Got questions about your member ID, your access, or how many guests your membership allows? We have the answers.
Remember, members never need to reserve a ticket to visit the museum. Simply show your member card or digital member card at either museum entrance for access.
How do I find my member ID number?
If you have a member card, your member ID is located on the back directly under your name. It can also be found in the welcome email you received after becoming a member. You may also contact Member Engagement at membership@artic.edu for further assistance.
What level of membership am I?
If you have a physical member card, your member level can be found on the back of your card, where your name and member ID are listed. If you have a digital member card, access your member level by clicking on the “…” icon on the top right for iPhones or the “i” icon on the bottom right for Android phones. Click here to learn more about our member levels and benefits.
How do I access my member card(s)?
Three to four business days after a membership purchase, you will receive an email with a personalized link to access your digital member card, which can then be saved in your phone’s wallet app. You may also download the Art Institute of Chicago Official Mobile App to access a digital member card. (Instructions can be found below in the Mobile App section on this page.) Physical member cards may be requested on-site at the Michigan Avenue membership desk.
I just joined for the first time. How long will it be before I receive my member ID?
Membership purchases online and through the mail take 3–4 business days to process. Once processed, you will receive an email communication with your new member ID, expiration date, and instructions on how to access your digital member card. You can also contact Member Engagement at (312) 499-4111 or membership@artic.edu for assistance.
What is the benefit of adding a photo to my membership record?
Adding a photo allows you to enter the museum without showing a photo ID along with your member card. In an effort to preserve the value of membership’s exclusive access to the museum, we may request a photo ID upon museum entry to ensure memberships are being used by the cardholders. Please note membership cards cannot be loaned to guests to use without the accompaniment of the member, even if a photo has been added to your record.
To have your picture added to your record, please stop by a membership desk. It only takes a few seconds and will allow you to use your member card without an additional ID. For Luminary-level guest access and concierge service, please contact luminary@artic.edu or call (312) 443-3735.
How do I qualify for a student membership?
The student membership is reserved for full-time, degree-seeking students, who are 18 years or older. School enrollment must be verified when signing up either in person or over the phone and cannot be purchased online.
How do I add the Digital Member Card to my wallet app?
Members will be sent a personalized link and be prompted to access their card with an “Add to Wallet” or “Save” button, depending on the type of smartphone:
iPhones: After opening your personalized link and clicking “Add to Wallet,” the card will automatically display in the wallet app, where it can be accessed at any time.
Androids: Android phones may not automatically have a wallet app installed, so users may need to download Wallet Passes from Google Play. Once your phone has Wallet Passes installed, open the personalized link you were sent and click “Download.” The card will automatically display in the Wallet Passes app, where it can be accessed at any time.
How do I receive my personal URL with a link to my member card?
A link to your digital member card will arrive by email 3–4 business days after a membership purchase. If you’re having trouble locating your link, please reach out to Member Engagement at membership@artic.edu or (312) 499-4111.
How many users are allowed per digital member card?
The app allows the same number of users as you are issued when you join the Art Institute. Your membership is not transferable, and you may be asked to present a photo ID when visiting the museum.
In addition to admission to the museum, can I use my digital member card for admission to the Member Lounge and discounts at the museum’s shops and restaurants?
Absolutely! Your digital member card is accepted in the museum’s shops, restaurants, and for special exhibitions entry.
Can I use my digital member card to receive reciprocal privileges at other museums?
Yes. Ambassador–level members and above will be able to use the digital member card to gain free admission at our partner museums. Your eligibility is indicated by the “M” icon on the front of your digital card.
What if I have a joint membership?
Every cardholder will be provided with a personalized link to download and install a digital card. These links will arrive in your email 3–4 business days after a membership purchase.
What is the Art Institute of Chicago Mobile App?
Your personal, pocket-sized guide to the collection, the mobile app merges location-aware technology with audio storytelling, letting the art speak to you.
Enjoy access to exclusive audio tours, location-aware maps of the galleries, and your digital member card all in one place. Learn more about the mobile app.
How do I download the Official Art Institute App?
iPhones: Access your member card through the Art Institute of Chicago’s Official Mobile App, which is available through the iTunes App Store.
Android: The app is available through the Google Play Store.
How do I access my digital member card on the app?
After downloading the free Art Institute of Chicago’s Official Mobile App, tap “info” in the bottom right corner and then tap the “Access Member Card” and enter your member ID (also known as your member number). You can find your member ID in your welcome email. You will also be asked to enter your zip code, which should match the zip code on your membership.
