TrueStar Staff 
Explore Chicago’s award-winning museums without breaking the bank. Whether you are into art, history, or science there is something for everyone. Start planning your 2025 adventures with these free museum days.
Free for Illinois residents: Monday, Thursday, and Friday from Jan. 6 – March 14, 2025
Always free for:
Chicago teens under 18
Kids under 14
Illinois educators, Link and WIC cardholders, and active-duty military
Free Wednesdays for Illinois residents: Jan. 8 – March 26, 2025
Always free for: Illinois teachers and active-duty military
Free days for Illinois residents:
Jan. 7 – 9, 14 – 21, 28 – 30
Feb. 4 – 6, 11 – 13, 18 – 20, 25 – 27
Free evenings (5–9 p.m.): Every Monday in March, April, and May
Always free for: EBT cardholders, police officers, firefighters, educators, and active-duty military.
Free evenings for Illinois residents: Every Wednesday from 4 – 10 p.m.
Always free for: Illinois pre-K through 12 teachers
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Free every Wednesday for all visitors
Always free for: Military, first responders, Chicago Park District employees, and Illinois public school student.
Some museums are free year round. These include:
*National Museum of Mexican Art
*National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture
*Museum of Contemporary Photography
*21C Museum Hotel Chicago
*Smart Museum of Art
*Hyde Park Art Center
*Jane Addams Hull-House Museum
By True Star Staff
