Complimentary museum access in Chicago, featuring the Art Institute, Adler Planetarium, and Museum of Science and Industry.

Chicago Museums Offer Free Admission for Illinois Residents

Exploring the rich history, art, and science of Chicago just got more affordable for Illinois residents. Several museums in the city have announced free admission days for locals throughout the year.

Starting this September, the Chicago History Museum will open its doors to Illinois residents on the 1st, 10th, and 24th; October 8th, 13th, 25th; November 6th, 12th, and 19th, with no admission fee required.

The Adler Planetarium, known for its celestial exhibits, offers free admission for Illinois residents every Wednesday evening from 4 to 10 p.m. This includes access to the Adler's popular exhibitions like Universe: From the Big Bang to the Future.

The Field Museum, home to Sue the T. rex, will provide free basic admission every Wednesday through September 24, 2025. Visitors can explore exhibits such as Evolving Planet, The Ancient Americas, and Inside Ancient Egypt at no cost.

The Art Institute of Chicago offers free admission for Illinois residents on Thursday evenings from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. through Sept. 25, 2025, but reservations are required. The museum houses an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, as well as American art.

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum provides free admission for Illinois residents every Thursday, offering a chance to engage with nature and learn about local wildlife.

The Museum of Contemporary Art offers free admission every Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m., showcasing modern and contemporary art.

The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry provides free admission on several specific dates in September and October. Check their website for the exact dates.

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center offers free admission for all visitors every Wednesday. The museum tells the story of African American history and culture in Chicago and the United States.

Admission is always free for Chicago teens under the age of 18, all children under age 14, Link and WIC cardholders, active-duty military, and Illinois educators at the Adler Planetarium, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Science and Industry.

For those planning a visit, it's worth checking the individual museum's websites for any updates or changes to their free admission policies. The Lincoln Park Zoo, for example, provides free entry every day, while other museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago also have regularly scheduled free or discount days for Illinois residents.

Complimentary museum access in Chicago, featuring the Art Institute, Adler Planetarium, and Museum of Science and Industry.