The Art Institute of Chicago
What the experts agree on
World-class Impressionist collection draws crowds to this historic museum steps from Millennium Park; blockbuster exhibitions rival major international venues, though expect lengthy waits during peak hours.
"Big boys like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum and the Chicago History Museum host blockbuster shows of world-class scope"
Bon Appétit "You can access most CTA rail lines and walk to iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and the 'Bean,' the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Riverwalk"
Condé Nast Traveler "The Art Institute is Chicago's grandest: a Beaux Arts gem flanked by two bronze lions that are as much a symbol of the city as the Willis Tower. The massive Renzo Piano-designed Modern..."
National Geographic "From photography and architecture to textiles, the Art Institute of Chicago houses a permanent collection that includes works by Eva Hesse, Ivan Albright, and Ellsworth Kelly. Save time..."
Lonely Planet "Stay downtown and mosey to the Art Institute of Chicago (advance reservations required). The second-largest art museum in the country hangs masterpieces plenty, especially impressionist..."
The perfect 3-day itinerary in Chicago
May 9, 2022
Lonely Planet "The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most beloved places to visit for locals and the city's top attraction for visitors. Even if you have just a couple hours to spare, a visit is..."
Lonely Planet "The second-largest art museum in the USA holds showstoppers plenty. Edward Hopper's lonely Nighthawks and Grant Wood's American Gothic star in side-by-side galleries. A few halls away,..."
Lonely Planet "Adult tickets here start at US$32. Download the museum's free p for audio tours and commentary on hundreds of artworks. Children younger than 14 get in for free. Free days are limited to..."
Lonely Planet "Free for under-14s, a real-life audience with some of the most recognizable paintings in the Western canon (think American Gothic, Nighthawks and A Sunday on La Grande Jatte) may stir..."
National Geographic "One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., the Art Institute of Chicago houses one of the largest collections of Impressionist art outside of France."