Once you have entered in the information, your name and membership level will appear. When you visit the museum, simply tap the app to access your card and show it throughout the museum to access your benefits
How do I look up my member ID?
Your member ID is just another name for your member number. If you have a physical member card, it appears under your name on the back of your card. You may also contact Member Engagement at (312) 499-4111 or membership@artic.edu, or visit any member desk at either entrance, and a membership representative can assist you. It can also be found in the welcome email you received after becoming a member.
I’ve tried entering my member ID and zip code, but the app doesn’t recognize me. What do I do?
We may not have your most current contact information on file. Contact Member Engagement at (312) 499-4111 or membership@artic.edu, or visit any member desk at either entrance for assistance.
What are the technical requirements to access my digital member card?
The Art Institute of Chicago’s app works on the most current version of iOS for the iPhone and iPod touch. To learn more about which version you have, check the settings tile on your device. Visit Apple Support for more information about updating your device to the latest iOS. The app also works on most Android devices.
Will the app update when I renew my membership?
Yes, but not automatically. Once your renewal is processed, sign into the app and tap “Change Information” to enter your new member number.
What should I do if I change phones?
Reinstall the app on your new phone and enter your member information to activate. Your digital member card should only be used on one phone at a time.
Can I manage my membership on my phone?
To renew your membership or update contact information, please call Member Engagement at (312) 499-4111, visit our website, or stop by a member desk for assistance.
Do members need to wait in admission lines?
As a member, you receive expedited entrance into the museum—no need to wait in line. Just have your member card and photo ID ready. And if you need to renew your membership; just bring your member card and photo ID to the membership desk inside either entrance where a representative can help you renew.
Do members need tickets?
No, members never need to reserve tickets to visit the museum or special exhibitions. Simply show your member card or digital member card at either museum entrance when you arrive. Some exhibitions use virtual lines to manage capacity in the exhibition space and allow for a less crowded experience. You can join the line as soon as you arrive at the museum by scanning the QR code at signs at the entrances and throughout the building. Members enjoy expedited access in these virtual lines.
When is the museum open exclusively to members?
The first hour, 10–11 a.m., of every open day—Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—is reserved for member-only viewing. The entire museum is open during this time, including all special exhibitions.
Beginning March 5, 2025, the museum will also be open on Wednesdays. That day will also begin with the 10–11 a.m. member-only hour.
Do members need tickets to special exhibitions?
Members never need to reserve tickets to special exhibitions. Just show your member card or digital member card at the exhibition entrance. Some exhibitions use virtual lines to manage capacity in the exhibition space and allow for a less crowded experience. You can join the line as soon as you arrive at the museum by scanning the QR code at signs at the entrances and throughout the building. Members enjoy expedited access in these virtual lines.
Can members visit special exhibitions during member-only hours?
Yes, all of our exhibitions are open during museum hours, including our member-only viewing hour, 10–11 a.m.
Is my membership tax-deductible?
Yes. To the extent the law allows, E-member, Member, Plus, Ambassador, Patron, Roundtable, Circle, and Luminary are fully tax-deductible.
Do membership prices change regularly?
In order to offset the cost of providing high-quality benefits to members, along with the desire to increase and diversify member programming, periodic rate increases are required. In the event of a price increase, all then-current membership levels and expiration dates will be honored.
Can I receive a refund for my membership?
No. A membership with the Art Institute functions as a tax-deductible donation to the institution and is not eligible for a refund.
What are the rules governing memberships?
Please note that contributions are not refundable or transferable. All categories, benefits, and prices are subject to change. Membership benefits may not be refunded, resold, exchanged, or transferred. Membership benefits may not be used for group visits or for commercial purposes. Any unauthorized use may result in a membership being revoked. By visiting or communicating with the museum, you agree to comply with our visitor policies. Any person who does not adhere to these policies may be asked to leave the premises.
How many guests does my membership allow me to get into the museum?
The number of guests is unique to the member level. Every level includes at least one adult guest except E-Member, with higher levels allowing for as many as 8 guests.
How many guests can I bring with my digital member card?
Your digital member card provides all the benefits of your member level. For example, if you have a Member Plus membership, your digital member card will allow entry for up to four adults. As always, the member must be present for guests to receive admission.
Can I give my card to someone else so they can visit without me?
Members at the Luminary level may request guest passes for family and friends that can be used when the member is not present.
Children under 18 from the member’s household may use a parent’s member card with prior notification. To make this arrangement, please call Member Engagement at (312) 499-4111 with the child’s name and the date of their planned visit. The usual number of additional guests, as determined by membership level, applies.
All other guests must be accompanied by a named cardholder to take advantage of member benefits.
How do I renew my membership?
There are three ways you can renew your Art Institute membership. You may renew online, over the phone with a Member Engagement representative at (312) 499-4111, or by visiting one of the on-site Member Services desks located at both museum entrances.
Will I lose time on my membership if I renew early?
No, you will not lose any time on your membership by renewing early; your membership will be extended one or two years beyond your current expiration date. In fact, we encourage early renewal so your benefits do not lapse during your renewal cycle.
I renewed my membership; why am I still receiving notices?
Thank you for your renewal. Due to processing time, some materials may cross paths in the mail. This should subside once you receive your card(s). If it does not, please call Member Engagement at (312) 499-4111.
Members at the Member Ambassador level and above enjoy reciprocal privileges at the following museums:
Cincinnati Art Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Dallas Museum of Art
High Museum of Art (Atlanta)
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (Kansas City, Missouri)
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Saint Louis Art Museum
The Toledo Museum of Art
Vancouver Art Gallery
Walker Art Center (Minneapolis)
Whitney Museum of American Art
Member benefits vary between institutions. We recommend calling ahead to the museum you plan to visit in order to confirm available benefits.
Do member events ever sell out?
Seating and availability at member events and programs is limited to the capacity of the venue and may require reservations. Access is always provided on a first-come, first-served basis to things like Member Previews or member-only hours. Reservations for member programs can be made with a Member Engagement representative on-site at either entrance, by calling (312) 499-4111, or visiting the calendar. Reservations do not guarantee access to the event.
What if I need accommodations for a lecture?
Persons with disabilities who would like to request an accessibility accommodation for a Member Lecture are encouraged to send an email to access@artic.edu or call (312) 499-4111 as far in advance as possible.
Where is the member space located?
The new member-only space, the Member Bar at Terzo Piano, can be found on the third level of the Modern Wing, adjacent to the sculpture terrace. Here, members and their guests can take in outstanding views of the city, park, and lake while sipping complimentary coffee and tea. Wine, beer, and light snacks are also available for purchase in this light-filled space.
When is the Member Bar open?
The Member Bar is open Thursday–Monday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (and on Thursdays until 7:00 p.m.). Please note that at times the Member Bar may be closed for private events.
Can I bring guests to the Member Bar?
Yes, you can bring the same number of guests to the Member Bar as your membership level allows into the museum.
Do I still get a discount in the Member Bar?
Yes, as in the shops, the Café, and the Modern Bar, members receive a 10% discount on purchases at the Member Bar. Coffee and tea are complimentary.
How do I purchase a membership as a gift for a family member or friend?
You may purchase a gift membership online. Any level of membership can be purchased as a gift by clicking “GIFT NOW.” You will then be prompted to specify where you would like the membership materials emailed—to yourself or the gift recipient. Within 3 to 5 business days, expect to receive a follow-up email notifying you that the membership has finished processing. Enclosed will be a link to a membership gift letter you can customize and present to your recipient when the time is right. The letter will have the recipient’s membership details and instructions for accessing their digital member card in the Art Institute of Chicago Mobile App to gain entrance into the museum.
To purchase over the phone, please call our Member Engagement line at (312) 499-4111. For immediate fulfillment, stop by the museum and speak with an on-site membership representative at either entrance.
Can I purchase membership for my child?
We love to hear when children are enthusiastic about being a part of the museum. However, we cannot store information about minors, including name and contact information. For this reason, membership at the Member level and above allow household members under 18 years of age free access to the museum when accompanied by the cardholder.
How do I sign up for e-communications?
Sign up here and receive our e-newsletter, as well as other communications about upcoming member events and lectures.
How do I unsubscribe from e-communications?
We’re sorry to see you go, but if you no longer wish to receive e-communications, you may unsubscribe by clicking the “Unsubscribe” link at the bottom of our emails. Please note that this will unsubscribe you from all Art Institute communications, including programming announcements and membership renewals.
Is there a museum code of conduct?
All visitors, including members, must abide by our Visitor Policies.
If I live outside of the United States, will I receive mailings from the Art Institute?
You will receive e-communications on a regular basis promoting upcoming member events, exhibition openings, and special offers.
How many members does the museum have?
The total number fluctuates from year to year, but we are fortunate to have the support of around 100,000 members.
