It’s the perfect time to explore Chicago’s world-class museums without paying admission, and 2026 is packed with free entry days for Illinois residents.
Art Institute of Chicago
Illinois residents can visit the Art Institute for free on weekdays until Feb. 27 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Thursdays.
Tickets must be reserved in advance or obtained at the admissions desk with proof of residency.
Admission is always free for children under 14, Chicago teens under 18 and active-duty military members.
Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium offers free admission to Illinois residents on many dates in the first part of the year, including:
Feb. 23
March 2, 4, 9, 11, 18, 25
April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
The planetarium also offers free general admission to Illinois residents every Wednesday night from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Additionally, the museum is always free for active-duty military personnel, Chicago police and firefighters, Illinois teachers and children under 12.
Tickets must be reserved online in advance, and proof of residency is required.
Free admission tickets do not include sky shows.