Tips for Visiting Willem de Kooning Drawing

I’m visiting for the first time. How should I plan?
First-time visitors should plan to purchase a Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket in advance, in addition to general admission. Entry is managed through a virtual line rather than timed tickets or reservations.

Learn more at Tickets & Admission and Arrival & Virtual Line.

I’m a member. What do I need to know?
Members and their included guests do not need to purchase tickets or make reservations. Members receive expedited access after joining the virtual line and enjoy Member Previews, June 11–13, and member-only hours, 10:00–11:00 a.m., every day the museum is open.

Learn more at Members and Arrival & Virtual Line.

I’m visiting with children or teens. Do they need tickets?
All children ages 14 and under and Chicago teens under 18 receive complimentary general admission and ticketed exhibition access. All visitors—including members—must still join the virtual line to enter.

Learn more at Tickets & Admission and Arrival & Virtual Line.

I’m an educator planning a visit. How does access for educators work?
Pre-K–12 teachers, teaching artists working in schools, and caregivers who are homeschooling are welcome to visit the museum independently to prepare for lessons or plan student visits. 

Eligible educators may request an Illinois educator voucher for free general admission, but need a $7 exhibition ticket. When you present your voucher at one of the museum’s admission counters, please ask about ticket availability for Willem de Kooning Drawing. 

Learn more at K–12 Educator & Student Visits.

I’m a student at a University Partner institution. How do I see Willem de Kooning Drawing?
Individual students at University Partner institutions receive free general admission and ticketed exhibition access, including to Willem de Kooning Drawing, by presenting a valid university ID at one of the museum’s admissions counters.

Because tickets are limited, University Partner students should check ticket availability when you arrive.

Find more information about the University Partner Program on our website, or contact [email protected].

I’m an employee visiting through the Corporate Partner program. What should I expect when I arrive?
Employees of participating Corporate Partner companies receive free general admission and may receive free entry to ticketed exhibitions when using their company’s benefits. 

Benefits—including access to ticketed exhibitions—vary by your company’s participation level. We recommend confirming details, such as exhibition access and eligible guests with your company ahead of your visit.

Because tickets are limited, visitors using their Corporate Partner benefits should check ticket availability when you arrive.

Learn more at Tickets & Admission and Arrival & Virtual Line.

I plan to purchase general admission tickets to visit. Do I need a separate ticket to see Willem de Kooning Drawing?
Yes. Willem de Kooning Drawing requires a $7 exhibition ticket in addition to general admission for most visitors.

This includes visitors with:

• Adult, Senior, Student, or Teen general admission
  Willem de Kooning Drawing tickets can be purchased online when buying general admission or on-site while supplies last.
• Fast Pass admission tickets
  Fast Pass admission ticket holders are required to purchase a $5 exhibition ticket for Willem de Kooning Drawing but receive expedited entry to see the exhibition after joining the virtual line.
• CityPASS tickets
  CityPASS holders may email [email protected] in advance to purchase an exhibition ticket or inquire at the admissions desk on the day of their visit.
• Reciprocal museum membership
  Reciprocal members receive free general admission at the Art Institute of Chicago but will need to purchase the $7 Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket. Reciprocal members may enter during public hours, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Who does NOT need to purchase a separate ticket for Willem de Kooning Drawing?
Art Institute of Chicago members and their included guests do not need a ticket. They can simply join the virtual line when they arrive and show their member card at the exhibition entrance.

The following visitors receive free tickets which can be reserved online or picked up on-site, while supplies last.

• All children ages 14 and under
• Chicago teens under the age of 18
• Visitors whose admission program or partnership includes ticketed exhibitions—see next question for details. 

Please note ticket availability is limited and may sell out, especially on weekends and holidays.

I receive free general admission. Do I still need a ticket for Willem de Kooning Drawing?
Yes, but access to free tickets to Willem de Kooning Drawing varies by free admission program. 

The following free admission programs include entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing during public hours:

