If you can’t find the answers to your questions here, read our FAQs for Members, Families, Teens, Educators, and the Library and Archives.
What are the Art Institute’s hours?
The museum is open to the public Monday 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday–Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
The first hour of every day, 10–11 a.m., is reserved for member-only viewing.
We are closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
Is the Museum Shop open?
The Museum Shop and Modern Shop are open during all member and public hours: Monday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday–Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Is the museum open on holidays?
The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. It is open on all other holidays.
When are your free hours?
Our next free days for Illinois residents will be weekdays (Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays), November 27–December 22, 2023. If you reserve your free tickets online in advance, your resident status will be verified using the zip code associated with the billing address provided.
Learn more about our ongoing free admission opportunities, including for the following groups:
- Kids under 14
- Chicago teens under 18
- Students who attend one of our University Partner schools
- LINK and WIC cardholders
- Illinois educators
- Active-duty military and their families (Armed Services Day–Labor Day)
How much does it cost to go to the Art Institute?
The cost of your general admission ticket depends on if you live in Chicago, someplace else in Illinois, or elsewhere, and if you’re a student or a senior. Please refer to our ticketing chart. And remember, admission is always free for members and children under 14.
Do general admission and Fast Pass tickets include access to special exhibitions?
Both general admission and Fast Pass tickets allow you to see all of the museum’s nonticketed special exhibitions. Occasionally exhibitions require an additional charge. When purchasing online, you’ll be asked if you’d like to add a special exhibition ticket to your ticket order.
Do CityPASS tickets include access to special exhibitions?
CityPASS tickets allow visitors to access all of the museum’s nonticketed special exhibitions—and to bypass the general admission lines at entrances. Simply present the QR code from your CityPASS confirmation email at the ticket-scanning podiums to enter the galleries.
Occasionally exhibitions like the upcoming Picasso: Drawing from Life (November 11, 2023–April 8, 2024) require an additional ticket. CityPASS holders who would like to add Picasso tickets to their order in advance of their visit are able to email ticketing@artic.edu. Otherwise, we suggest arriving at the museum early (the museum opens at 11:00 a.m.) to purchase Picasso tickets, as we expect this highly anticipated exhibition to sell out daily.
Do tickets allow reentry?
Yes, a ticket is good for the full day for which it is issued. That means you can visit for a while, leave to relax in one of our gardens or take a stroll in Millennium Park, and then come back in for more art.
Do members need tickets?
No, members never need tickets and never have to wait in admission lines. Simply show your member card and photo ID at the ticket-scanning podiums to enter the galleries.
Do I need to purchase tickets in advance of my visit?
Ordering advance tickets, including free tickets for Illinois residents, is encouraged.
What about free tickets? Can I get those online in advance?
Illinois residents and Chicago teens can reserve their tickets online in advance. Free tickets for children can also be reserved online. However, to receive some free ticket types—for Illinois educators, WIC/LINK cardholders, University Partners, Corporate Partners, members of the military and their families—visitors should stop by the admissions desks on the day of your visit.
Do I have to pay for tickets for my kids?
Admission for children under 14 and Chicago teens under 18 is always free. Please reserve free tickets in advance online.
When does the Art Institute offer free admission?
Our next free days for Illinois residents will be weekdays (Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays), November 27–December 22, 2023.
Learn more about our ongoing free admission opportunities, including for the following groups:
- Kids under 14
- Chicago teens under 18
- Students who attend one of our University Partner schools
- LINK and WIC cardholders
- Illinois educators
- Active-duty military and their families (Armed Services Day–Labor Day)
Does free admission include access to special exhibitions?
Free tickets include access to all nonticketed exhibitions but not ticketed exhibitions like the upcoming Picasso: Drawing from Life (November 11, 2023–April 8, 2024). Illinois residents, Chicago teens, and those including child tickets can add a special exhibition ticket when they reserve ahead online. (Exhibition tickets for children up to age 14 are free but still need to be reserved.) Those not able to get their tickets in advance are encouraged to inquire about the availability of special exhibition tickets when they check in. We suggest arriving at the museum early—the museum opens at 11:00 a.m.—as we expect this highly anticipated exhibition to sell out daily.
Are there any rules to visiting or how tickets can be used?
