The Art Institute of Chicago: A World-Class Art Experience
Explore masterpieces spanning centuries and cultures at Chicago's iconic Art Institute, home to world-renowned Impressionist and modern art collections.
The Art Institute of Chicago, founded in 1879, is one of the world's leading art museums, housing an impressive collection that spans centuries and cultures. From iconic Impressionist paintings to contemporary masterpieces, the museum offers a rich and diverse artistic journey for every visitor.
A brief summary to The Art Institute of Chicago
- 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, Grant Park, Illinois, 60603, US
- +1312-443-3600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
- Take advantage of free admission for Illinois residents on select evenings and days throughout the year.
- Download the Art Institute's app for audio tours, interactive maps, and information about specific artworks.
- Join a free daily guided tour for an overview of the museum's highlights.
- Plan your visit to coincide with special exhibitions for a unique and enriching experience.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Millennium Park, head south along Michigan Avenue towards Adams Street. The Art Institute will be on your right, marked by its iconic bronze lions. The main entrance is at 111 S Michigan Ave.
-
Public Transport
The Art Institute is easily accessible via Chicago's 'L' train system. Take the Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, or Purple Line to the Adams/Wabash station, which is one block west of the museum. The Red or Blue Line to Jackson, is also a short walk. CTA 'L' fare is $2.50 per adult.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off at the museum's Modern Wing entrance on Monroe Street. A short taxi ride from the Loop will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic.
-
Driving
If driving, parking is available at the Millennium Garages, with entrances on Columbus Drive. Art Institute members receive a discount. Parking rates typically range from $10-$15. You can also reserve parking in advance using SpotHero.
Discover more about The Art Institute of Chicago
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Lion
0.1 km
Discover the North Lion in Grant Park, a stunning sculpture symbolizing Chicago's rich artistic heritage and a must-see landmark for all visitors.
Chicago Stock Exchange Arch
0.2 km
Explore the Chicago Stock Exchange Arch, a stunning historical landmark that captures the essence of Chicago's architectural brilliance and vibrant history.
Chapin and Gore Building
0.3 km
Explore the Chapin and Gore Building, a historical gem in Chicago's Loop, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich heritage.
Jay Pritzker Pavilion
0.4 km
Discover the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Chicago's Millennium Park, a stunning amphitheater hosting free concerts and cultural events in a breathtaking setting.
Landmarks Illinois
0.4 km
Explore Illinois's architectural heritage at Landmarks Illinois in Chicago's Loop—your gateway to history and preservation.
Wrigley Square
0.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Wrigley Square, a lush urban park in Chicago's Millennium Park, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature amidst the city.
Sullivan Center
0.5 km
Explore the Sullivan Center, a historic architectural landmark in Chicago, showcasing the city's rich design heritage and stunning Beaux-Arts style.
Millennium Monument
0.5 km
Experience the artistic legacy of Chicago at the stunning Millennium Monument, a landmark in the heart of Millennium Park.
Millennium Park Welcome Center
0.5 km
Explore Chicago's Millennium Park Welcome Center, your essential resource for discovering the city's cultural gems and iconic attractions in a stunning urban setting.
Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain, a historic landmark in Chicago's Grant Park, celebrating art, culture, and stunning water displays.
Lorado Taft Marker of Distinction
0.5 km
Explore the Lorado Taft Marker of Distinction in Chicago's Loop, a tribute to the artistic legacy of one of America's renowned sculptors.
Zero Zero Point
0.5 km
Explore Zero Zero Point, a historical landmark in Chicago where all distances in Illinois begin, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant city life.
Center of Chicago's Grid
0.5 km
Discover the Center of Chicago's Grid, a historic landmark where urban planning meets vibrant culture in the heart of the Windy City.
Muddy Waters Mural
0.5 km
Explore the Muddy Waters Mural in Chicago, a stunning tribute to the blues legend that captures the spirit of the city's vibrant musical heritage.
Second Leiter Building
0.5 km
Explore the Second Leiter Building, a pioneering example of steel-frame architecture in Chicago's historic Loop district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nichols Bridgeway
0.1 km
Experience the beauty of Chicago from the Nichols Bridgeway, a stunning pedestrian bridge connecting Millennium Park and the Art Institute, offering breathtaking skyline views.
Lurie Garden
0.2 km
Discover tranquility at Lurie Garden, a beautiful urban oasis in Millennium Park, featuring diverse flora and stunning views of Chicago's skyline.
100 E Jackson Dr
0.2 km
Explore Grant Park, Chicago's lush urban paradise, featuring gardens, iconic landmarks, and vibrant events in the heart of the city.
Crown Fountain
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Crown Fountain in Millennium Park, a unique blend of art and play perfect for families and tourists in Chicago.
Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours
0.2 km
Experience the beauty and history of Chicago with Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours, the ultimate way to see the Windy City.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
0.2 km
Discover the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, where world-class performances meet stunning architecture in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Loop.
Chicago Loop
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Chicago in the Loop, where world-class attractions, dining, and entertainment await every traveler.
Historic End of Route 66 Sign
0.3 km
Explore the Historic End of Route 66 Sign in Chicago, a nostalgic landmark celebrating the famous highway's legacy and American road trip culture.
Great Lawn
0.3 km
Discover the tranquility of The Great Lawn in Millennium Park, Chicago - a lush green retreat perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor events.
Millennium Park
0.3 km
Explore Millennium Park in Chicago - a vibrant blend of art, nature, and culture in the heart of the city.
Cloud Gate
0.3 km
Discover Cloud Gate in Millennium Park, Chicago: an iconic, reflective sculpture that captures the city's skyline and enhances your travel experience.
