Calling all Illinoisans to the Art Institute of Chicago. Did you know the first and second Wednesday of each month is free to all Illinois residents? Just bring your driver’s license or proof of residency to the ticket office (you may be asked to make a donation) and enjoy a stunning collection of world class art.

Explore the well known impressionism paintings from Monet to Van Gogh. Step into the new Modern Wing and find contemporary artwork bathed in light and openness. Both, the original and the new wings, have delightful gift shops.  Here, you can purchase a souvenir of one of the great master’s works or a lesser known craftsman’s object you may want to savor. After you depart the museum, take a stroll to the museum’s outdoor sculpture gardens and find yourself insulated from the city’s hustle and bustle. Migrating warblers, owls and woodpeckers have been seen here in the trees (by yours truly) making it hard to believe you are in the middle of a major metropolis. Take a Wednesday morning, afternoon or day and feed your senses with art, for free!