offers Illinois residents free admission on select weekdays from September to June.
– The Adler Planetarium offers Illinois residents free admission on select days throughout the year.

3. Are there any other free museums in Chicago?

Aside from the museums mentioned above, there are several free museums in Chicago. Here are a few examples:- The DANK Haus German American Cultural Center showcases the rich history of German Americans in Chicago and is always free.
– The Chicago Design Museum offers free admission and showcases the works of local and international designers.
– The Smart Museum of Art is always free and houses a collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

4. Is it possible to get free museum passes in Chicago?

Yes, it is possible to get free museum passes in Chicago. The Chicago Public Library offers free museum passes to several museums, including the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago. All you need is a library card to check out the passes.

5. Are there any discounts for students or military personnel?

Yes, some museums in Chicago offer discounts for students and military personnel. For example, the Art Institute of Chicago offers free admission to current military personnel and their families. Meanwhile, the Field Museum offers discounts to students and military personnel, but you must show your ID to receive the discounts.In

How to Visit Free Museums in Chicago

Chicago is known for its remarkable museums that showcase their unique culture and history. However, visiting museums can be quite expensive, especially for tourists. If you’re looking to experience the best museums in Chicago without spending a dime, don’t worry, there are plenty of free museums to choose from. In this guide, we’ll show you how to visit free museums in Chicago with clear step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Research Your Options

Chicago has many museums that offer free admission to visitors. However, their free hours and days can vary. To find the right museum that suits your schedule and interests, it’s essential to research your options. You can find useful information on websites like Choose Chicago, which gives detailed information on various museums, including their free days, hours, and admission fees.

Step 2: Plan Your Visit

Once you’ve researched and decided on which museum you want to visit, it’s essential to plan your trip accordingly. First, check the museum’s website for its opening and closing time to get an idea of how much time you’ll spend there. Secondly, check for any necessary reservations required, especially if you’re planning on visiting on the weekend or during public holidays.

Step 3: Arrive Early

If you’re planning on visiting a popular museum, chances are, you will encounter long queues at the entrance. To avoid the rush and make the most out of your visit, arrive early, at least 30 minutes before the museum opens. This way, you can enjoy exploring the museum’s exhibits without being hurried or feeling cramped.

Step 4: Take Advantage of Free Tours

Most of the free museums in Chicago offer free tours that are informative and engaging. It’s important to take advantage of these tours, as they offer a unique experience by providing in-depth knowledge about the museum’s exhibits and history. Additionally, these tours are led by experienced tour guides who ensure delivery of accurate and factual information.

Step 5: Focus on Exhibits That Interest You

Chicago’s museums are vast, so it’s essential to focus your attention on exhibits that appeal to your interests. This way, you get to have a more personalized experience and get the most out of your visit. If you’re unsure about which exhibits to check out, ask a museum staff member for recommendations.

Step 6: Bring a Camera

Lastly, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the incredible exhibits that are on offer. This way, you can relive your experience and share it with others. However, it’s important to note that some museums may have restrictions on photography, so ensure to check before taking any snaps.In conclusion, visiting free museums in Chicago doesn’t have to be a complicated process. With proper planning, research and following these easy steps, you can have an enjoyable experience exploring the city’s museums without spending a dime.