Chicago Local Customs - Culture with Virtual Tourist

Chicago Children's Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

700 East Grand Avenue

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Chicago Children's Museum on Navy Pier offers hands-on exhibits for children, focusing on education and fun through interactive play.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

General admission: $20; Free for children 15 and under on the first Sunday of each month and Thursdays from 5 PM to 8 PM.

McCormick Place

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Business Center

2301 S Lake Shore Dr (btwn Burnham Harbor Dr. & Access Rd.)

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McCormick Place is the largest convention center in the U.S., featuring extensive exhibition space and a high-rise hotel, located in Chicago.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours depending on events.

Free entry for general access; specific events may require tickets.

John J. Glessner House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

1800 S Prairie Ave

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Glessner House Museum, an architectural treasure in Chicago, showcases 19th-century design and offers insight into the Glessner family's history.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Paid. General admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students/seniors. Children under 12 are free.

Loyola University Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

820 N Michigan Ave (btw Chicago Ave & Pearson St)

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Loyola University Museum of Art in Chicago features a medieval, Renaissance, and baroque collection, emphasizing the Catholic tradition within a prestigious university setting.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Charnley-Persky House Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1365 N Astor St (Schiller)

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Charnley-Persky House Museum in Chicago, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1892, showcases an architectural shift towards modernism and houses the Society of Architectural Historians.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free on Wednesdays. Saturday tours require a paid ticket, available on the website.

Bronzeville Children's Museum

We-Sa 10:00-14:00

Museum

9301 S Stony Island Ave

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Bronzeville Children's Museum in Chicago is an African American children's museum offering interactive exhibits that celebrate culture and history.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Educational programs may have associated costs.

Aragon Entertainment Center

Varies by event

Stadium

1106 W Lawrence Ave (at Winthrop Ave)

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Aragon Ballroom, a historic venue in Chicago, features a unique architecture and hosts various concerts and events, appealing to music lovers and event-goers alike.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours, depending on the event.

Paid. Prices vary by event.

Illinois Institute of Technology

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

3201 S State St

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Illinois Institute of Technology, founded in 1890, is a private research university in Chicago, known for its modernist architecture and extensive programs in technology and design.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some campus tours may require a paid ticket.

Museum of Science and Industry

9:30-16:00; Nov 24, Dec 25 off; Jul-Aug,Sep 1-5 9:30-17:30; 2016: Jul 20, Jul 22 9:30-16:00; 2016 Sep 25 11:00-16:00; 2016 Oct 1 9:30-15:00; 2016: Nov 19-20, Nov 25-27, Dec 3-4, Dec 10-11, Dec 17-23, Dec 26-30 9:30-17:30

Museum

5700 S Lake Shore Dr (at 57th Dr)

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Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago showcases interactive exhibits, including a WWII German U-boat and a coal mine, in a historic 1893 building.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Adult: $18, Child: $14. Additional costs for special tours.

Cloud Gate

Open 24 hours

Monument

N Michigan Ave (btwn Randolph St & Monroe Dr)

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Cloud Gate is a massive, mirror-like sculpture in Chicago’s Millennium Park, created by artist Anish Kapoor. Its reflective surfaces create unique urban views.

Duration: Less than 1 hour.

Free.

Buckingham Fountain

9:00 AM–11:00 PM

Fountain

301 S Columbus Dr (btwn Jackson Dr & Balbo Dr)

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Buckingham Memorial Fountain in Chicago is one of the largest fountains in the world, showcasing Beaux-Arts design and offering spectacular light and water shows.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Chicago Cultural Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

78 E Washington St

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Chicago Cultural Center, founded in 1897, is the first free municipal cultural center in the U.S., featuring art exhibits, performances, and two stunning stained-glass domes.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Oriental Institute Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

155 E 58th St Southeast corner of 58th St and University Ave

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The Oriental Institute Museum in Chicago showcases over 350,000 artifacts from ancient Middle Eastern civilizations, offering a unique glimpse into history.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Suggested donations accepted.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

5757 S Woodlawn Ave

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Robie House in Chicago, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1910, represents significant Prairie style architecture and offers guided public tours.

Duration: 1 hour.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for students and seniors. Children under 12 are free.