By visiting or communicating with the museum, you agree to comply with our visiting terms and conditions.
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. General admission tickets and membership benefits may not be used for group visits or for commercial purposes. Any unauthorized use may result in a membership or general admission tickets being revoked.
Does Picasso require an extra ticket?
Yes, visitors with general admission or Fast Pass tickets will need a separate $5 exhibition ticket to experience Picasso: Drawing from Life. (Members do not need tickets.)
We recommend getting your Picasso ticket in advance of your visit, as we expect this highly anticipated exhibition to sell out daily.
Do members need tickets to see Picasso?
No, members never need tickets to visit the museum or any special exhibitions. Plus, members enjoy expedited access in the exhibition’s virtual line, which they should join as soon as they arrive at the museum.
Please note that all ticket holders and members need to be in the virtual line one hour before the museum closes each day.
Does my CityPASS ticket include access to Picasso?
CityPASS tickets allow visitors to access all of the museum’s nonticketed special exhibitions but does not include entry to ticketed ones like Picasso. CityPASS holders who would like to add Picasso tickets to their order in advance of their visit are able to email ticketing@artic.edu. Otherwise, we suggest arriving at the museum early (the museum opens at 11:00 a.m.) to purchase Picasso tickets, as we expect this highly anticipated exhibition to sell out daily.
Is there timed entry for the Picasso exhibition?
No, there is no timed entry, but we are using a virtual line, as we have for many popular exhibitions, to manage capacity in the space. Entry is first-come, first-served each day via the virtual line.
Members and Fast Pass ticket holders receive expedited access once they have joined the exhibition’s virtual line.
What is a virtual line?
A virtual line is a waitlist that you join via your smartphone and that advances your spot in line while you do other things. So instead of having to stand in a physical line waiting to get into an exhibition, you can spend that time visiting old favorites or other current exhibitions, or grabbing a coffee or a bite to eat in one of the museum’s cafés before your exhibition experience.
Please note that all ticket holders and members need to be in the virtual line one hour before the museum closes each day.
How do I join the virtual line?
Using the camera on your smartphone, scan the QR code located on signs near the museum entrances. This will prompt you to join the virtual line by selecting the exhibition and then entering the number of guests in your party. You’ll receive a text message confirming that you have joined the virtual line and another one letting you know when it’s your turn to enter the exhibition.
I don’t have a smartphone. How can I join the virtual line?
If you do not have a smartphone, connect with a museum representative for assistance.
How long should I expect to wait?
We expect wait times to range from 30 to 90 minutes. Weekends, especially holiday weekends, may have longer wait times, while Sundays and Mondays tend to be less busy days. We recommend arriving at the museum early and joining the virtual line as soon as you arrive. The museum opens at 10:00 a.m. for members and 11:00 a.m. for the public.
How do I know when I’m at the front of the line?
After you join the virtual line, you will receive a text message confirming that you are in the virtual line. When it’s your turn to enter the exhibition, you’ll receive another text message letting you know it’s time to head to the exhibition, which is in galleries 124–127, on the first floor close to the Michigan Avenue entrance. Please note as you make your way to these galleries, that the museum is composed of many buildings, and the first level is the only level that connects all of them.
Do members need to join the virtual line?
Yes, members need to join the virtual line but enjoy expedited access in line. Membership staff are happy to support you if you need assistance or have any questions.
Do members have special viewing hours?
Yes, members have exclusive access to Picasso: Drawing from Life during two member preview days before the exhibition opens to the public, Thursday, November 9, 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m., and Friday, November 10, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Members also enjoy member-only viewing hours of Picasso—and the entire museum—10:00–11:00 a.m. every day that we are open, Thursday–Monday.
Are there events featuring the exhibition?
Yes, we’re thrilled to offer member previews and lectures, with more events to come. If you are a member registering for a member lecture, please have your member ID handy. And if any questions arise during or about registration, please email membership@artic.edu or stop by a membership desk during your next visit.
Is there an audio tour?
No, there is not an exhibition audio tour, but there’s plenty more to explore before or after your exhibition experience. Stop by other works in our galleries by Picasso—among them, The Old Guitarist, The Red Armchair, Mother and Child, Portrait of Sylvette David, and Jester. You can also take a self-guided tour of works that demonstrate the artist’s circles of influence. (A link to the tour will also be available via a QR code at the exhibition exit).
How do I see Picasso if it’s sold out?
If tickets are sold out on the day that you are visiting or would like to visit, consider joining as a member. Members never need tickets to visit the museum or special exhibitions, including Picasso, plus they enjoy a host of benefits like special viewing hours, exclusive lectures, and discounts in the shops and cafés.
Can I get to the museum on public transportation?
Yes, CTA buses, EL trains, and the Metra commuter rail are all great options to get you to the museum.
What’s the best route when driving?
Get driving directions from various city locations.
Where can I park?
There are many underground lots only a block away, including parking found via SpotHero. Members receive a discount on parking.
Is there a bike-sharing program I could use?
Divvy is Chicago’s bike-sharing program, and several stations are located near the Art Institute. Learn more.
Does the museum have a gift shop?
Yes, the museum has two on-site stores, the Museum Shop, just inside the Michigan Avenue entrance, and the Modern Shop, just inside the Modern Wing entrance. Both shops are open during all member and public hours: Monday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday–Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. There is also an online store.
Is the café or restaurant open?
Yes, we have two dining spaces that are open to all visitors: the Market offers an array of Chicago food favorites, including sandwiches, salads, and desserts, and the Modern Café offers lighter fare plus a full coffee, tea, and beverage menu.
Additionally, the Member Bar at Terzo Piano, a space for our Art Institute members, provides free coffee and tea as well as wine, beer, and light snacks for purchase. Learn more about our dining options.
Do I need to be vaccinated to visit the museum?
No, in accordance with City of Chicago guidelines, proof of vaccination is no longer required to visit the museum.
Do I need to wear a face covering?
No, visitors are no longer required to wear masks during their visit.
Are there other restrictions to visiting?
Any visitors who are disrespectful or discourteous to other guests, staff, or volunteers—or engage in behaviors that are disruptive of others’ enjoyment of the museum, such as playing music or video, staging unauthorized performances, using sound amplification devices (excluding assistive-listening devices), blocking pathways, soliciting, leafleting, signature gathering, or picketing—may be asked to leave.
Please reference our member FAQs.
Is accessible parking available?
Accessible parking is located in several garages near the Art Institute. Please note that they no longer accept oversized vans.
Millennium Park Garage
Entrance at Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, with 6’ 8’ clearance in some sections and an elevator at the exit
East Monroe Street Garage
Entrance at Columbus Drive and Monroe Street, with 6’ 8” clearance and exit ramps at Monroe Street
Grant Park North Garage
Entrance at Michigan Avenue between Madison and Randolph, with 6’ 6” clearance for vans and an elevator at the exit
Do you have wheelchairs?
Manually operated wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis at both of the museum’s checkrooms—no reservation required. Personal wheelchairs are always welcome.
Are audio tours available?
Please note that the museum’s full catalog of audio tour content is available on our free app; we do not offer rentable devices. The free app is available to download via the App Store or Google Play. Just remember to bring your headphones to listen while you’re in the galleries so that you don’t disturb other visitors.
Do you have a map of the museum?
View and download a floor plan here.
Do you welcome service animals?
Yes, service animals are welcome at the museum. For inquiries regarding emotional support animals, please contact access@artic.edu.
Can I check my coat and bag?
Yes, our checkrooms are free for all visitors. Bags and backpacks larger than 13 x 17 x 4 inches are not allowed in the galleries and must be checked, but we cannot accept food, beverages, flowers, or balloons.
What items are not allowed in the galleries?
- Weapons and hazardous materials
- Bags, camera bags, and purses larger than 13 x 17 x 4 inches
- Backpacks and backpack baby carriers
- Art materials other than pencils (including ink pens)
- Shopping bags
- Flowers and balloons
- Food and drinks other than water bottles
- Toys
- Tripods, flash attachments, video cameras, and “selfie sticks”
- Umbrellas (small umbrellas can be stowed in bags)
- Wrapped packages (gifts)
Can I bring a water bottle into the galleries?
Water bottles are allowed in the museum and can be filled at the water bottle–filling stations that have replaced all water fountains. Bottles must be stowed safely in a bag when visitors are in any space that houses art. If you do not have a bag, the museum will provide one.
Can I go on a tour?
