The cost of living may be rising, but exploring Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re an Illinois resident, you can take advantage of free admission days at some of the city’s top museums. From world-renowned institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago to interactive experiences at the Museum of Science and Industry, these opportunities let you enjoy culture and history without the hefty price tag.
Free days vary by location, so checking schedules in advance is key to making the most of these deals. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or science enthusiast, there’s a museum waiting for you—at no cost.
Here are some places to check out.
Chicago History Museum
Click here for more information about the free days at the Chicago History Museum.
March
- Tuesday, March 4, 2025
- Wednesday, March 12, 2025
- Thursday, March 27, 2025
April
- Wednesday, April 16, 2025
- Wednesday, April 30, 2025
May
- Thursday, May 8, 2025
- Monday, May 26, 2025
Shedd Aquarium
Check below for the free night dates (5pm – 9pm). Click here for more information.
March
- Tuesday, March 4, 2025
- Tuesday, March 11, 2025
- Tuesday, March 18, 2025
- Tuesday, March 25, 2025
April
- Tuesday, April 1, 2025
- Tuesday, April 8, 2025
- Tuesday, April 15, 2025
- Tuesday, April 22, 2025
- Tuesday, April 29, 2025
May
- Tuesday, May 6, 2025
- Tuesday, May 13, 2025
- Tuesday, May 20, 2025
- Tuesday, May 27, 2025
The Field Museum
Click here for more information about free days and events.
March
- Wednesday, March 5, 2025
- Wednesday, March 12, 2025
- Wednesday, March 19, 2025
- Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Art Institute of Chicago
Click here for more information.
March
- Monday, March 3, 2025
- Wednesday, March 5, 2025
- Thursday, March 6, 2025
- Friday, March 7, 2025
- Monday, March 10, 2025
- Wednesday, March 12, 2025
- Thursday, March 13, 2025
- Friday, March 14, 2025
Here are more free days at museums in Chicago:
- DuSable Black History Museum: Currently free all day Wednesdays
- Adler Planetarium: Every Wednesday evening from 4pm – 10pm
- Hyde Park Art Center: Free and open to the public
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