Chicago History Museum

Tu-Sa 09:45-16:30; Su 11:45-17:00; Dec 24,31, 09:30-14:30, Jul 04 12:00-16:30; Jan 01,Dec 24 off

Museum

1601 N Clark St (at North Ave)

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Chicago Historical Society showcases the city's history through exhibitions featuring artifacts, newsreels, and dioramas from significant events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Mo-Fr 09:00-17:00; Sa-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

2430 N Cannon Dr (at Fullerton Pkwy)

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The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Chicago features over 15 exhibits on local wildlife, butterfly haven, and real conservation efforts. It’s ideal for families.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $9; Children (3-12): $7; Members: Free.

Smart Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

5550 S Greenwood Ave The University of Chicago

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The Smart Museum of Art in Chicago houses over 15,000 objects, showcasing diverse global art. Admission is free and the museum encourages exploration through artistic practice.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

DuSable Museum of African American History

We-Su 11:00-16:00

Museum

740 E 56th Pl (S Cottage Grove Ave)

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DU Sable Museum in Chicago is dedicated to African-American art, history, and culture, showcasing significant exhibits from slavery to the Civil Rights movement.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Hull House

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

800 S Halsted St (at UIC)

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Jane Addams Hull-House Museum in Chicago preserves the legacy of Nobel laureate Jane Addams, showcasing a historic settlement house and cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Swedish American Museum

Mo-Fr 10:00-16:00; Sa-Su 11:00-16:00

Museum

5211 North Clark Street

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Swedish American Museum in Chicago celebrates Swedish-American heritage through exhibits and cultural programs, focusing on the lives of early settlers.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for special exhibitions.

Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Museum

220 E Chicago Ave (at Mies van der Rohe Way)

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Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago displays post-World War II art, featuring exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and performances from renowned artists.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $15. Students & Seniors: $8. Illinois residents free on Tuesdays.

Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture

Mo-Sa 10:00-16:00; Su 12:00-16:00; Dec 24-25 off; Jan 01 off; easter Su off

Museum

6500 S Pulaski Rd (65 St. & S. Pulaski Rd..)

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Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian in Chicago highlights Lithuanian history and culture, featuring the largest research center outside Lithuania.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Ukrainian National Museum

Th-Su 11:00-16:00

Museum

2249 W Superior St

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The Ukrainian National Museum in Chicago showcases 1000 years of Ukrainian culture through artifacts and archives, celebrating a rich heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Polish Museum of America

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

984 N Milwaukee Ave (Milwaukee/Augusta)

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The Polish Museum of America in Chicago features a vast collection of Polish artifacts and archives, showcasing rich cultural heritage since its founding in 1935.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Henry B. Clarke House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

1827 S Indiana Ave

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Clarke House Museum, built in 1836, is Chicago's oldest surviving building, showcasing Greek Revival architecture and early Chicago history.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Guided tours may be available for a fee.

Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art

We-Su 12:00-16:00

Museum

2320 West Chicago Avenue

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The Ukrainian Institute of Art in Chicago showcases vibrant Ukrainian art through rotating exhibitions and permanent collections in a cultural hub.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

University of Illinois at Chicago

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

1200 West Harrison Street

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University of Illinois Chicago is a prominent public research university located in the Near West Side area of Chicago, with over 33,000 students enrolled across 16 colleges.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some events and special programs may require tickets.

Chicago Symphony Center

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

220 S Michigan Ave (btwn Adams & Jackson)

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Symphony Center in Chicago is the home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, offering world-class acoustics and architectural beauty in an iconic concert hall.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Prices vary by performance; check the official website for details. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Riverside Historical Museum

Sa 10:00-14:00

Museum

27 Riverside Rd (Burlington)

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Riverside Museum in Chicago features extensive exhibits on transportation history, offering interactive experiences and family-friendly activities.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require admission fees.

Leather Archives and Museum

12:00 PM–5:00 PM

Museum

6418 N Greenview Ave (at W Devon Ave)

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Leather Archives and Museum in Chicago explores leather, fetish, and S&M subcultures with unique exhibits and historical displays. Admission is free on Thursdays.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free on Thursdays. Other days: $10 for adults, $8 if tickets are purchased online in advance.

Chicago State University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

9500 S King Dr

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Chicago State University, founded in 1867, offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields and emphasizes diversity in its student population.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may incur a fee.

Chicago Water Tower

Mo-Fr 10:00-19:00; Sa,Su 10:00-17:00

Gallery

803 N Michigan Ave

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City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower showcases local art and history in a 19th-century castlelike landmark that survived the Great Chicago Fire.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Irish American Heritage Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4626 N Knox Ave

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The Irish American Heritage Center in Chicago showcases Irish culture with art exhibits, history, and performance spaces, promoting community engagement and education.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Certain special events may require a paid ticket.

