Situated in the heart of Chicago, the renowned Art Institute holds the title of the city’s premier museum. As one of the earliest and most expansive art museums within the U.S., it beckons approximately 1.5 million art enthusiasts from across the globe every year. The vastness of the Art Institute implies that visitors looking to fully embrace its riches might need to schedule more than a single day’s visit.
The Art Institute of Chicago, inaugurated in 1893, is distinguished by its emblematic lion statues that guard the museum’s entrance. Its extensive permanent collection, comprising nearly 300,000 artworks, is awe-inspiring. This assortment showcases renowned masterpieces and hidden gems from all corners of the world. Additionally, with a rotating schedule of more than 30 art exhibits, recurrent visitors will consistently find new sources of intrigue.
Essentials to See at the Art Institute of Chicago
Here are some timeless, must-see works for anyone keen on experiencing the essence of the Art Institute of Chicago:
- “Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte” by Georges Seurat stands as an eminent piece of the post-impressionist period. First showcased in Paris in 1884, it’s an iconic part of the museum’s collection.
- Marc Chagall’s “America Windows” gained increased recognition after it featured in the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” years after its initial display at the Art Institute in 1977.
- The Art Institute exhibits the second of Van Gogh’s three versions of “The Bedroom.” The first one, nearly identical, is housed in Amsterdam, while a smaller version resides in Paris.
- Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks” provides a classic depiction of the solitude of urban life in the 1940s through its portrayal of an ever-open diner.
Art Institute of Chicago Amenities
Dining Options
The Art Institute boasts three cafes for refreshments and mid-day meals, all opening their doors by 11am:
- Museum Cafe, nestled in McKinlock Court on the lower level, is a family-friendly dining spot offering a healthy variety of meals for both children and adults.
- Terzo Piano, located on the third floor of the Modern Wing, specializes in fine dining, serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes with fresh, organic ingredients sourced from local farms. Prior reservations may be required.
- Balcony Cafe, situated on the second floor of the Modern Wing, is a quick-service food joint offering a range of beverages, light bites, and sweet treats.
Gift Shop
The museum’s gift shop offers an eclectic assortment of souvenirs, including museum-inspired items, a variety of jewelry, and gifts. Drawing largely from the special exhibit collections, the shop also offers books on paintings, stationary items, magnets, tote bags, and a lot more.
Facilities
The Art Institute of Chicago extends a warm welcome to all guests, providing resources and programs specifically tailored for children and adults with disabilities.
- Guest Accessibility at the Museum
- The museum heartily welcomes the presence of service animals.
- Both of the main entry points (Modern Wing and Michigan Avenue) are wheelchair friendly. The Modern Wing Entrance even boasts a specific drop-off lane for vehicles coming from eastbound Monroe Street.
- For parking, options like the East Monroe Street, Grant Park North Garages, and Millennium Park are wheelchair accessible, though they are not equipped to handle oversized vans.
- To facilitate movement across all floors, elevators are conveniently positioned within the building.
- Additionally, manual wheelchairs can be borrowed at no cost, given on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Art Institute of Chicago: Nearby Highlights
The surrounding region boasts numerous attractions such as Butler Field, Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, and the spectacular Lake Michigan, among others, all conveniently located near Millennium Park.
Reaching the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute, situated across from Millennium Park and just steps away from Lake Michigan, can be found at 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago IL 60603. For the Modern Wing entrance, navigate to 159 East Monroe Street.
Parking Provisions
Upon your arrival at the Art Institute, a variety of parking choices are at your disposal. The easiest, though likely the priciest, is the valet service available at the Modern Wing entrance every day from museum opening hours until half an hour post-closing.
Several public parking garages are nearby, including Grant Park (North & South), East Monroe Street, and Millennium Park Garages. Street parking is available as well, but be aware that Columbus Drive, east of the museum, has restricted hours and enforces strict towing rules for violations.
Public Transit Access
Just a block east of the Loop, the Art Institute can be easily reached via the “L” train.
- Adams/Wabash station is just a block west of the museum and is served by the Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple lines.
- The Monroe underground station, which is a few blocks away, is served by the Red and Blue lines.
- Several bus routes also have stops right in front of the museum.
- Both Van Buren and Millennium underground stations on Michigan Avenue are stops for Metra, Chicago’s commuter rail system.
Bicycle Accessibility
Chicago’s Divvy bike-sharing system offers easy access to the Art Institute, with several stations situated nearby.
Ideal Time to Visit the Art Institute of Chicago
Open from 10:30am to 5:30pm daily, and until 8:00 pm on Thursdays, the Art Institute of Chicago welcomes visitors throughout the week. For a quieter visit, consider coming early on weekdays, particularly between 12noon and 3pm when crowds are typically thinner. Residents of Chicago and Illinois can avail certain benefits.
Art Institute of Chicago: Insider Recommendations
The Art Institute’s complimentary app provides mobile and audio tours, complete with behind-the-scenes narratives, expert commentary, and music to immerse you in the art world. It also offers information on current exhibits and an interactive map that’s location-aware to assist in navigating the museum.
Discounted entry fees are available for students, children, teenagers, and seniors aged 65 or above. Residents of Chicago and Illinois may also be eligible for discounts.
If your itinerary includes multiple tourist sites in Chicago, consider the Chicago City PASS, Go Chicago Card, or Explorer Pass. These passes include admission to the Art Institute.
The Art Institute of Chicago
- Address: 111 S Michigan Ave Chicago, IL 60603
- Phone: (312) 443-3600
- Website: https://www.artic.edu/
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