Created in 1879, this world renown art museum in the heart of Chicago is known for embracing the individual experience of art, and maybe for allowing it’s over 1.5 million annual guests each their own personal ‘Ferris Bueller moment’. The Art Institute of Chicago strives to collect, observe, and interpret works of art and encourages personal appreciation of said art. This art institution is located just one block away from Lake Michigan, anchoring the east side of downtown with it’s massive 8 building, 1 million square foot complex. Holding some of the greatest irreplaceable works to mankind, this museum is known as one of the country’s largest art museums, a must see for all ages, locals and international tourists alike. It is also known as one of the finest research libraries for art and architecture in the country!
Once here your group will have the dizzying task of deciding which of the 300,000 permanent pieces within the 11 different departments you’d like to see. there are also 30 special exhibits, hundreds of gallery talks, lectures, performances, and events annually throughout the museum. You’ll see over 5,000 years of creativity within this state of the art conservation facility (ensuring the future of art) from the world renowned French impressionist collection to American favorites like American Gothic. Find ancient treasures from across globe to modern works from Dali, Picasso, and Matisse. Choose from professionally guided tours, lectures, or personal strolling as you visit all the collections, from African textiles to Armor and Arms. Before you go grab a bite to eat at any of their astoundingly artful cafe’s, offering food from gourmet to casual pick me ups.
