"Zoom out. What’s this place all about? The Art Institute is Chicago's grandest: a Beaux Arts gem flanked by two bronze lions that are as much a symbol of the city as the Willis Tower. The massive Renzo Piano-designed Modern Wing, opened in this century, significantly expanded its galleries and added a rooftop restaurant that feels like a find—even if it's hiding in plain sight. In short, if you're coming to Chicago for culture, you're hitting the Art Institute first. What will we find in the permanent collection? The collections at the Art Institute are myriad and rich, from the blockbuster Impressionist portfolio to the quirky Thorne Miniature Rooms, in which global architecture from the 13th to the 20th century are captured in dollhouse proportions. There's Medieval armory, modern furniture, a vast Asian collection, and photography that spans the history of the medium. It's particularly strong in mid-20th-century works, thanks to Georgia O'Keeffe's donation of the Alfred Stieglitz Collection. Comprehensive is a good word for what's within these walls. And how about the temporary exhibits? The Art Institute has a robust schedule of rotating exhibits ranging from blockbusters—often featuring the Impressionists—to intriguing shows of lesser-known artists. Often the temporary exhibits are what brings people to the museum, but there is plenty to see in the permanent collection. What did you make of the crowd? Patrons of the Art Institute are a nicely mixed bunch, ranging from high school art students sketching in the galleries and well-informed collectors to the shorts-and-sandals set clicking a must-see off their list. But even as swarms cluster around the pointillist masterpiece, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat, there's space enough that you won't feel crunched. On the practical tip, how were the facilities? Benches center most of the larger galleries and are often occupied by the elderly or the folks who got dragged here against their will. The Art Institute is more horizontal than vertical, so plenty of walking—but not climbing—is required. Any guided tours worth trying? The museum has its own free app that is useful in looking up info on works while you are looking at them. It also has guided audio tours that shake up the standard itineraries with music and behind-the-scenes stories. Gift shop: What will we find? There are two: One close to the main entrance that is generously sized, with a great selection of art books, and then a bunch of cheap and cheerful souvenirs and some expensive arty jewelry. The other, similarly outfitted, is near the modern wing entrance. Don't miss them. Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere? For a restaurant that matches the collection, head to Terzo Piano on the top level (the name means "third floor" in Italian) of the Modern Wing. Chef Tony Mantuano of Spiaggia oversees the menu, which balances sustenance and style. Glass walls wrap the streamlined room and frame spectacular panoramas of the city and Millennium Park next door. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged? Walk past the lions (pause for an Insta-snap, of course) and back toward the Modern Wing on the second floor to take in the Impressionist collection. Head back toward the main entrance and drop a level to see the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which are quirky and astonishing at the same time." - Elaine Glusac