• Children under 14
  We recommend reserving online in advance with general admission, but tickets can be picked up on-site while supplies last.
• Chicago teens under 18
  We recommend reserving online in advance with general admission, but tickets can be picked up on-site while supplies last.
• Museums for All 
  Visit an admissions desk on the day of your visit with your EBT, LINK, or WIC card along with a valid photo ID to receive free general admission and entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing.
• Learning & Public Engagement Family Pass
  Visit an admissions desk on the day of your visit with your issued Family Pass and a child or teen under 18 to receive free general admission and entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing.
• Students of University Partner institutions
  Visit an admissions desk on the day of your visit with a valid student ID to receive free general admission and entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing.
• Employees at Corporate Partner companies*
  Visit an admissions desk on the day of your visit with proof of employment to receive free general admission and entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing.
  *Benefits vary by the company’s participation level. We recommend confirming details, such as ticketed exhibition access and any eligible guests with your company ahead of your visit.
• ICOM (International Council of Museums) and AAM (American Alliance of Museums) cardholders
  Visit an admissions desk on the day of your visit with a valid membership card and photo ID to receive free general admission and entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing. Entry does not include member hours or other member benefits and cannot be reserved in advance.
• Cultivist members
  Visit an admissions desk on the day of your visit with a valid membership card and photo ID to receive free general admission and entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing for the Cultivist member and one guest. Entry does not include member hours or other member benefits and cannot be reserved in advance.
• Museum Work for Chicago Constituent Education Resource cardholder
  Proceed directly to the gallery entrance where tickets are scanned and present your valid card along with a signed letter authorizing its use.
• Accredited members of the press
  Members of the press are welcome to request museum admission and ticketed exhibition access in advance by emailing [email protected] with 1.) Your name and title or media outlet, 2.) the date you plan to visit, 3.) a brief description of your visit plans.

The following free admission programs DO NOT include ticketed exhibitions and require the purchase of a $5 Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket on the day of their visit.

• Active-duty military
  Visit an admissions desk with your active-duty military ID to receive free general admission and to purchase a $7 Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket.
• Illinois educators
  Visit an admissions desk with your educator voucher to receive general admission and to purchase a $5 Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket.
  *Tip: If you’re an educator visiting with a guest, we recommend that your guest purchase general admission and exhibition tickets ahead of your visit.
• Chicago Public Library—Explore More Illinois Digital Pass
  Chicago Public Library cardholders age 18 and older should visit an admission desk with their reserved digital pass to receive free general admission and to purchase a $7 Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket.
• Bank of America and Museums on Us
  On the first full weekend of every month, Bank of America or Merrill Lynch credit or debit cardholders can visit the admissions desk with their credit/debit card and a valid photo ID with matching name for free admission and .to purchase a $7 Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket.

What if Willem de Kooning Drawing tickets are sold out?
If exhibition tickets are sold out on the day of your visit, consider joining as a member.

Art Institute members and their included guests enjoy access to all ticketed exhibitions without needing additional tickets or making reservations. Additional perks include expedited entry, special viewing hours, exclusive programs, and discounts throughout the museum.

Tip: If you’re visiting with general admission and are initially unable to get a Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket that day, we suggest checking in later in the day with a staff member, as Willem de Kooning Drawing tickets may become available throughout the day.

Do members and their included guests need tickets to see Willem de Kooning Drawing? 
No, Art Institute of Chicago members and their included guests do not need to purchase tickets or make reservations to see ticketed exhibitions, including Willem de Kooning Drawing. 

When you arrive, please have your member card ready to enter the museum and again at the exhibition entrance. During member-only hours, 10:00–11:00 a.m., you may be asked to show your membership card to our security team as part of our entry process. 

The museum opens to the public at 11:00 a.m., and there may be general admission lines. As a member, there is no need to wait. When you arrive, have your member card ready for entry and use the dedicated member entrance. Staff will be happy to assist in directing you to the exhibition galleries.

If you have any questions about your visit, stop by the membership desk—we’re always happy to help prepare you for a great one.

I just joined as a member. What should I do to see the exhibition?
Welcome! We’re so glad you’ve joined us. 

Your membership benefits begin right away. Be sure to check your email for your membership confirmation, which includes a link to download your digital member card. 

If you haven’t received your confirmation before your visit—processing times may vary—stop by the membership desk and we’ll have a pass ready for you. 

Can members reserve Willem de Kooning Drawing access in advance?
Members do not need to purchase tickets or make reservations to see Willem de Kooning Drawing. Expedited access is included as part of your membership benefits, but there is no way to reserve access.

Because this exhibition is expected to bring much excitement, entry is managed through a virtual line. Stop by the membership desk when you arrive, and our staff will guide you through on how to join the virtual line and what to do while you wait.

How many guests are included with my membership?
Included guests vary by membership level. Most levels include at least one adult guest, with higher levels allowing additional guests. Check the number of guests your membership includes by membership level. 

If you’re unsure about your benefits, our team can help clarify before your visit—just email [email protected] or give us a call (312) 499-4111.

What if I’m visiting with more guests than my membership includes?
Guests beyond those included in your current membership level are welcome to join you—including during Member Previews and member-only hours—but will need both a general admission ticket and a Willem de Kooning Drawing exhibition ticket.

If you plan to visit with additional guests, we recommend upgrading your membership ahead of time. Membership staff can assist with upgrades by calling (312) 499-4111 or sending us an email at [email protected]. Membership staff is always available on-site too—just stop by one of our membership desks, located at both entrances.

Can my guests visit without me?
Members must accompany their guests to share their membership benefits, including free admission, entry during member-only hours, expedited access, and all additional benefits.

Anyone visiting independently of a member will need to purchase general admission and a Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket if they would like to see the exhibition.

Do members have special viewing hours? Can my guests join me?
Yes, members enjoy three days of Member Previews, June 11–13, before the exhibition opens to the public, as well as daily member-only hours every day the museum is open, 10:00–11:00 a.m.

Included guests are welcome to attend during member-only hours when accompanied by the member.

Do members need to join the virtual line for Willem de Kooning Drawing?
Yes, members receive expedited access to the exhibition once they join the virtual line.

Learn more at Arrival & Virtual Line.

How do I register for Willem de Kooning Drawing member programs, and who can I contact if I need assistance?
Members can register for programs online by using their Member ID and zip code (if you created a member account). You do not need an account to register—simply enter your contact information and proceed to checkout.

Program details and registration links are available on each event page. We recommend registering early, as space may be limited.

Questions about registering for a program? Call (312) 499-4111 or send us an email at [email protected]. We’re here to help. 

I’m a reciprocal member at another museum. How do I visit?
Reciprocal members receive free general admission at the Art Institute of Chicago but will need to purchase the $7 Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket. 

Reciprocal members may enter during public hours, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Is there timed entry, or is a reservation required?
No. Entry to Willem de Kooning Drawing is managed through a virtual line rather than timed tickets or reservations.

Do all visitors need to join the virtual line?
Yes. All visitors—including members—must join the virtual line to enter the exhibition.

When should I join the virtual line?
We recommend joining the virtual line as soon as you arrive. To allow time to fully experience the exhibition, all visitors must join the virtual line at least one hour before the museum closes.

How does the virtual line work?
For step-by-step instructions, accessibility support, and additional details, see our Virtual Lines FAQs.

What can I do while I wait?
Once you’ve joined the virtual line, you’re free to explore the museum while you wait. Many visitors choose to explore other galleries and exhibitions, revisit favorite works, or enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat in one of the museum’s dining spaces. Seating is available throughout the museum, and staff can help direct visitors to quieter spaces if needed. You can also download the Art Institute’s free app to enjoy a self-guided tour or get a headstart on the exhibition audio tour for Willem de Kooning Drawing.

Members enjoy an extra perk! Stop by the Member Bar on the third floor of the Modern Wing to relax with complimentary tea and coffee and enjoy the expansive views of the city skyline.

What accessibility support is available for the virtual line?
Visitors with access needs are encouraged to speak with museum staff upon arrival. Staff can help explain the virtual line process, provide guidance, or offer accommodations when available to support a comfortable visit.

Are groups allowed to see Willem de Kooning Drawing? 
Groups are welcome to visit the exhibition and are encouraged to plan for a self-guided experience. To help maintain a comfortable viewing experience for all visitors, guided instruction or lecturing is not permitted inside the exhibition galleries.

What does “self-guided” mean for group visits?
Self-guided visits allow each person in your group to experience the exhibition at their own pace. Group leaders are welcome to gather their group before or after visiting the exhibition to share context, discussion prompts, or learning goals. 

Museum staff are available on-site to assist with wayfinding, entry questions, and virtual line support.

Can groups visit Willem de Kooning Drawing with an external tour operator?
Tours booked through external partners include museum admission but do not include access to ticketed exhibitions, like Willem de Kooning Drawing.

Tour participants who wish to see Willem de Kooning Drawing must purchase a Willem de Kooning Drawing exhibition ticket and join the virtual line individually.

What should groups expect on the day of their visit?
Daily attendance may affect how and when groups enter the exhibition, and groups may be directed to join the virtual line or adjust their entry timing to support a comfortable experience for all visitors. Museum staff are happy to assist on-site and help support a smooth experience.

Can educators visit the exhibition on their own or to prepare for a class?
Yes, Pre-K–12 teachers, teaching artists working in schools, and caregivers who are homeschooling are welcome to visit the museum independently to prepare for lessons or plan student visits.

Eligible educators may request an Illinois Educator Pass, which provides free general admission. To see Willem de Kooning Drawing, a $7 exhibition ticket is required, which can be purchased at the admissions desk when you check-in.

If you’re planning a student visit, access to Willem de Kooning Drawing for student groups must be confirmed in advance.

How do K–12 school groups visit the exhibition?
All K–12 school group visits can arrange to see Willem de Kooning Drawing as part of their scheduled visit.

Most student visits to the Art Institute are free and include admission to Willem de Kooning Drawing, but require registration in advance. To schedule a visit to see Willem de Kooning Drawing, register for a student experience.