Yes, free guided tours are offered at 1:00 and 3:00 every day the museum is open. Tours are also available at 6:00 on Thursday. Tours are also offered in Spanish on Friday and Saturday at 2:00. See our calendar for more details on all our events.
The museum’s free downloadable app also offers a variety of self-guided tours, and our online highlights provide another way of enjoying the collection.
If you’re looking to book a tour for an adult group, we invite you to learn more about our group tour offerings. We offer guided options through our external partners as well as ways to lead your own museum experience.
Which exhibitions will be on view during my visit?
See a list of current and future exhibitions.
How will I know what artworks I can see during my visit?
The Art Institute is an active lending institution. For the most up-to-date information about gallery closures and significant works of art that may not be on view, please check our Collection Updates page.
How long has the museum had its lions?
Made in 1893 by American artist Edward Kemeys, the museum’s beloved bronze lion sculptures have stood guard outside the museum since May 1894. In late summer 2022, the pair were removed from their plinths to undergo conservation treatment off-site. The treatment included a thorough steam cleaning and the application of protective wax coating, and the lions returned home, looking cleaner and greener than ever!
Can I take pictures in the galleries?
We encourage you to take pictures of the collection and special exhibitions for personal use. Non-flash photography is permitted in all permanent galleries. Signs indicate the few works that are not allowed to be photographed due to a lender requirement.
Are there restrictions on the type of equipment that is permitted?
- Equipment must not exceed the size of a SLR camera designed for personal use.
- Flash, tripods, monopods, handheld microphones, selfie sticks, and other extraneous equipment are not allowed anywhere in the museum, its gardens, or public spaces.
- All imaging documentation must be for personal, nondistributional, noncommercial use only.
Are selfie sticks permitted in the galleries?
No, for the safety of the artwork and other patrons, selfie sticks are not allowed.
How do I arrange a photo shoot or filming at the museum?
Members of the media should contact our Department of Public Affairs at (312) 443-3363 or aic.publicaffairs@artic.edu to arrange shoots for still photography and film.
Is sketching allowed in the museum?
Sketching with pencils only is allowed in all galleries, including special exhibitions, provided there are no restrictions by lenders. Please check with a security officer in your gallery to confirm that sketching in that space is permitted; officers have the discretion to disallow sketching if the galleries are crowded or if sketching is creating a disturbance. If a work of art is not framed or protected by a vitrine or case, sketchers are asked to remain at least five feet away from the art. Paper and pads must be no larger than 13 x 17 inches. Easels, stools, or anything that interferes with movement in the gallery are not permitted.
How can I get a job at the Art Institute?
See a list of job opportunities available at the museum and the School of the Art Institute.
Do I have to have an art degree to get a job at the museum?
There are many different types of jobs at the museum—curatorial, teaching, marketing, accounting, security, human resources, facilities management, library sciences, and retail, just to name a few. Different positions require different skills and abilities, and for many positions, a major in art history or fine art is not required. To explore the variety of positions currently available at the Art Institute, please visit our employment page.
Can you tell me the value of my artwork?
The Art Institute is not permitted to conduct appraisals or authentications of artwork. Here is a list of a few organizations that do.
Can you give me information about an artist or a work of art?
The Ryerson and Burnham Libraries have numerous resources for conducting your art research.
I have a work of art that I want to sell/give to the Art Institute.
The Art Institute welcomes bequests and promised gifts of works of art. We ask that you notify the museum of your intentions beforehand so that the appropriate curatorial department can review and advise you as to whether your work is a good fit for the collection.
To have your donation considered, please provide the following information:
- Your name and address
- The title of the artwork and the artist’s name
- Provenance (history of ownership)
- Description of the size and condition
- Photographs of the artwork
This information may be emailed to artdonations@artic.edu.
Can I buy a print of a certain work of art?
The Museum Shop offers many posters and prints.
Can I hold a party at the Art Institute?
We’re excited to return to hosting events at the Art Institute of Chicago. We invite you to browse our various spaces and to fill out our inquiry form to learn more about rental opportunities.
Can we exchange links?
The Art Institute welcomes you to provide a link to its site, providing you adhere to the link-exchange policy.
I have a question that isn’t answered here. How can I contact the museum?
We’re happy to answer your questions by phone or email.
