The Art Institute of Chicago
Museum · Grant Park
111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Highlights
Impressionist art, Thorne Miniature Rooms, and architecture
Impressionist art, Thorne Miniature Rooms, and architecture
"Two permanent collections that often get overlooked. The Thorne Miniature Rooms, located in the lower level just after entry, feature 68 rooms with impeccable detail and scale. From English Great Halls to California Living Rooms, it is easy to get lost in the intricacies of these unbelievable interiors. The Chicago Stock Exchange is equally as impressive. When the original Stock Exchange was demolished in 1972, sections of elaborate stenciled decorations, molded plaster capitals, and art glass were preserved from the Trading Room. Using these fragments, the Art Institute was able to reconstruct the Trading Room in its Rubloff Building between 1976 and 1977. Two definite must sees." - IA Collaborative
"One of the oldest and most respected art museums in the U.S., housing a massive, world-class collection and conveniently located in Grant Park near other Chicago landmarks like Crown Fountain and Cloud Gate ('The Bean')." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A world-class museum housing a vast collection of artworks across eras and cultures, making it a must-see for art lovers visiting the city." - Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman is a New York-based writer and editor who specializes in travel, lifestyle, food, and shopping content. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A world-class art museum that becomes far more pleasant to explore in winter when smaller crowds mean easier access to major galleries and exhibitions." - Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman is a New York-based writer and editor who specializes in travel, lifestyle, food, and shopping content. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"If you're coming to Chicago for culture, you're hitting the Art Institute first. It is the city's grandest museum, a Beaux Arts gem flanked by two bronze lions that are as much a symbol of the city as the Willis Tower and it has as fine an impressionist collection as you'll find anywhere. While you're there, plan to take a stroll through Millennium Park next door." - Nicole Schnitzler