Essential places to dine
Hot Woks Cool Sushi
0.3 km
Experience culinary bliss at Hot Woks Cool Sushi in Chicago's Millennium Park – where fresh sushi meets vibrant Asian flavors.
The Gage
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Gage in Chicago's Loop—where great food meets lively atmosphere.
Acanto
0.3 km
Discover Acanto: An upscale Italian restaurant and cocktail bar in Chicago Loop offering authentic cuisine and an extensive wine selection.
Cherry Circle Room
0.3 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Cherry Circle Room in Chicago's Loop, where every dish tells a story of flavor and artistry.
Double Clutch at Millennium Hall
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago at Double Clutch in Millennium Park, where every meal is a celebration of local culinary artistry.
Millennium Hall
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago at Millennium Hall - where culinary creativity meets local charm.
Casa Bonita at Millenium Park
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Bonita in Millennium Park - where vibrant flavors meet cultural ambiance.
Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar at Millennium Hall
0.4 km
Experience the taste of Italy at Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar, where artisanal pizzas meet a vibrant atmosphere in Millennium Park.
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub
0.4 km
Experience Chicago's vibrant dining scene at Exchequer Restaurant & Pub - where delicious pizza meets welcoming pub vibes.
Remington's
0.4 km
Experience Chicago's vibrant culinary scene at Remington's – where American classics meet fine dining in an inviting atmosphere.
The Berghoff Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience the taste of tradition at The Berghoff Restaurant - where authentic German flavors meet American hospitality in Chicago.
Atwood
0.6 km
Discover Atwood in Chicago Loop: A top-notch New American restaurant known for brunch delights and craft cocktails.
The Village
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine blended with American flavors at The Village in Chicago's Loop – a culinary delight you can't miss!
Elephant & Castle
0.7 km
Discover the charm of British pub culture at Elephant & Castle in Chicago's Loop – where great food meets lively ambiance.
Mercat a la Planxa
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Spanish tapas at Mercat a la Planxa in Chicago's South Loop – where tradition meets innovation.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bye Bye Chicago
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Chicago at Bye Bye Chicago, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
The Symphony Store
0.3 km
Explore The Symphony Store in Chicago for unique gifts and musical treasures that celebrate the city's vibrant music culture.
My Chicago!
0.3 km
Discover a unique blend of clothing and souvenirs at My Chicago! – your go-to destination for capturing the spirit of the Windy City.
Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique Chicago souvenirs at the Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop, where local culture meets exquisite gifting.
Feelings Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore Feelings Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique souvenirs and handcrafted gifts that capture the heart of the Windy City.
Buddy
0.5 km
Explore Buddy Gallery in Chicago Loop – a unique boutique and art gallery showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
YoGoe
0.5 km
Explore YoGoe Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique, locally sourced gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Windy City.
After School Matters Gift Shop
0.6 km
Explore the After School Matters Gift Shop: A unique Chicago destination for handcrafted gifts that support local youth programs.
I Love Chicago
0.9 km
Discover unique Chicago gifts and souvenirs at I Love Chicago, the ultimate destination for local treasures and memorabilia.
Kyrgyzstan
1.1 km
Explore the heart of Kyrgyzstan through its unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at this charming shop, perfect for every traveler.
Souvenir City Chicago
1.3 km
Explore Souvenir City Chicago for unique gifts and authentic Chicago memorabilia, perfect for tourists seeking to capture the spirit of the Windy City.
The Shops at North Bridge
1.3 km
Discover a retail haven at The Shops at North Bridge, where shopping meets dining in the heart of Chicago's vibrant atmosphere.
Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at this charming gift shop in Chicago's vibrant Streeterville neighborhood, perfect for every traveler.
Raw Edge Magnificent Mile - Modern Artisan Boutique
1.3 km
Explore Raw Edge Magnificent Mile for unique artisan gifts that capture the essence of Chicago's vibrant culture and creativity.
Lively Gifts
1.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Lively Gifts, a charming gift shop in the heart of Chicago's Near North Side.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Game Room
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chicago at The Game Room, where great drinks and games create unforgettable moments.
Cindy's Rooftop
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite dining at Cindy's Rooftop, a premier bar and restaurant in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
Drawing Room
0.3 km
Discover chic elegance at The Drawing Room, Chicago's premier lounge for American cuisine and signature cocktails.
The Milk Room
0.3 km
Experience the epitome of luxury at The Milk Room, Chicago's exclusive bar offering innovative cocktails in an intimate setting.
2Twenty2 Tavern
0.3 km
Experience Chicago's nightlife at 2Twenty2 Tavern, a lively bar offering craft beers, cocktails, and delicious cuisine in the heart of the Loop.
Adamus Lounge
0.4 km
Adamus Lounge: A Chic American Dining Experience in the Heart of Chicago's Loop.
Panchos Rooftop Cantina
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and stunning skyline views at Panchos Rooftop Cantina in the heart of Chicago.
MBar - Millennium Station
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Chicago at MBar - a modern bar offering unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere in Millennium Station.
Vol. 39
0.8 km
Discover the sophistication of Vol. 39 in Chicago, where exquisite cocktails and an elegant atmosphere await your next visit.
Bar Pendry Chicago
0.8 km
Discover the elegance of Bar Pendry in Chicago Loop, where innovative cocktails meet a stylish atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Emerald Loop Bar & Grill
0.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and Irish pub charm at Emerald Loop Bar & Grill in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
0.9 km
Discover RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar in Chicago Loop for stunning views, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant social atmosphere.
Kasey's Tavern
0.9 km
Discover Kasey's Tavern, a beloved pub in Chicago's South Loop, offering delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a wide selection of drinks.
320 River Bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at 320 River Bar, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Chicago.
Rossi's
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rossi's Bar in Chicago's Near North Side, where great drinks and an inviting atmosphere await.