On rainy or crappy weather days, by a fast pass online. The extra $10 is worth not standing in the long visitors line. And you must see Edward Hopper's 'Nighthawks' - it is timeless
The Asian Collection spans nearly five millennia of Asian expression. It includes 35,000 objects of great archaeological and artistic significance. Check out the seated Buddha!
The free map of the museum has a handy "what to do if you only have an hour" tour on the back page. If you're speedy, don't miss the trading room, the miniatures, and the Impressionism rooms as well.
The lovely north garden is a perfect place to carry in your morning coffee & sit & read the paper on the weekend. At least that's where I can be found until winter comes.
The art institute has one of the largest collections of Monet in the world; go to the impressionist exhibit.Teachers in Chicago get in for free.Splurge on the audio tours.
The collection encompasses more than 5,000 years of human expression from around the world & more than 260,000 pieces. The Modern Wing was opened in 2009 & is the largest expansion in their history.
Every Thursday night, the museum is free for Illinois residents and open until 8 p.m. All you have to do is show up, wander around and gaze at the art. Read more
If you are in a hurry and only have an hour or so to kill, pick up the Visitor Guide! It has twelve must-see pieces of art already selected with a handy map to show you where they're located.
If you don't have a lot of time, or aren't that into art, the museum map describes how to hit all of the don't-miss famous pieces in an hour! Also, get there before noon or you'll be waiting an hour!
The art institute just opened its new contemporaryart collection, which was donated from private collectors. Plan your next visit and check it out. Read more
If you're traveling on a budget: entrance fee is only 10$ for the last hour - but beware that's not nearly enough time to see all the amazing collections & paintings the museum has to offer!
I love the New Modern Art Wing! The set-up is spectacular. I love the mini Picasso statue that was presented to Mayor Daley before the statue was created for Chicago. Read more
The Art Institute's Design Objects and Furnituregallery is the perfect place to find beautiful and functional glass objects by leading gaffers. You can find museum-quality work for your own home.
Do a collections highlights tour...definitely worth it. Plus don't try and check in food at the cloak room! Made the mistake of going to a farmer's market on the way to the museum.
Thought I was already back in Beijing when I saw this. The Impressionist Art and Fashion exhibition was brilliant. A great way to spend my last day in Chicago.
This museum has one of the most notable collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Housed in an impressive Beaux-Arts building, the collection is world-renowned.
The architecture is as impressing as the artwork portrayed here. Renzo Piano excells himself in this project. Use the long bridge coming from the park it's quite a sight.