Lincoln Hall

5:00 PM–12:00 AM

Event hall

2424 N Lincoln Ave (btwn W Montana St & W Fullerton Ave)

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Lincoln Hall in Chicago hosts hyped indie bands. Enjoy excellent sound and a kitchen serving food until late. A unique former movie theater experience.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Varies by event, generally between $15 and $30.

Northeastern Illinois University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

5500 N Saint Louis Ave (btwn Bryn Mawr Ave & Foster Ave)

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Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) in Chicago offers education to approximately 9,000 students. It is recognized as a Hispanic Serving Institution.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Enrollment is required for courses.

The Vic Theatre

5:00 PM–12:00 AM

Event hall

3145 N Sheffield Ave (btwn W Fletcher St & W Belmont Ave)

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The Vic Theatre is a renowned music venue in Chicago, hosting a variety of performances in an intimate setting with excellent acoustics.

Duration: 2-3 hours, depending on the event.

Varies by event. General admission usually ranges from $25 to $75.

The Field Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1400 S Lake Shore Dr (at McFetridge Dr)

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Field Museum in Chicago features nearly 40 million specimens including SUE, the world’s most complete Tyrannosaurus rex. Explore diverse exhibits from ancient Egypt to gemstones.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

General admission: $27 adults, $24 seniors, $22 children (ages 3-11). Free for children under 3. Special exhibitions may incur extra fees.

National Museum of Mexican Art

Tu-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

1852 W 19th St

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The National Museum of Mexican Art showcases a vast collection of Mexican and Latino art and culture, including indigenous textiles and important historical artifacts, in Chicago.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Museum of Holography-Chicago

11:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

1134 W Washington Blvd

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Museum of Holography-Chicago showcases cutting-edge 3D laser photographs and holographic art, offering a unique glimpse into visual technology and creativity.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12, and free for children under 6.

Michelle's Ballroom

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Event hall

2800 W Belmont Ave (California)

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Michelle's Ballroom in Chicago offers an elegant venue for various events, featuring modern amenities and beautiful decor in a prime location.

Duration: Variable based on event length.

Paid. Pricing varies based on the event type and duration.

University of Chicago

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

5801 South Ellis Avenue

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Ucan University of Chicago, a prestigious research university founded in 1890, is located in Hyde Park, renowned for its Neo-Gothic architecture and vibrant academic community.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank

Mo-Fr 08:30-17:00

Museum

230 S La Salle St (at W Jackson Blvd)

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The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank in Chicago offers interactive exhibits on currency, including a million-dollar display and a counterfeit gallery.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Admission includes access to all exhibits and activities.

DuSable Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

350 N Michigan Ave (at E Wacker Dr)

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DuSable Bridge in Chicago is a historic drawbridge honoring the city's founder, featuring intricate sculptures and offering scenic vistas of the city.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No admission fee required to access the bridge.

Crown Fountain

Mo-Su 06:00-23:00

Fountain

Michigan Ave (btwn S Michigan Ave and Boeing Gallery S)

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Crown Fountain is a large public sculpture in Chicago's Millennium Park, featuring two 50-ft LED towers that display local faces and water features.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free to access.

Fourth Presbyterian Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

126 E Chestnut St at North Michigan Avenue

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Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago is one of the largest Presbyterian congregations, located near the Magnificent Mile and facing the John Hancock Center.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special events and programs.

The Moody Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1635 N La Salle Dr

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The Moody Church, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a vibrant community offering rich history, distinctive architecture, and engaging spiritual services.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require paid tickets.

Rockefeller Memorial Chapel

Open during scheduled events.

Church

5850 S Woodlawn Ave

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Rockefeller Memorial Chapel in Chicago serves as a spiritual center and performance venue, hosting diverse ceremonies and cultural events for the community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations may be requested for carillon and tower tours ($5 donation recommended).

Saint John Cantius Roman Catholic Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

825 N Carpenter St

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Saint John Cantius Roman Catholic Church in Chicago showcases remarkable baroque architecture and rich cultural heritage, facilitating spiritual encounters through art and liturgy.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

700 W Adams St At intersection with S Desplaines St

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Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church, founded in 1852 in Chicago, combines rich history with vibrant community events like the World’s Largest Block Party.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

3121 W Jackson Blvd

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Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica in Chicago is a historic Catholic church known for its unique architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.