Top Culture Spots in Illinois

If you're a fan of Impressionist art, make sure to head straight to that section. I kinda wandered around and missed some key pieces at first!

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!

Bring snacks! The museum food can be a bit pricey and not that great. I packed some granola bars and it helped me save a bunch of cash.

Definitely go on a weekday if you can! I went on a Saturday and it was super crowded. My advice is to visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday for a more chill experience.

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.

I recommend downloading the museum's app before you go. It has maps and audio guides, so you don't get lost or miss out on highlights while wandering around.

If you're tight on cash, check out Target's free museum days! They save you a bundle if you're visiting during off-peak times. I missed it and ended up splurging on tickets.

Check out the café for lunch. They have great sandwiches and a nice atmosphere, but it gets super busy around noon. I found it easier to eat around 2 pm.

My advice is to check out the lunch spots nearby. The museum’s cafe can get pricy, but there are some cute cafes just a short walk away!

I suggest wearing comfortable shoes, because you’ll be walking a ton. I ended up with sore feet by the end of the day and wished I’d paid more attention to my footwear!

If you're planning to take photos, I suggest going on a cloudy day. The reflection on Cloud Gate is so much cooler, and you won't have to worry about harsh sunlight ruining your pics.

Definitely try to visit early in the morning, like around 8 AM. The crowds are smaller, and you can grab that perfect insta shot without people in the background!

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 suggest visiting the fountain early in the morning, around 8 AM, to avoid crowds and grab some amazing photos without people in the background. It's much more peaceful then.

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!

If you're a foodie like me, grab a bite nearby before the show. There's tons of awesome cafes around; I went to Lou Malnati’s for some deep dish pizza, yum!

I think wearing layers is key! The theater can be a bit chilly inside, but it’s hot outside, so dress smart to be comfy throughout your visit.

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 suggest exploring the hidden alleys and courtyards off Michigan Ave for some cool photo ops and a quieter vibe. I stumbled upon a beautiful courtyard cafe that wasn't in the guidebooks!

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.