Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Chicago
Attraction Overview
Best time tuesday
21:00
Today's weather
2025-12-23
3°C
Cloudy
Visitors rave about the MCA's diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions, often highlighting impactful installations and interactive displays. The museum's modern design, welcoming staff, and thoughtfully curated collection also receive high praise, making it a must-see Chicago destination for art lovers. Many appreciate the added bonus of free admission for Illinois residents on Tuesday evenings.
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The Hidden Gems of the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago
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🛡️
Be aware of your surroundings, especially when entering and exiting the museum. Chicago, like any large city, can have areas with higher crime rates, so remain vigilant.
💡
Check the MCA's website for free admission days or evenings to save on ticket costs.
💡
Don't miss the views of Lake Michigan from the MCA's outdoor spaces.
About
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is a vibrant hub for contemporary art. It showcases groundbreaking exhibitions of visual art, performance, and design. Experience the art and ideas of our time.
Recommended visit: 3 hours
Nearby
🛡️
Be aware of your surroundings, especially when entering and exiting the museum. Chicago, like any large city, can have areas with higher crime rates, so remain vigilant.
💡
Check the MCA's website for free admission days or evenings to save on ticket costs.
💡
Don't miss the views of Lake Michigan from the MCA's outdoor spaces.
View on Map
The Hidden Gems of the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago
youtube
Tap to view videos →
About
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is a vibrant hub for contemporary art. It showcases groundbreaking exhibitions of visual art, performance, and design. Experience the art and ideas of our time.
Recommended visit: 3 hours
Nearby
Best times to visit Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Tuesday's crowd patterns and optimal visit windows.
Best Time Tuesday
21:00
Experience the museum's contemporary art collection during its closing hours on Tuesdays, enjoying a quieter atmosphere as the day winds down.
10:00 - 21:00
Hourly Crowd Levels
Tuesday's expected crowd levels throughout the day
Timezone: America/Chicago
Closes at 21:00 - Graph shows crowd levels until closing time
Low (0-25%)
Moderate (26-50%)
Busy (51-75%)
Very Busy (76-100%)
What travelers say
Recent reviews and on-the-ground experiences.
Jess Wood
1 weeks ago· Google
5.0
"
I loved the (visiting) Yoko Ono exhibit, it was very interactive. But my favorite part of the museum today was the Firelei Báez exhibit. Positively stunning! Also, we chose to go on a Tuesday night mainly for convenience because it’s the only evening they are open late. And guess what? Illinois residents receive free admission after 5pm every Tuesday! I had no idea!
"
Mary Espinoza
2 weeks ago· Google
5.0
"
Many exhibitions. Beautifully designed. Excellent gift shop. We also saw the Yomo Ono exhibit which details many facets of her life as an artist. Very good!
"
Incision Incision
3 months ago· Google
5.0
"
It is a really great place to spend a day and enjoy something different. The building itself look modern and open, with big bright spaces that make it easy to walk and explore. Exhibitions change often and always bring something new, from big bold installations to smaller art pieces that make you stop and think. Staff is friendly and ready to help if you need directions or info, and everything inside feels clean and well cared for. It is a perfect spot to get inspired and see how modern art can surprise you. The vibe is relaxed and creative, you can just wander slowly and take it all in. The little café and gift shop are also nice places to end your visit. Every time I go I leave with new thoughts and want to come back again.
"
Ali E
3 months ago· Google
3.0
"
This might be one of the smallest art museums we've ever visited, but it's clear they are very selective with their pieces. The collection is fantastic, and every artwork feels thoughtfully chosen. It's a great spot to see high-quality art in a more intimate setting.
"
Mahad Hussein
4 months ago· Google
5.0
"
If you visit Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art is definitely worth a stop. It’s a great place for anyone who appreciates art and creativity. Tickets are suggested, but if you can’t pay full price, the staff are very understanding and let you donate what you can (even $5–10). A welcoming space with lots to see—I really enjoyed it.
"
Visitor information
Contact details, accessibility, and opening hours.
Accessibility
The MCA is fully wheelchair accessible. Elevators provide access to all public levels. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the museum.
Best Season
Spring and Fall
Opening Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayToday10:00 - 21:00
Wednesday10:00 - 17:00
Thursday10:00 - 17:00
Friday10:00 - 17:00
Saturday10:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 17:00
Safety & Insider tips
Crowd hacks and small details that make the visit smoother.
Safety Tips
Stay safe and secure
1
Keep valuables out of sight while inside the museum and on the surrounding streets. Pickpockets can operate in crowded tourist areas, so avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
2
If visiting the museum at night, stick to well-lit and populated streets when walking to and from the location. Consider using a rideshare service or taxi instead of walking long distances alone.
3
Be cautious when approached by strangers offering assistance or trying to sell something near the museum. Politely decline and move away to avoid potential scams or unwanted attention.
4
Pay attention to any announcements or instructions from museum staff regarding safety procedures or emergency exits. Familiarize yourself with the museum's layout in case of an evacuation.
5
If you are bringing bags or backpacks, be prepared for security checks. Cooperate with security personnel and follow their instructions to ensure a smooth and safe entry into the museum.
Insider Tips
Pro traveler secrets
1
Take advantage of the MCA's docent-led tours to gain deeper insights into the exhibitions and the artists' intentions. These tours are often free with admission and provide valuable context.
2
Visit the MCA Store for unique souvenirs and art-related gifts. You might find interesting and affordable items that reflect the museum's contemporary aesthetic.
3
Combine your visit to the MCA with a stroll along nearby Michigan Avenue. It's a great way to experience Chicago's architecture and upscale shopping after immersing yourself in contemporary art.
4
Allow ample time to explore the MCA's diverse collection, which includes paintings, sculptures, photography, and performance art. Rushing through the exhibits might mean missing out on thought-provoking pieces.
5
Check out the MCA's performance schedule. They often have innovative and engaging performances that are well-worth seeing if you like live contemporary arts.
Location & Directions
Find your way to the attraction.
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Social videos
See what travelers are sharing about this attraction.
0:41
The Hidden Gems of the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago
The best museums in the world
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0:07
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
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0:11
Walking Beside the Contemporary Art Museum – The Orange Door Event | Backstage Chicago
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Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) | 📍Chicago, IL #vlog #travel #art
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244
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Who this is for
Find out if this attraction matches your travel style.
🎨
art lovers
The MCA Chicago is a haven for art enthusiasts. Discover thought-provoking exhibitions featuring contemporary art from diverse artists. Immerse yourself in painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations that push boundaries and challenge perspectives. Attend artist talks and workshops to deepen your understanding of the creative process. Explore the MCA's permanent collection, showcasing iconic works of modern and contemporary art. Engage with art that sparks dialogue and inspires new ways of seeing the world. Perfect for those seeking artistic stimulation and cultural enrichment.