No budget? No fear. Free museum days are here. Mark these days on your calendar for your chance to enjoy Chicago's museums and galleries care and cost-free.
Explore the cosmos at The Adler Planetarium! Check out the observatory's brand-new telescope and experience a trip out of this world.
Illinois residents can enjoy free admission (with proof of residency) every Wednesday from 4 to 10 p.m.
Make sure to book online and in advance. Admission is always free for Illinois teachers, so bring your Miss Frizzle friend!
A museum that holds countless pieces of history all in one place. Take the whole family - if you're under 18 the museum is free!
This summer, the Art Institute of Chicago is providing Free Thursday Evenings for Illinois residents, June 5th–September 25th between 5:00–8:00 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the Chicago Botanic Garden, a verdant oasis just outside the bustling city. With their vibrant community, beautiful gardens, engaging classes, and captivating events, all while enjoying an incredible perk of free entrance fees.
Parking and entry are free every day for active duty military, U.S. military reservists and former pows, link, and WIC holders, IL educators, and kids' museum passports. The garden is also part of Museums for All.
Visitors can preregister up to two months in advance for free admission days.
Veterans will receive one (1) free admission daily with military ID, while active-duty military will receive up to four (4) free admissions for themselves and three guests each day with valid military identification. They are also a part of the Museums for All program.
Explore the city with their expert guides, delve into their exhibitions through thematic programs, or discover Chicago history through family-friendly activities.
Free admission is always available to all active-duty military and all veterans; active-duty Chicago Police Department members; active-duty Chicago Fire Department members; City Colleges of Chicago students, faculty, and staff; and Illinois teachers.
Dive into the vibrant artistic odyssey where innovation meets diversity and education through art. Connect with global perspectives, explore Chicago's artistic landscape, and join DPAM in opening minds and building curiosity for lifelong learning.
Uncover the vibrant history at The DuSable Black History Museum. Check out their captivating exhibits and educational programs, where every visit is an invitation to connect with the rich culture of Africans and African Americans. Discover and be inspired.
For free admission, check out their admission policy. Children 6 and under, military, and first responders always get in free.
Wednesdays are always free.
Discover the wonders of the natural world and the human story. Dive into history with free admission for Illinois residents every Wednesday from 9am-5pm—show proof of residency for an enriching experience that spans over a century.
All free general admission exhibitions include Evolving Planet, The Ancient Americas, and Inside Ancient Egypt.
For Illinois residents, there is free admission on Wednesdays!
To plan your visit, find out more information here.
Photo Via Facebook/ Forest Preserve District of Cook County
Various Locations in and around Chicago
Museums aren't all in big buildings downtown! The Forest Preserves of Cook County cover almost 70,000 acres of forest, with rare habitats and a vibrant plant and animal diversity, and contain six museums and nature centers that are all free! Check out their website to see locations and exhibit details.
Photo Provided by Heritage Museum of Asian Art
3500 S. Morgan St. (3rd Floor) - Bridgeport
Showcasing a variety of artistic forms, spanning many cultures and periods in Asia, the museum links to the past and present arts of Asia for Chicagoans and visitors from around the world.
Free admission is available for active military and children under 7!
Admission is free on August 15 from 5pm-8pm!
1524 N. Lake Shore Dr. - Lincoln Park
Uncover the captivating history of surgery in an enchanting Gold Coast mansion. Explore preserved elegance and global medical contributions.
They offer free admission forn ASTC members and children three and under!
They are also a member of the Museums for All program!
Photo via Facebook / Illinois Holocaust Museum
9603 Woods Dr. - Skokie, IL
Visitors who present their Link or EBT card with a matching photo ID receive free admission for up to 3 guests!
Become a museum member and gain access to unlimited free admission!
6418 N. Greenview Ave. - Rogers Park
Dive into the rich world of leather, kink, BDSM, and fetish at the Leather Archives & Museum. Founded in 1991, it's your gateway to a fascinating history. Discover, explore, and make it a must-visit destination. Plan your journey now!
Admission is free every Thursday for those who are 18+, and check out their calendar for more free admission events.
Photo via Facebook/Lincoln Park Zoo
2001 N. Clark St. - Lincoln Park
Your next adventure awaits: embark on a wild adventure at Lincoln Park Zoo, where nature meets excitement! Discover fascinating wildlife, make unforgettable memories, and embrace the thrill of the wild.
The zoo offers free admission 365 days a year.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / LOYOLA UNIVESITY MUSEUM OF ART
820 Michigan Ave. - Streeterville
Uncover a blend of art, history, and spirituality in a historic Gothic Revival building on the Magnificent Mile. Explore captivating galleries and unique spaces that promise an enriching adventure. Plan your visit for an experience that transcends cultures and ignites curiosity.
This museum is currently appointment-only to see the collection.
photo via Mindworks
224 S Michigan Ave. - The Loop
Visit the world’s first discovery center & lab dedicated to behavioral science! Explore 8 interactive exhibits on topics like goal-setting, regrets, biases, and first impressions and earn prizes by participating in fascinating studies that help expand the science of decision-making.
