The original, core beaux-arts building, designed by Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge, was built for the World's Columbian Exposition. The museum houses more than 300,000 works of art within its 10 curatorial departments. The Art Institute invites you to join the150,000 individuals and families who are members of the museum. Admission Fees Tuesdays are free to all. On other days, visitors pay what they wish but must pay something.
Members are always free.
Children five and under are free. Certain exhibitions require a special timed ticket or the full recommended admission posted at the admissions counters. Unless stated, exhibitions do not require special tickets. The Michigan Avenue check room is accepting parcels and umbrellas only. You may check coats, parcels, and umbrellas in the Columbus Drive lobby.