Steps Through the Abstract – Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago – Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to The Art Institute of Chicago

Planning your visit in advance can help you make the most of your time at one of the world’s most renowned art museums.

The Art Institute of Chicago – Ticket Information

Purchase Options: Tickets for The Art Institute of Chicago can be purchased online on this website ahead of your visit, which is recommended to guarantee entry and simplify your arrival. Tickets are also available at the museum entrance, though availability may be limited, especially for special exhibitions.

Types of Tickets: The museum offers fast general admission tickets that provide access to the permanent collection and most exhibitions. Tickets to guided tours and combo passes that offer access to multiple iconic Chicago venues are also available. Members receive benefits including early access and complimentary entry to many special exhibitions. We offer the following tickets on this website:

The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass
The Art Institute of Chicago: Skip-The-Line & Semi-Private Tour
The Art Institute of Chicago: Skip The Line Ticket + Exclusive Guided Tour
Chicago C3 CityPASS
Chicago CityPASS

Pricing: Admission fees vary depending on whether you purchase general admission, guided tours tickets or combo passes.

The Art Institute of Chicago – Location & Hours

The museum has two primary entrances.

Michigan Avenue Entrance: 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603

Modern Wing Entrance: 159 East Monroe Street, Chicago, IL 60603

The museum is open 6 days a week during the following hours:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 11 AM - 5 PM

Thursday: 11 AM - 8 PM

Tuesday: Closed

Accessibility Facilities at The Art Institute of Chicago

Entrances and Ramps: Both the Michigan Avenue and Modern Wing entrances are wheelchair accessible. The Modern Wing entrance on East Monroe Street has a dedicated drop-off lane.

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices: The museum is fully accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout the building. Manually operated wheelchairs are available for free at both coat checks on a first-come, first-served basis. Personal manual and electric wheelchairs, single-seat scooters, and walkers are also permitted in all areas of the museum.

Elevators and Seating: Elevators provide access to all public levels of the museum. Designated wheelchair seating areas are available in all auditoriums.

Tactile Experiences: The museum offers a Multisensory Gallery where visitors can explore objects through touch, sound, and other senses. "TacTiles" kits, which are tactile reproductions of select artworks, are available for loan.

Audio Resources: The official Art Institute of Chicago mobile app offers verbal description tours for visitors with low vision or blindness. Braille is also available on some artwork labels.

Assistive Listening Devices: All auditoriums are equipped with an assistive listening system with t-coil compatibility. Devices are available free of charge.

Captioning and ASL: Most public lectures and films have open or closed captioning. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation for public programs can be requested with at least two weeks' notice. The museum also offers interactive ASL tours of the collection.

Service Animals: Service animals are welcome in all public areas of the museum.

The Art Institute of Chicago - Museum Shops

The Art Institute has two distinct museum shops for visitors to browse.

The main Museum Shop, located in the Michigan Avenue lobby, features a wide array of art books, exhibition catalogs, and unique reproductions of classic artworks. You can also find art-inspired jewelry, apparel, and gifts here.

The second shop, situated in the Modern Wing, specializes in contemporary art and design-related merchandise. Both shops offer a way for visitors to take a piece of their experience home and support the museum's collections and programs.

The Art Institute of Chicago - Dining

The museum offers several on-site dining options to suit different tastes and schedules.

The Café serves a variety of fresh sandwiches, salads, and hot entrees for a quick and convenient meal.

The Modern Bar provides a more relaxed atmosphere for light fare and beverages.

During the warmer months, the outdoor Garden Bar is open, offering a picturesque setting to enjoy a drink and a light bite.

Please note that outside food and drink are not permitted in the museum's galleries.

The Art Institute of Chicago - Rules & Regulations

To protect the artworks and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, all visitors are asked to adhere to a few simple rules. Please do not touch any works of art, as the oils and dirt from hands can cause irreversible damage. Food and drinks are strictly prohibited in all gallery spaces. Non-flash photography is allowed for personal use in most areas, but it is important to look for signs indicating restrictions in certain galleries or special exhibitions. Sketching is permitted with a pencil in a notebook no larger than 13" x 17".

The Art Institute of Chicago - Nearby Attractions

The Art Institute of Chicago is situated in a prime location in the heart of downtown, placing it within walking distance of many of the city's most famous landmarks.

Immediately across the street is Millennium Park, home to iconic features such as the Cloud Gate sculpture (commonly known as "The Bean") and the Crown Fountain.

Grant Park and the beautiful Chicago Riverwalk are also just a short stroll away.

Other major cultural institutions like the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium are a short distance away on the Museum Campus.

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The Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass

Highlights

Experience convenient entry by bypassing general admission queues.

Marvel at masterpieces from celebrated artists worldwide.

Gain entry to all galleries and non-ticketed exhibits.

Join complimentary daily tours offered in English and Spanish.

Access a free audio guide app with insightful background stories.

The Art Institute of Chicago: Skip-The-Line & Semi-Private Tour

Highlights

Avoid the main queues with priority access.

Experience a semi-private tour lasting about two to two and a half hours.

Benefit from insights provided by a professional, licensed guide.

Discover masterpieces from notable artists across many eras.

Explore the museum’s unique American perspective compared to European galleries.

Chicago CityPASS

Highlights

Enjoy discounted admission for five major Chicago sights.

Access iconic locations such as the Shedd Aquarium and Skydeck Chicago with priority entry.

Select three attractions from a diverse list including museums, observation decks, and river tours.

Use your pass within nine days starting the day you visit the first attraction.

Manage your visit details and reservations easily through the My CityPASS® App.

Chicago C3 CityPASS

Highlights

Choose any three popular Chicago attractions for entry.

Enjoy reduced prices compared to purchasing tickets individually.

The pass is valid for nine consecutive days from first use.

Includes a variety of iconic landmarks and experiences.

Convenient digital ticketing with smartphone entry.

FAQs about Visiting The Art Institute of Chicago

Does my ticket include access to special exhibitions?

General admission tickets include access to the permanent collection and most special exhibitions unless they are specifically ticketed.

Are there different types of tickets available?

Yes, in addition to general admission, you can purchase tickets for guided tours or combo passes that include entry to multiple Chicago attractions.

What is the museum's bag policy?

Small purses and bags are allowed, but backpacks and bags larger than 13" x 17" x 4" must be checked at the coat check.

Are outside food and drinks allowed inside the museum?

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted within the galleries, but you can dine at the museum's on-site cafés.

Can I take photos inside the museum?

Non-flash photography is generally allowed for personal use in most areas of the museum.

Are there any rules I need to be aware of?

Visitors are asked not to touch the artwork, and food, drinks, and flash photography are prohibited in the galleries.

What are the best times to visit the museum?

For a quieter experience with fewer crowds, the best times to visit are weekday mornings or late afternoons.

Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the museum is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and wheelchairs available for visitors.

Are there places to eat at the museum?

Yes, the museum offers several on-site dining options, including The Café, The Modern Bar, and the seasonal Garden Bar.

Does the Art Institute have a museum shop?

Yes, there are two museum shops offering a wide variety of books, prints, and unique souvenirs.

Are service animals allowed in the museum?

Yes, service animals are welcome in all public areas of the museum.