Chicago’s cultural institutions — such as museums — have been closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. That’s all about to change soon.
State of Illinois medical officials have determined Chicago has moved to a Tier 2 COVID mitigation status, which allows museums to reopen at limited capacity. In response, Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium announced plans for reopening, and plans for reopening the Field Museum quickly followed.
Let’s take a look at when Chicago’s numerous museums will reopen.
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium will reopen for members Wednesday, January 27, to Friday, January 29. Admission for the general public will begin Saturday, January 30.
Information about hours and tickets can be found here.
Field Museum
The Field Museum has reopened. In a fun twist, the museum is offering a free admission day on Thursday, January 28. Tickets to enter the museum on that day are only available on-site, and they cannot be reserved in advance.
Information about the museum’s hours of operation and tickets can be found here.
Art Institute Of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago will reopen on February 11, 2021. It will be open Thursday through Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The first hour each day will be reserved for members.
Importantly, the Monet and Chicago and Bisa Butler: Portraits exhibits have been extended beyond their original closing dates. The Monet and Chicago exhibit will also have a “virtual” line to limit capacity and enforce social distancing.
Ticket information can be found here.
Illinois Holocaust Museum And Education Center
The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center will reopen on Wednesday, February 3, with a free-admission day. What’s more, admission will be free on all Wednesdays in February and March.
Ticket information and hours of operation can be found here.
Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum will reopen on March 4, with free admission that day. Senior Vice President John Russick said in a statement that the City of Chicago was incorporated on March 4, 1837, so this is a fitting way to celebrate Chicago’s birthday.
Timed-entry tickets will be available on-site. However, it is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to limit person-to-person transactions.
Ticket information and hours of operation can be found here.
Museum Of Contemporary Art
Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art plans to reopen on March 2. Be sure to check the museum’s website for updates as that date approaches.
Museum Of Science And Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry remains closed, and no information is available about plans to reopen. Be sure to check the museum’s website for updates.
Know Before You Go
Keep in mind that the museums will limit capacity to 25 percent occupancy and may use timed-entry tickets or other practices to achieve that goal. Other practices, such as requiring masks and social distancing, will also be followed. Be sure to check with the museum in advance for information about its safety practices.
Related articles:
