Discover Chicago's Free Museum Days in 2026!
Looking for a way to shake off the winter chill and have some fun without breaking the bank? Chicago's iconic museums are opening their doors for free on select days in 2026, exclusively for Illinois residents! It's the perfect opportunity to explore world-class art, history, and science while escaping the cold and discovering something new.
Whether you're marveling at ancient artifacts at The Field Museum, getting hands-on with interactive exhibits at the Chicago History Museum, or soaking in artistic masterpieces at the Art Institute of Chicago, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with no admission fee, it's an easy way to treat yourself and your loved ones to an enriching outing.
The free admission program is designed to bring joy and inspiration during the long winter months, so bundle up and head to Chicago’s cultural gems for a day of exploration and discovery. Don’t let the season keep you cooped up—venture out and make memories with family and friends while celebrating the city’s rich heritage.
Mark your calendar, and be sure to bring your Illinois ID for proof of residency. With so many amazing museums to choose from, there's no better time to rediscover the magic of Chicago’s cultural scene!
Some of our favorites include…
The Art Institute of Chicago
January 5th through February 28th, free every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday (11am to 5pm), and every Thursday (11am to 8pm). The museum is always free for Chicago teens under the age of 18, all children under age 14, Link and WIC cardholders, active-duty military, and current Illinois teachers and homeschool parents.
Chicago History Museum
Free for Illinois residents the week of Monday, January 19th through Friday, January 23rd, and the 27th through the 30th. Admission is always free for active duty military and veterans, active duty Chicago police and firefighters, Illinois teachers, Illinois residents under age 18, and all children under 12.
DuSable Museum of Black History
Free every Wednesday through 2026! Admission is always free for military and first responders, University of Chicago students, Chicago Park District employees, Illinois public school students, and other groups.
The Adler Planetarium
Free most Mondays & Wednesdays January through March, and Wednesdays in April. Admission is always free for Illinois teachers, active duty U.S. military, Chicago park district employees, and other groups.
The Field Museum of Natural History
Free every Wednesday all year! Illinois teachers and active military personnel receive free general admission year-round.
Shedd Aquarium
Free for Illinois residents all day on January 6-8, 13-20, 27-29; February 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26. Free every Tuesday night (5-9pm) from March through June! Admission is always free for Chicago police officers and firefighters, active-duty U.S. military personnel, and educators from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Brookfield Zoo
Free for all guests from January 5 through February 28, with the exception of paid admission days on January 19 and February 16. Free for Illinois teachers on weekdays between Labor Day and Memorial Day.
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