If you’re an art lover on a budget, Chicago is the perfect town for you. The best free art galleries in the city, much less the world, are all readily accessible. Some of the city’s best museums and galleries charge no admission at all, and some even throw in free guided tours and host lectures.
Free art activities in Chicago aren’t just limited to works on display; many free art galleries also host hands-on activities where participants can create their own art while learning from professionals. Check websites ahead of time to make sure you don’t miss workshops, artist talks, or whatever other amazing programming an art space might have. In the summertime, many of these institutions hold programs for kids and teens, helping them develop their appetite for art and creative eye. They’re just a piece of what makes Chicago such a world-class art city, albeit an important part.
At IPMM, we value art and art education that is accessible. These free art spaces embody the mission of making art accessible and easily available, which we think is hugely important in fostering the next generation of artists and creatives.
Here is a list of some of the best free art galleries, museums & experiences in Chicago.
Photo from the Chicago Tribune.
The Art Institute of Chicago – One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, and the crown jewel of Chicago’s art scene, Illinois residents get free admission to this world class institution on the first and second Wednesdays of every month. The museum offers free lectures and tours and the Ryan Education Center lets families make collages and sculptures while learning basic and advanced art techniques. The Modern Wing is the newest addition to the otherwise classical architecture of the Art Institute, and its jaw-dropping airy interior is just as much of a draw as the modern and contemporary art housed inside.
Photo from Artnet.
Hyde Park Art Center – The oldest alternative visual arts center in the city, the Hyde Park Art center is the most extensive collection of modern art produced by local artists, on display free of charge. In addition to artist talks and studio classes, on the second Sunday of each month, the center hosts an event where families can drop in and do hands-on activities with stamps, painting or architecture.
Picture from Enjoy Illinois.
Instagreeter – InstaGreeter turns the city of Chicago into a free, open-air museum. Volunteers lead you on a guided tour of the history and architecture of iconic Chicago neighborhoods. The year-round tours leave from the Chicago Cultural Center every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. No reservations are required, making it a perfect last-minute activity to entertain visitors or to test your city knowledge against other long-time Chicagoans.
Picture from Urban Matter.
Chicago Cultural Center – Sitting on the location of Chicago’s original public library, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts free art exhibits, featuring works by local creators and international talent. Come see the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome or attend a free concert in the building’s Preston Bradley Hall. Besides the art exhibits, you can enjoy the communal space where residents come to read, write, play chess, and talk. Strike up a conversation about the art that you just saw and you may make a new friend.
What makes an innovative and attractive workplace? The possible answers are endless, but there are a few mainstays and relevant traits that...
June 27, 2022It’s one of our favorite times of the year. Every spring, we’re so excited to put together the IPMM Annual Report, gathering...
June 17, 2022The pandemic has left many of us working from home, and with surging cases, new variants, and ever-changing guidelines, remote work doesn’t...
June 13, 2022