Mindworks is always free to visit, Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm.
Photo via Facebook/Museum Of Contemporary Art
220 E. Chicago Ave. - Streeterville
Discover the essence of contemporary art, where it's been a canvas for new ideas and experimental works. Immerse yourself in the living stories of artists, explore the cultural context of art, and be part of a vibrant community of creativity. Your invitation to the future of art awaits!
Illinois residents can skip the admission fees every Tuesday from 5:00 to 9:00 PM, year-round. The museum is also free for anyone 18 and under on any day of the week.
600 S. Michigan Ave. - Loop
Explore the power of photography at a premier art hub. Dive into thought-provoking exhibitions and dialogue, showcasing over 17,000 captivating works by 1,800 artists. Join MoCP in uncovering the artistic, cultural, and political impact of photography on our world today.
Plan your visit, as MoCP is closed on all major holidays. Admission is free daily but is closed when Columbia College is closed.
Photo VIA Flickr.com/ericv
5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. - Hyde Park
Unlock the wonders of science at a historic and future-focused museum. As the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, they extend the thrill beyond walls, bringing science to life for children and adults. Explore, learn, and be part of the science adventure.
Visit MSI for an educational journey. On select dates throughout the year, MSI offers Illinois residents free museum entry with valid proof of residency. Pricing is applied at checkout.
Illinois residents receive free Museum Entry on these upcoming dates:
August 18, 19, 25, 26
Find out more FREE ticketing days and schedule details.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MEXICAN ART
1852 W. 19th St. - Pilsen
Journey into the heart of Mexican art and culture at a beacon of accessibility and education. Established in 1982, the National Museum of Mexican Art invites you to explore a rich collection, vibrant arts programs, and a commitment to social justice. Step into a world where inclusivity thrives, fostering a deeper connection to the beauty and diversity of Mexican heritage. Visit and be part of a cultural odyssey that transcends borders and celebrates the unique voices of the Mexican community.
Admission is always free.
Photo Via Instagram/ Mitchellmuseum
3001 Central Street - Evanston
Dedicated to the promoting a greater understanding of Indigenous peoples and serving as a space to celebrate their diverse cultures, the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is a powerful collection that everyone should visit.
Tribal Members (with ID) get in free, as well as members of the museum.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / NATIONAL VETERANS ART MUSEUM
4041 N. Milwaukee Ave. - Portage Park
A powerful tribute to courage and creativity. Since its beginnings in 1981, this unique space in Chicago's Six Corners neighborhood has showcased over 2,000 works by artists who served in wars across the globe. Explore the impact of war through art, literature, and interactive exhibits. A must-visit for those seeking a profound journey through history and artistic expression.
Admission is free to all.
PHOTO VIA ISAC.UCHICAGO.EDU
1155 E. 58th St. - Hyde Park
Former Oriental Institute Museum.
Embark on a journey through time and uncover the mysteries of early human civilizations in West Asia and North Africa. The museum, which was founded in 1919, invites you to explore groundbreaking discoveries and rigorous scholarship. Celebrate the rich tapestry of ancient history at the world-leading center. Visit to witness the legacy of human progress.
Admission is free but there is a suggested donation of $10 for adults and $5 for children.
Photo Via Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
2430 N. Cannon Dr. - Lincoln Park
Explore captivating exhibits, engage in educational programs, and step into a butterfly haven. A must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and families seeking to connect with the diverse ecology of Chicago and beyond.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum offers free days with suggested donations of $10. Every Thursday is free for Illinois residents.
Photo VIA Flickr.com/m-i-k-e
1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. - South Loop/Museum Campus
Connect with marine life through beluga encounters, virtual dives, and hands-on beach clean-ups. A visit to Shedd is not just a journey into aquatic wonders but a chance to foster love, understanding, and protection for our precious underwater world.
Plan your visit now! Illinois residents, enjoy free admission to Shedd Aquarium on select days; reserve your tickets online for a captivating underwater experience!
COST
Free (A $5-per-order convenience fee applies to online Illinois Free Day ticket reservations.)
Find out more about free days and admission here.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / SWEDISH AMERICAN MUSEUM
5211 N. Clark St. - Andersonville
Step into the heart of Andersonville's Swedish charm at the Swedish American Museum. Immerse yourself in over 40 years of cultural history, explore captivating exhibits, and celebrate traditional Swedish festivities, where every visit is a journey through the rich tapestry of Swedish heritage in Chicago!
Members and children under the age of one are always free. Admission is free for all on the second Tuesday of the month.
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / NMPRAC
3015 W. Division St. - Humboldt Park
Discover the soulful rhythms and vibrant hues of Puerto Rican arts and culture, and immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of exhibitions, workshops, and festivals celebrating the island's identity and heritage. Step into history, explore artistry, and be part of a cultural journey that transcends borders—an experience that awaits you in the heart of Humboldt Park!
Admission and parking are open to all community residents and visitors. Donations are always welcome.
