The Art Institute of Chicago (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Art Institute of Chicago?
What makes it 89% Kids-Friendly: Children enter free, craft in the Ryan Learning Center, follow JourneyMaker scavenger hunts, and borrow strollers, but strict no-touch rules require close adult supervision.
Positives:
- Free kids’ admission: Children under 14 enter free every day.
- Hands-on learning: Ryan Learning Center offers crafts and art materials.
- Stroller-friendly: Strollers are allowed in all galleries and available to borrow.
Challenges:
- Museum size: Walking through large galleries may tire younger children.
- Crowds: Weekends and holidays can be busy with longer café lines.
- Quiet zones: Some galleries require low voices, which may feel restrictive.
What is The Art Institute of Chicago?
- A landmark Chicago art museum blending a 19th-century Beaux-Arts building with a modern wing by Renzo Piano
- Home to nearly 300,000 works spanning ancient to contemporary art, including iconic Impressionist paintings and global artifacts
- An institution with dedicated conservation laboratories, research archives, and a specialized art library
What is so special about The Art Institute of Chicago for with kids?
- Kids under 14 enter free every day.
- Hands-on art activities in the Ryan Learning Center.
- Custom digital family tours with JourneyMaker.
- Thorne Miniature Rooms captivate young imaginations.
- Stroller-friendly galleries and snack breaks keep kids happy.
Recommended visit duration: 3-5 hours
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for key galleries, the Ryan Learning Center, snacks, and breaks without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Art Institute of Chicago
Ryan Learning Center:
Explore art-making stations and crafts in the Modern Wing.
Tip: Visit between 11 am–3 pm to join drop-in projects guided by educators.
JourneyMaker Family Tour:
Create a story-driven tour using iPads or your phone.
Tip: Pick up the free tour at the Family Desk or download the app before you go.
Thorne Miniature Rooms:
See tiny, detailed historical interiors that fascinate kids.
Tip: Look for hidden objects and ask kids to spot favorite details.
Gallery Games:
Play I Spy or scavenger hunts in the galleries.
Tip: Grab a free Family Visit self-guided sheet on your phone at the entrance.
Family Café Break:
Refuel with kid-friendly snacks and drinks.
Tip: Try the café in the Modern Wing for seating and quick service.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Art Institute of Chicago
- Arrive early: Get here at opening to avoid lines and secure stroller rental.
- Use family tours: Download the app or use gallery iPads for a kid-focused route.
- Take breaks: Schedule snack stops at family-friendly cafés to keep energy up.
- Check event calendar: Look online for free drop-in family programs on your visit day.
Reviews of The Art Institute of Chicago
Maria G (Maria MG)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Art Institute of Chicago — where art, history, and time meet The Art Institute of Chicago is an extraordinary museum — one of those rare places where art, history, and human emotion come together seamlessly. During our visit, we saw iconic works by Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Edvard Munch, standing in front of paintings you’ve seen in books all your life and finally experiencing...
Vincent Lam
The art museum in Chicago impressed me with tons of masterpieces. I thought I would not spend much time here since I was not a fan of art. However, I really enjoyed seeing and walking around inside. Many paintings were collected in my textbooks. I could not describe my feelings when standing in front of these paintings where I could see each painting dots of color. Everything was attractive in bea...
Paige
Fantastic selection of artwork! We especially loved the American landscape art, the Japanese wood block prints, and the extensive and mesmerizing collection of impressionist paintings. Trickiest parts of our visit were reading the particularly small font plaques next to the artwork and navigating the hodgepodge of buildings and corridors that don’t all connect on the same floors. Really glad we s...
Andrew Baffes
The Art Institute of Chicago is a national treasure, and a must-see for visitors to our great city. AIC holds some of the world's finest examples of paintings, sculptures and architecture, and so much so that it's too much to list in a review. You could honestly take two full days to go through the museum and not see all of it. I especially enjoy the Hudson River School paintings, along with th...
Dmitri Slousch
I recently visited The Art Institute of Chicago and was thoroughly impressed by the depth and quality of its collections. The museum offers an exceptional experience from the moment you enter, with a well-organized layout and beautifully curated galleries. The Impressionist collection is truly outstanding, featuring iconic works presented in a way that allows you to appreciate both their artistic...
When is the best time to visit The Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago, United States)?
Weekday mornings and winter months are less crowded. The museum is climate-controlled year-round.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2×$25) | USD 50 |
| Café snacks and drinks | USD 20 |
| Art kit from museum shop | USD 15 |
| Total Estimated | USD 85 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The Art Institute of Chicago
Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
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About The Art Institute of Chicago
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 312-443-3600Explore Popular Things to Do
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