Top Culture in Illinois

Check the museum's website for free admission days! I saved a bunch by visiting on one of those days – totally worth it.

Make sure to wear comfy shoes. This place is huge and I regretted wearing my stylish sneakers after a few hours of walking!

Grab a map when you enter and mark the things you wanna see first. I didn't do this and got super sidetracked. It’ll help save time wandering around.

I suggest checking out the special exhibits first when you enter. They tend to get busier later in the day. I missed out on a cool one the later I waited.

If you’re interested in the U-505 submarine, make sure to reserve a ticket in advance. I waited too long and ended up missing that exhibit, which was a bummer!!!

Bring a friend or two to help take photos! I went alone and had to ask randoms who weren't all that great at photography. A little squad makes all the difference!

I found that visiting in late spring or early fall was ideal; the weather was pleasant and less humid, making it more enjoyable to walk around.

If you're planning to take pictures, I recommend checking the fountain's schedule online for the best times when it’s lit up or during the water shows. They are stunning!

keep an eye on the time for the fountain's evening light shows. they usually start around 8 pm and it’s a perfect way to wrap up your day!

Don't forget to stroll around the park. The gardens are beautiful and there are some great spots to relax and appreciate the view, especially if you find a bench close to the fountain.

I suggest grabbing lunch nearby before heading in. The food options are decent around the area, and it's a great way to refuel before diving into the art and architecture. Don't skip the local spots!

I recommend visiting on a weekday. It was less crowded, and I got to enjoy the beautiful architecture without the hustle and bustle of a weekend. Plus, it's way easier to snap those perfect pics!

My advice is to check out the free programs and events they offer. I stumbled upon a cool art exhibit while I was there, and it was a nice surprise that didn't cost me a thing!

I recommend using the app for guided exploration – it helped us discover hidden gems throughout the museum and made it more interactive for the kids!

I think visiting on a Wednesday or Thursday can save you from long weekend lines. We went midweek and practically walked right in!

I recommend investing in a city pass if you're planning to visit a bunch of attractions. It can save you quite a bit of money, and I wish I'd done that before my trip. It would’ve helped me see more!

I found that checking out the architecture on a weekday is much nicer. Weekends can get super crowded. Aim for a Monday or Tuesday around 10 AM for a more relaxed experience.