Art Institute of Chicago Tours
1,517 reviews
Located in Chicago’s Grant Park, the Art Institute showcases 300,000 works of art ranging from ancient works to pieces created by today’s foremost artists. More than 1.5 million visitors from across the globe flock to the museum annually, making it one of Chicago’s most-visited destinations.
The Basics
In addition to permanent collections that include Pablo Picasso’s The Old Guitarist, Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks, and Grant Wood’s American Gothic, the Art Institute hosts about 30 special exhibitions each year. These special exhibits showcase the talents of the museum’s world-renowned curatorial staff and highlight specific elements within collections, scientific research, and other innovations. Even the building itself is a work of art—it was constructed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, which later became the World’s Fair.
You may visit the museum independently or as part of a group walking or Segway tour. Purchase skip-the-line access so you can spend more time browsing the collections than waiting in line. Admission to the institute is included in both the Chicago CityPASS and Chicago Explorer Pass cards. It’s also a stop on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wheelchairs and strollers are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Hearing-assist devices are available at the Michigan Avenue checkroom and sign language tours and tours with sighted guides are available with advance notice.
- Dining options include a cafe, outdoor dining, and an upscale Italian restaurant.
How to Get There
The museum is located in downtown Chicago adjacent to Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. There are two easily accessible entrances: one from the historic main building at 111 S. Michigan Avenue and one from the Modern Wing at 159 E. Monroe Street. Several parking garages are nearby, or you can choose valet service. A number of city bus and L Train routes pass within a block or two.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily from 10:30am–5pm, except Thursdays, when it is open until 8pm. General admission is free to all Illinois residents every Thursday evening from 5–8pm. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Gardens at the Art Institute of Chicago
The institute’s works of art aren’t confined to walled buildings—they extend into several outdoor spaces as well. You’ll find traditional flower gardens, mature trees, shade-loving plants, succulents, and more on the grounds, plus one-of-a-kind sculptures, outdoor installations, and reused architectural fragments. The perfect place to take a break from the hubbub inside, the gardens provide a much-appreciated respite to museum visitors looking to take a quick breather.
Address: 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603-6404, USA
Admission: Varies
Admission Tickets (1)
- 46 reviews
- Explore the Art Institute, Chicago’s world-class art museum and the second-largest in the United States, with this Fast Pass Admission ticket. Situated in Grant Park, the museum’s incredible range of impressionist, post-impressionist, modern and contemporary works is near the top of the list of Chicago’s must-see sights. Among the artists on display are works by Pollack, van Gogh, Renoir, Monet and Picasso plus, plus a striking new Modern Wing and cutting edge graphic and industrial design.With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the Art Institute.
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From US$35.00
10 Tours & Activities to Experience
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US$35.00
Art Institute of Chicago Fast Pass Admission
- Explore the Art Institute, Chicago’s world-class art museum and the second-largest in the United States, with this Fast Pass Admission ticket. Situated in Grant Park, the museum’s incredible range of impressionist, post-impressionist, modern and contemporary works is near the top of the list of Chicago’s must-see sights. Among the artists on display are works by Pollack, van Gogh, Renoir, Monet and Picasso plus, plus a striking new Modern Wing and cutting edge graphic and industrial design.With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the Art Institute.
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Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
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Chicago Explorer Pass
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Chicago CityPASS
- Get the most out of your trip to Chicago as you enjoy discount access to five of the city’s top attractions with the CityPASS. This easy-to-carry booklet grants you free entry into top-tier sights including the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, Skydeck Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry and 360 Chicago (John Hancock Observatory). Plus enjoy a wealth of useful Chicago tips and savings at a variety of other venues and retailers.
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Chicago Grand Half-Day Tour
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City Sightseeing Chicago Hop On Hop Off Tour
- See more of the Windy City with this money-saving, 2.5-hour, hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus ticket. Enjoy informative on-board narration as you cruise by 13 Chicago landmarks including the Art Institute, Field Museum, John Hancock Building, and much more. A range of ticket validation periods, ranging from 24 to 72 hours, also help ensure maximum flexibility.
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Chicago City Tour and Chicago River Cruise
- See Chicago from a new perspective during this 4-hour combined bus and boat excursion covering some of the city's most iconic sights. First discover Windy City landmarks such as the skyscrapers of the Loop, Grant Park, Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field and the former stomping grounds of President Obama during a narrated coach tour. Then take a Chicago cruise aboard your state-of-the-art yacht, enjoying a cruise of the Chicago River that provides a unique look at the city's architecture from the water. This half-day Chicago exploration also includes hotel pickup.
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Go Chicago Card with Skip the Line Access
- Enjoy admission to more than 26 of Chicago's most popular attractions with the Go Chicago™ Card. Create your own itinerary and sightsee at your own pace after printing your own pass at home; don't waste time redeeming vouchers. This card offers something for all members of the family, from thrilling rides at Navy Pier to undersea learning at the Shedd Aquarium. Take a hop-on hop-off trolley tour or admire the stunning views from SkyDeck Chicago. The Go Chicago™ Card is available in 1-, 2-, 3- or 5-day options.
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Private Guided SUV Tour for up to 4 Guests
- Experience Chicago with a private guide and seperate driver in a luxury SUV. The tour is fully customizable with different itineraries to suit your tastes and interests. Visit Wrigley Field, peruse Fulton Market, and bring your camera for famous skyline views. Then get of the beaten path and venture into local neighborhoods. This tour is ideal for visitors who value privacy and who are looking for a personalized experience.
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Chicago Holiday Lights Tour by Segway
- Soak up the Windy City’s festive holiday feel and explore local landmarks with ease on this 2-hour Segway tour in Chicago. Hop onto your Segway and spin through Chicago’s Millennium Park to the Loop. With your guide, you'll watch skaters enjoying the ice rink, explore Michigan Avenue and admire festive displays at Macy's department store. See the German Christmas market stalls at Daley Plaza, where locals sip hot chocolate and munch 'bratwurst,' and enjoy the atmosphere beneath the city’s Christmas tree. Numbers are limited to eight for a small-group experience.
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Chicago Segway Art and Architectural Tour
- Explore the art and architectural highlights of Chicago on a Segway during this 2-hour guided tour. This family-friendly tour takes visitors by the outdoor sculptures, landmark buildings and iconic skyline of the city. Accompanied by educational and informative commentary, this city tour saves you from hours of walking and lets you see all of Chicago's top art and architectural attractions in one tour.
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