Credit: The Field Museum
Chicago's museums are world-class, but all those bones, weather simulators and rides in Chicago's first El train car don't come cheap. But in the philanthropic spirit of our fine city, most museums offer free admission days for Illinois residents. Luckily, September is full of them.
Museum of Science & Industry
When: Sept. 3–5, 9–12, 16–19, 23–26
Where: 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Trains and castles and chicks, oh my! This science mecca is a guaranteed fun time for all ages. While you there, check out their new exhibit, Wired to Wear and learn all about wearable technology (not included in general admission).
Shedd Aquarium
When: Sept. 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23-25, 30
Where: 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Your under-the-sea fantasies can come true! On Illinois Resident Free Days, check out all permanent exhibits, the Underwater Beauty special exhibit, aquatic shows and Stingray Touch without spending a single clam. Insider tip: Reserve your free ticket online.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
When: Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24
Where: 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago
Embrace your creative side at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, and you'll be surprised how many family-friendly activities they offer. Kids 18 and under are always free.
Chicago History Museum
When: Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24
Where: 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago
Learn all about the history of Chicago and more with your family. Illinois resident children 18 and non-Illinois resident children 12 and under are always free.
DuSable Museum of African American History
When: Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24
Where: 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago
Explore African and African American history, culture and art at DuSable Museum. Kids 5 and under are always free.
Field Museum
When: Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25
Where: 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
If it’s been a while since you’ve given Sue your regards, free admission days can help you rectify that. Basic admission is free for Illinois residents, or you can get a Discovery Pass to see a ticketed exhibit or a 3D movie ($14, $10 kids 3-11). It's worth the extra cost if your family wants to see their newest exhibit, Fantastic Bugs Encounter.
Midway Village Museum
When: Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26
Where: 6799 Guilford Rd, Rockford
Certainly worth the drive to Rockford, this history museum offers plenty of exhibits. Your kids will love to see the Dollhouse Museum.
Adler Planetarium
When: Sept. 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27
Where: 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Now you can check out the wonder of the cosmos without an astronomical cost. Illinois residents get free general admission, which includes all exhibits and experiences, except the sky shows, which are available for a discounted price.
Art Institute of Chicago
When: Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26
Where: 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago
Add some art to your evening with free general admission for Illinois residents 5-8 p.m. every Thursday (some special exhibits cost extra). Kids under 14 are always free, as are teens who reside in Chicago. And be sure to stop by the Ryan Education Center for free art-making ops.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
When: Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26
Where: 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago
Every Thursday is a free day at this urban oasis, which is home to the beloved Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. Illinois residents can explore the museum’s family-friendly exhibits on the cheap—although donations are always welcome.
Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center
When: Sept. 10
Where: 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie
Explore their Take a Stand Center, where visitors can interact with Holocaust survivors through a unique virtual experience.
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