Free Museums in Chicago on New Year’s Day and Beyond
New Year’s Day Freebies
January 2025 kicks off in Chicago with several famous museums across the city offering free days throughout the month. Two Chicago museums will offer free days on New Year’s Day proper.
Art Institute of Chicago
Illinois residents can visit the Art Institute for free on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays as part of Free Winter Weekdays from January 6 through March 14. Admission is always free for Illinois Pre-K to 12 teachers, teaching artists working in schools, kids under 14, Chicago teens, and active-duty members. Art-lovers can reserve their tickets for free, according to the Art Institute.
Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium allows Illinois residents to visit the museum for free every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., including New Year’s Day. Interested parties must reserve tickets in advance. The museum said admission is always free for Illinois teachers.
Field Museum
Admission for Illinois residents is free on Wednesdays, including New Year’s Day. To visit for free, individuals must provide proof of residency on site. Tickets can be reserved ahead of time here.
Other Free Museums in January
Chicago Botanic Garden
Located in the Chicago suburb of Glencoe, the Chicago Botanic Garden will offer free admission for Illinois residents January 6-12 and on January 20. More information can be found here.
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Although pre-booking tickets is always required, the museum offers free admission every Wednesday.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Illinois residents can visit the Museum of Contemporary Art for free every Tuesday. The museum is always free for visitors under the age of 18. The museum also has a pay-what-you-can policy.
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium offers free admission on the following dates:
- January 7-9
- January 14-21
- January 28-30
For ticket reservations made online, there is a $5 convenience fee. For ticket reservations made over the phone, there is no fee. More information can be found here.
Conclusion
If you’re a resident of Illinois, you can enjoy a range of free museums in Chicago throughout January. Whether you’re interested in art, science, history, or nature, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check the individual museum websites for any requirements or restrictions.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance for free admission?
A: Yes, for some museums, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance to ensure availability.
Q: What forms of proof of residency are accepted?
A: Check with each museum for specific requirements.
Q: Are there any restrictions on free admission?
A: Check with each museum for any restrictions or requirements.
Q: Can I visit multiple museums for free?
A: Check with each museum for their free admission policies.