Questions about registration? Please contact [email protected].

What about a self-guided tour? Can my students see Willem de Kooning Drawing independently?
Yes, students can explore the galleries and see Willem de Kooning Drawing independently. However, all visitors—including students—must join the virtual line to enter. Wait times typically range from 30 to 90 minutes and may be longer on weekends. We recommend that educators plan ahead and check in with a staff member as soon as you arrive if visiting during public hours.

We also offer a range of resources to enrich your visit as well as your pre- and post-visit learning. Take a look at our Tools for Teaching & Learning and reach out to our experienced educators via the Ask an Educator form for suggestions on how to design your visit, including recommendations on artworks, exhibitions, and resources.

Can my college or university class visit Willem de Kooning Drawing as a group?
No, college and university classes are not allowed in ticketed exhibitions as a guided group.

Students may visit ticketed exhibitions, such as Willem de Kooning Drawing, independently or in small groups of 5 or fewer, but must have a Willem de Kooning Drawing ticket and join the exhibition’s virtual line.

When can my class visit? Is it possible to visit during member-only hours?
College and university groups can only access the museum on the days and hours that the museum is open to the public: Monday, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Wednesday, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Thursday, 11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m., and Friday–Sunday, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 

The first hour of every day, 10:00–11:00 a.m., is reserved for member-only viewing. If you are an Art Institute member, please keep in mind that membership benefits do not apply to college and university group visits.

Do college and university groups need to schedule their visit in advance?
Self-guided visits do not require advance scheduling. However, we recommend purchasing tickets online in advance of your visit.

We strongly recommend limiting self-guided groups to 20 participants or fewer. Larger groups may be asked to divide into smaller groups when you arrive.

Are discounted or free tickets available for college and university students?
Yes, individual students at University Partner institutions receive free general admission and ticketed exhibition access, including to Willem de Kooning Drawing, by presenting a valid university ID at one of the museum’s admissions counters.

We also offer discounted tickets to all university students with valid student IDs. We strongly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance. We do not offer discounted tickets for large groups.

Please note if you are not affiliated with a University Partner, ticketed exhibitions, including Willem de Kooning Drawing, require a $7 exhibition ticket. 

Can my class book a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available for college and university groups. Learn more at College and University Groups.

Please note guided tours including in-gallery instruction and discussion are not permitted inside ticketed exhibitions, including Willem de Kooning Drawing.

If my class visits Willem de Kooning Drawing independently, is there a meeting space or seminar room we can reserve for discussion?
No, college and university groups may not reserve museum spaces for classes.

Reading Room and Study Rooms visits are possible for faculty-led college/university classes designed around the unique holdings in the Libraries and Archives. Read about our resources. 

The Photography and Media department and the Prints and Drawings department each have a study room where individuals and classes can request to view works of art not on view in the galleries. Learn more.

Are there programs related to the exhibition?
Yes. A range of programs accompany Willem de Kooning Drawing, including lectures, member previews, and public programs offered throughout the exhibition’s run. 

See related programs and events.

What should I know about visiting on a lecture day?
On days when a lecture or program related to the exhibition is scheduled, the exhibition may experience increased demand immediately following the event. Other museum spaces—such as dining areas, including the Member Bar—may also be busier during these times.

Visiting earlier in the day, during the daily member-only hour, or allowing additional time after programs may offer a more relaxed experience.

Planning tip: If you plan to attend a program and visit the exhibition on the same day, we recommend building in extra time.

What if a program is sold out?
Many on-site programs are recorded and shared online following the event. For select programs, a walk-up line may be available on the day of the event, depending on capacity. Recorded programs include captioning when available.

Watch past programs on our videos page.

What accessibility services are available for programs?
The museum offers several accessibility supports:

Assistive listening systems are available in all auditoriums and include t-coil compatibility. Open and closed captioning is also offered at most public lectures, and ASL interpretation may be available upon request. Please email [email protected] at least two weeks in advance of the event.

Is there an audio tour?
Yes. An exhibition audio tour is available through the Art Institute’s free mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.

Download the Art Institute of Chicago app

How can I receive updates during the exhibition run?
Sign up to receive email updates with information about programs, member opportunities, and special moments throughout the exhibition.

You can also follow the Art Institute of Chicago on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and exhibition highlights.

Where is the exhibition located?
Willem de Kooning Drawing is in our new Regenstein Hall, on the first floor of the museum, near the spiral staircase. Elevators and accessible routes are available to reach the exhibition galleries. Museum staff are happy to assist with wayfinding upon arrival. Because the museum spans multiple buildings and floors, please allow extra time to navigate between wings. The Michigan Avenue entrance is the closest entrance to the exhibition galleries.