One of the best parts about living in Rockford is the close proximity to Chicago, a city brimming with art and culture. For those of us on a tight budget, visiting all the incredible museums in Chicago might seem impossible. However, there are special “free” days for Illinois residents, making it easier to explore these world-class institutions without spending a dime.
In July, the Art Institute of Chicago offers free admission every Thursday evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Chicago History Museum also provides free entry on July 4 and 17. Additionally, the Museum of Contemporary Art is free on Tuesdays. The Adler Planetarium offers free general admission on July 5, 6, and 7. Don’t forget about the Field Museum, which offers free admission on Wednesdays throughout the year, not just in July. Remember to bring your state-issued ID to show proof of residency.
In August, the Museum of Science and Industry will offer free admission to Illinois residents on August 19, 20, 26, and 27. Unfortunately, there are no free days in July for this museum, but the August dates are a great opportunity to visit.
Looking for ways to escape the heat this summer? Visiting one of Chicago’s famous museums is a popular activity among residents and visitors. Here’s a list of upcoming free days for June 2023 at various museums across Chicago:
– Adler Planetarium: Free for Illinois residents on Wednesdays after 4 p.m.
– Art Institute of Chicago: Free for Illinois residents on Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. through Aug. 31.
– The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center: Free admission for Illinois residents on Wednesdays. The museum also offers free admission to all military personnel and first responders.
– Field Museum: Free for Illinois residents on June 6, 13, and 19.
– Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago: Free admission for Illinois residents on Tuesdays. The MCA also offers free admission for Illinois teachers, visitors with disabilities and their caretakers, active-duty military, police and fire department personnel, and veterans.
– Museum of Science and Industry: Free for Illinois residents on June 1, 6, and 7. Additional free days in August and September.
– Chicago Children’s Museum: The last Thursday of the month in September offers free activities for kids and families from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Several Chicago museums and attractions are always free, including the National Museum of Mexican Art, Garfield Park Conservatory, National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture, Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Conservatory, Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, and the Chicago Cultural Center.
Bank of America cardholders can receive free general admission to the following museums during the first full weekend of each month by presenting a Bank of America, Merrill, or Bank of America Private Bank credit or debit card along with a photo ID:
– Adler Planetarium
– Art Institute of Chicago
– Chicago History Museum
– DuSable Museum of African American History
– Illinois Holocaust Museum & Educational Center (Skokie)
– Museum of Contemporary Art
– Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (Sundays only)
– The Morton Arboretum (Lisle)
Rockford, once the second-largest city in Illinois, now ranks at No. 5. Known as “The Forest City” for its woods and numerous parks, Rockford also boasts a lovely riverfront. If anyone’s talking about Rockford, it’s most likely because of classic rockers Cheap Trick, who still live there and continue to perform. The late designer and artist Virgil Abloh also grew up in Rockford.
For those considering a day trip outside of Chicago, Rockford offers several attractions. Anderson Japanese Gardens are beautifully maintained and transport visitors to a serene environment. Klehm Arboretum spans 150 acres of green space, and the Riverfront offers a lovely walk with beautiful houses across the river.
The Starlight Theatre, designed by world-renowned architect Jeanne Gang, is a great community theater. The Coronado Performing Arts Center hosts big names, and the West Side Show Room offers open mics and storytelling. The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Laurent House is a must-see, designed to accommodate the owner’s unique needs as a paraplegic.
Rockford Art Museum is free and features a great gift shop with local artists’ work. The Burpee Museum of Natural History houses Jane, the world’s most complete and best-preserved juvenile T. rex. The Norwegian offers Nordic cuisine, great drinks, and live music. Rockford Roasting Co. brews fantastic coffee with vegan pastries. Beef-a-Roo is a classic with multiple vegetarian options, and Lino’s offers traditional Italian fare with a cozy atmosphere.
Source: Thinkstock, NBC 5 Chicago, 96.7 The Eagle, Axios