Photo via Facebook/Chicago Cultural Center
78 E. Washington St. - Loop
Timeless and elegant. Where history meets artistry. Marvel at the breathtaking Tiffany domes, witness stunning architecture and immerse yourself in a cultural haven that hosts free events, exhibitions, and performances. Join the ranks of hundreds of thousands who explore this landmark each year, and let the Chicago Cultural Center captivate your senses and ignite your passion for the arts!
Admission is always free here. Plus, you can enjoy free building tours!
Photo via Facebook/American Toby Jug Museum
910 Chicago Ave. - Evanston
Discover the world's largest and most fascinating collection of Toby and character jugs at the American Toby Jug Museum. Immerse yourself in the rich history of these unique artifacts, ranging from antique treasures to contemporary masterpieces. Whether you're a collector or just curious, our museum welcomes all ages to explore the diverse and captivating world of Toby and Character jugs.
Admission is free at this quirky museum! Free lectures from museum founder Steve Mullins and other experts are also offered. Call for more information.
1827 S. Indiana Ave. - South Loop
Experience the city's formative years before the Civil War and take in the rich history that the Clarke family shaped. Bishop Louis Henry and Margaret Ford meticulously preserved this house, which has become a symbol of Chicago's enduring legacy. It is well-known as a local landmark. This is a historic home—a must-visit destination to cherish our city's early roots.
Admission is always free. Clarke-Ford House tours are temporarily paused due to a reimagining of our public programming. We look forward to exciting times ahead!
PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK / THE BLOCK MUSEUM
40 Arts Circle Dr. - Evanston
Explore diverse art and ideas at a dynamic Northwestern hub. From thought-provoking exhibits to vibrant discussions, our space is a bridge between campus and community. Plan your visit and have an inspiring journey where everyone is welcome to experience the power of art.
Northwestern University's art museum offers free admission and parking daily.
Photo via Facebook/Design Museum of Chicago
108 N. State St. - The Loop
Unlock the power of design with ever-changing exhibitions and vibrant programs; they redefine the boundaries of creativity. Witness the transformation of their gallery space into immersive showcases that elevate humble materials, sparking inspiration and connection. From architecture to street art, design surrounds museums, impacting lives profoundly. Experience the dynamic influence of design in everyday life and learn how it shapes our world. Don't miss the chance to engage with the extraordinary and discover the human side of design!
This museum and gallery inside the City of Chicago’s Expo 72 Building is always free and open to the public, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
104 S. Michigan Ave. - The Loop
Embark on a journey through military history and discover the powerful stories, sacrifices, and values of citizen-soldiers that shaped our past, present, and future. As a non-governmental, non-partisan organization, they offer a unique experience with diverse collections, scholarly initiatives, and public programs. From a flagship center in downtown Chicago to their upcoming world-class research center, explore the profound connections between the armed forces and the freedoms they protect. Visit to honor, educate yourself on, and find inspiration in the enduring legacy of the military and the rich tapestry of human history.
Museum admission is always free for anyone with an active military ID, the Chicago police and fire departments, and children under 18.
Additionally, the museum and library are free:
Veterans Day: Friday, November 10
Photo via Facebook/Busy Beaver Button Co.
3407 W. Armitage Ave. - Logan Square
Step into the past through wearable stories at the button museum. Explore the art, words, and colors that have captured life's moments since 1896. Dive into a unique journey through history and discover how people expressed themselves through these timeless artifacts. Visit to experience the rich tapestry of human stories told through every button.
Busy Beaver Button Company's adjacent museum is free and open to the public. They also accept button donations!
PHOTO VIA AMERICANWRITERMUSEUM.ORG
180 N. Michigan Avenue, 2nd Floor - The Loop
Embark on a literary journey where the richness of American literature comes alive. Celebrate the profound influence of American writers, spanning over five centuries and encompassing diverse forms of expression, from poetry to journalism. With a dynamic continuum that evolves over time, the museum invites you to explore the works of both revered and emerging authors.
The museum offers free admission the third Sunday of every month.
Photo Via Facebook/The Renaissance Society
6811 S. Ellis Avenue, Cobb Hall, 4th Floor - University of Chicago
This contemporary museum is nestled within the University of Chicago and offers artists the chance to display works of bold experimentation and expression. Founded by the University's faculty, this museum provides an aggressively intimate connection to its artwork that you won't find elsewhere. Always free to attend.
Photo Via Facebook/ The Driehaus Museum
50 E Erie - Magnificent Mile
An easy stop to make if you're exploring downtown Chicago - The Driehaus Museum is right off of the Magnificent Mile. Located in a gorgeous restored building, this museum is about highlighting the global community and showcasing art, architecture, and design of the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
Wednesdays from 4pm - 7pm are always free.
230 S LaSalle St. - Loop
The Fed Money Museum is always free in Chicago! The Loop gem showcases a variety of money-minded exhibits and even features a whopping one million dollar suitcase that you can see!
Did we miss a spot? Let us know at [email protected]!
