If you have ever been to one of Chicago’s museums, you know that just one day is not enough to fully appreciate everything they have to offer–especially when you are with young children. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a fun and affordable day out with the family, these free museum days provide the perfect opportunity to dive into the city’s diverse offerings.
You might be familiar with some of these museums while others may be new to you, but each one has something unique and special to offer and what better way to investigate while admission is free to all Illinois residents with a valid picture ID for proof of residency.
Admission is always free. Can’t get to the zoo? Check out their live cams available online 24/7.
Oct. 21, 28: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Nov. 4, 11, 22: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Dec. 2, 5, 6, 9, 12, 13: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.(Dec. 5 and 12 ‘til 8 p.m.)
Admission is always free to current Illinois educators, teaching artists working in schools, homeschool parents, Chicago Public Library cardholders through Explore More Illinois digital passes, children under 14, teens under 18 with a valid school ID, active-duty military, and LINK and WIC cardholders with a valid EBT card. Valid identification required
Pre-registration for all tickets is required. Link provided above.
Tickets must be reserved in advance (click the link above for more information). Admission is always free for teachers with current valid school identification
Nov. 4-8, 11, 12
Dec. 9 -15
Free admission not applicable during ticketed events (e.g. Night of 1,000 Jack-O-Lanterns, Lightscape, the Orchid Show, Orchids After Dark).
Oct. 23
Nov. 5,11, 20
Dec. 18
Admission is always free for active-duty Chicago police and firefighters, teachers, residents under 18 and all children under 12. Must present proof of employment and a photo ID.
Pre-booking online is required.
- Wednesdays throughout 2024
Tickets are only available online. Must show proof of residence along with e-ticket.
Advanced reservations online. Present ticket and valid Illinois ID.
Free every day for teachers (current valid school identification required), visitors with disabilities and their caregivers, active military, veterans, police and firefighters, anyone under age 18 with valid identification.
Reserve tickets by phone at 312-939-2438 (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) or online by clicking the link above. (There will be a $5 convenience fee if reserving tickets online.)
Must present valid Illinois identification.
Reserve tickets online using the link provided above.
Tickets are timed entry. Reserve tickets in advance online using the link provided above.
Free Family Day is on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Advance tickets not necessary
Play for All
- First Saturday of the month (October 2024-June 2025)
- Museum opens at 10 a.m. (open to the public at 11 a.m.) for children and families with disabilities.
This is available to the first 250 children and families who register online (link provided above). Pre-registration required.
Other museums to visit
The following museums offer free admission every day:
Source : https://www.chicagostarmedia.com/arts_and_entertainment/chicagos-treat-free-admission-days-at-city-museums/article_2c603e4a-8c9a-11ef-bb79-0378fac393ef.html