Chicago is known as a world-class city. The city is rich with culture exhibited through its food, art and architecture. One of the great things about it for locals and visitors is that you don’t have to go broke to experience it. Many of Chicago’s top museums are free on specific days or times throughout the year. Check out this guide to the best free museum days in the Windy City.
DuSable Museum of African American History
Free Days: First Tuesday of the month: From 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Details: Celebrate African American culture and history through a series of impactful exhibits and educational programs. Located on the South Side of Chicago.
Field Museum
Free Days: First Saturday of the month: From 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Details: Become an explorer, witness the grandeur of prehistoric creatures and gain a deeper understanding of ancient civilizations.
Museum of Science and Industry
Free Days: Wednesday afternoons: Every first Wednesday of the month from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Details: Free admission is available to Illinois residents. Experience America’s first diesel-electric streamlined passenger train, the Pioneer Zephyr, or soak in the transformative art of the Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibit.
Chicago History Museum
Free Days: Second Sunday of the month: From 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Details: Learn more about the Windy City’s rich, sometimes complicated and engaging history.
Free Days: Thursday evenings: Every Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Details: This day and time are free to Illinois residents. It’s a great opportunity to experience everything from Van Gogh to rich African art.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)
Free Days: Friday evenings: Every Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Details: Come out and tap into a contemporary and modern look at the world of art. It’s a great place for a first date and a good way to start your weekend.
Adler Planetarium
Free Days: Second Thursday of the month: From 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Details: Free admission is available to Illinois residents. Experience the stars and travel through space.
National Museum of Mexican Art
Free Days: Friday evenings: Every Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Details: Located in the vibrant Pilsen community of Chicago, experience vibrant Mexican art and culture.
Chicago Cultural Center
Free Days: Daily: Always free
Details: The Chicago Cultural Center is a space to immerse yourself in the city’s architecture and enjoy free performances.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Free Days: Second Saturday of the month: From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Details: Explore nature in Chicago in an environment filled with butterflies, beautiful gardens and knowledge.
Plan Your Visits
Chicago museums provide a wealth of knowledge, inspiration and beauty. Make the most of your museum visits:
- Check the official websites of each museum. Times and dates may change periodically.
- Always arrive early. Free days can usually draw large crowds.
- Bring your ID. Some museums require you to be an Illinois resident for free admission.
The cultural landscape of Chicago provides an opportunity for all to experience the city in a way that enriches everyone. Every day is a day to experience something new and exciting.
