Chicago, IL – This April, Chicago offers a cultural feast with several museums providing free admission days to Illinois residents. Here’s a guide to taking advantage of these special opportunities across the city’s prominent institutions.
Field Museum: Enjoy free entry every Wednesday. The museum operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and visitors are advised to book their free tickets online in advance. The Field Museum showcases a vast range of natural history exhibits, including dinosaur fossils and ancient artifacts, providing an engaging experience for all ages.
Swedish American Museum: Free admission is available to everyone on the second Tuesday of every month. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. Online registration for free visits is recommended. The museum explores Swedish heritage through art, cultural exhibits, and educational programs, offering a unique glimpse into Swedish-American history.
Museum of Science and Industry: Mark your calendar for April 21, the next free day. Post-April 8, the museum will adjust its hours to 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and guests are encouraged to check its website for ticketing. This museum engages visitors with interactive exhibits on technology, science, and industry, including a real submarine and a mirror maze.
The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture offers complimentary admission daily. Its doors are open 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. Celebrating Puerto Rican culture, the museum features art exhibits, workshops, and festivals that highlight the vibrant traditions and artistic contributions of Puerto Ricans.
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center: Free entry for Illinois residents, military, and first responders on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum honors the achievements and history of African Americans with exhibits that educate and inspire, focusing on cultural and historical contributions.
National Museum of Mexican Art: Enjoy free access every day, with hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. This museum celebrates Mexican art and culture with an extensive collection that includes traditional and contemporary artworks, fostering a deeper understanding of Mexican heritage.
Chicago History Museum: Illinois residents can visit for free on April 10, 18, and 24. Operating hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The museum provides a comprehensive look into Chicago’s dynamic history through interactive exhibits, photographs, and personal stories that bring the city’s past to life.
Shedd Aquarium: Offers free admission to Illinois residents on all April Tuesdays, with free evening hours from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Advance online registration is recommended to ensure entry. Shedd Aquarium allows visitors to explore the world of aquatic life through exhibits featuring animals from global marine and freshwater environments, highlighting conservation efforts.
Exploring these museums provides a rich, educational experience across diverse fields and histories, accessible to all this month in Chicago.
