As Chicago basks in the warmth of summer, residents can take refuge from the heat by exploring the city’s rich museum scene.
With an impressive array of museums dedicated to art, science, culture, and history, Chicago offers a plethora of options for a cool day indoors.
Many institutions are extending their hospitality by offering free admission to various groups or on select days throughout the summer.
Here’s a detailed overview of the free admission days available at some notable Chicago museums for the remainder of the summer season.
**Art Institute of Chicago**
Residents of Illinois can enjoy free admission every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. through September 25.
Tickets for this time slot can be reserved in advance through the museum’s website.
Additionally, Illinois residents under 18, educators in pre-K through 12th grade, active-duty military members, and those with LINK and WIC cards can always enter for free.
**Adler Planetarium**
Illinois residents can visit the planetarium free of charge on Wednesdays from 4 to 10 p.m.
As with other museums, tickets must be reserved online ahead of time.
The Adler Planetarium also offers free admission for teachers and active-duty, reserve, and veteran military personnel along with their families (up to five admissions).
**Chicago History Museum**
There are scheduled free admission days specifically for Illinois residents on July 24, July 30, August 13, and August 28.
The History Museum operates from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Tuesday through Saturday, and from 12 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
In addition, the museum provides free entry for Illinois teachers, military personnel (both active-duty and veterans), Chicago Police Department, Chicago Fire Department personnel, and Illinois residents aged 18 and younger.
**Chicago Field Museum**
On Wednesdays, free admission is extended to Illinois residents, encouraging families to explore the wonders of natural history.
The Field Museum welcomes visitors daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., highlighting the importance of planning ahead by reserving tickets online.
**DuSable Museum of African American History**
Every Wednesday, the DuSable Museum opens its doors with free admission for all.
Visitors can enjoy the educational exhibitions from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.
The museum also offers free admission to active-duty military, first responders, Illinois public school students, and several other designated groups.
**Griffin Museum of Science and Industry**
During August and September, free admission days will be provided for Illinois residents on select dates.
The museum operates daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. until August 17, ensuring ample opportunities for engagement.
Active-duty military personnel, veterans, Chicago firefighters, police officers, and Illinois teachers receive unlimited free entry.
**Shedd Aquarium**
From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on July 22, July 29, August 5, August 12, August 19, and August 26, Illinois residents can visit Shedd Aquarium for free.
Tickets can be reserved ahead of time online or by phone, with a nominal convenience fee of $5.
Free admission is also a privilege for educators from nearby states, Chicago police and firefighters, and active-duty military members.
**Museum of Contemporary Art**
Illinois residents can enjoy free admission on Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Additionally, entry is free for those aged 18 and under, Illinois teachers, visitors with disabilities, their caregivers, and military and first responder personnel.
**Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum**
Every Thursday, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum offers free admission to residents of Illinois.
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the museum suggests a $10 donation upon entry but allows free admission for educators, military personnel, veterans, and infants under 12 months.
**Swedish American Museum**
This museum offers free admission for all visitors on the second Tuesday of each month, welcoming guests from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
**Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art**
Visitors can enter the Lizzadro Museum for free every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with continual free admission for active-duty military members and children under six.
**National Museum of Mexican Art**
Open daily, this museum invites visitors to enter without charge from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday through Sunday.
**National Public Housing Museum**
Also free every day, this museum operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday.
**National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture**
Open daily, this museum offers free entry from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
In summary, Chicago’s museums present a wonderful opportunity to discover art, history, and culture while offering free admission during specific days, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these enriching experiences.
image source from：nbcchicago
