Smart Museum of Art
A free, gem of an art museum on the UChicago campus, showcasing diverse art from ancient to contemporary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, relaxed vibe
Smart Museum of Art
Best Time
Less crowded, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, gem of an art museum on the UChicago campus, showcasing diverse art from ancient to contemporary.
"Don’t overlook this gem hidden on the campus of the University of Chicago."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a world-class art experience without spending a dime.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Days
Check for special family days with hands-on activities for kids.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Art Collections
Throughout the museum
From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, discover a wide array of art that spans centuries and cultures.
Thought-Provoking Modern Pieces
Contemporary galleries
Engage with modern and 3-D art that sparks conversation and offers unique perspectives.
Infinity Cube Installation
Specific gallery (check museum map)
Experience a mesmerizing LED infinity cube that plays with light and perception.
Rothko Painting
European art section
Admire the powerful and emotive works of renowned artist Mark Rothko.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Explore Hyde Park's Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a world-class art experience without spending a dime.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Days
Check for special family days with hands-on activities for kids.
🚶♀️ Explore Hyde Park
Combine your visit with other UChicago campus attractions.
💡 Engage with Staff
Museum staff are knowledgeable and happy to share insights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a world-class art experience without spending a dime.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Days
Check for special family days with hands-on activities for kids.
🚶♀️ Explore Hyde Park
Combine your visit with other UChicago campus attractions.
💡 Engage with Staff
Museum staff are knowledgeable and happy to share insights.
📸 Capture the Moment
Don't miss the stunning infinity cube installation for unique photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Smart Museum of Art for its free admission and diverse, well-curated collection that spans ancient to contemporary art. Many highlight the engaging modern pieces, including the infinity cube, and the helpful, friendly staff. While some note its smaller size, most agree it's a hidden gem worth visiting, especially when exploring the Hyde Park area.
"This is a nice little art museum with a wide assortment of art. From the ancient world to contemporary art, this museum has a little bit of it all. It’s also free, and well worth a stop if you appreciate art. The staff seemed knowledgeable and was quite helpful. The large LED infinity cube was quite beautiful, as was the Rothko painting. The pieces from lesser known artists were also thought provoking and shouldn’t be overlooked. Don’t overlook this gem hidden on the campus of the University of Chicago."
Mateo Gebon
"They've got some really cool art and art from some really big names. The staff was lovely. The only thing is that this museum is incredibly small, I would rate it higher if there was more to see. But it's definitely worth a visit if you are in the area!"
N A
"I am a frequent visitor to Chicago, but had never been to the Smart Museum of Art (or any of the small museums on the Hyde Park campus of the University of Chicago). That changed in June of 2025. Instead of spending my day (again) at the Museum of Science and Industry, I walked 30 minutes to the west of the MSI to the Smart Museum, the DuSable Black History Museum and the Institute for the Study of Ancient Civilizations and Cultures. I am very happy I did.
The Smart Museum is a small, free art museum that is very, very well curated with interesting and impactful pieces. There were some "traditional" art pieces, but also quite a few modern and 3-D pieces that were wonderful to look at. All the staff members were delightful and they all seemed to really, really enjoy working there. While talking with one staff member, I learned another staff member and I were from the same city--so a short but fun conversation was had.
If you can get yourself to the Museum of Science and Industry, I highly recommend making the short jaunt to the Smart Museum (and the others mentioned above). It was a good day and I'm really happy I made the time for these smaller, off the beaten path museums."
Lisa Jorgensen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Smart Museum of Art is located on the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park. You can reach it via public transportation, including the Metra rail to Hyde Park. Driving is also an option, with parking available nearby.
Parking is available in the vicinity of the museum on the University of Chicago campus. It's advisable to check the university's parking regulations for the most up-to-date information.
Taking the Metra rail from downtown Chicago to Hyde Park is a convenient and affordable option. From the station, it's a pleasant walk or a short ride to the museum.
Yes, several bus routes serve the Hyde Park area, making the Smart Museum accessible via public transport. Check local transit schedules for specific routes and times.
The museum is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Smart Museum of Art offers free admission to all visitors, making it a fantastic cultural destination.
The Smart Museum of Art typically has hours from Wednesday to Sunday, often closing on Mondays and Tuesdays. It's best to check their official website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Since admission is free, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special events or group visits, it's always a good idea to check the museum's policy.
While general admission is free, some special exhibitions might have specific viewing times or require advance registration, though this is uncommon. Always check the museum's website for details on current exhibitions.
The museum's holiday hours can vary. It's essential to consult the Smart Museum's official website for their holiday schedule and any potential closures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Smart Museum of Art features a diverse collection spanning Asian, European, Contemporary, and Modern art, with over 12,000 objects. You'll find everything from ancient artifacts to thought-provoking modern pieces.
Yes, the Smart Museum often hosts family days with engaging activities for children, making it a great option for a family outing.
A visit to the Smart Museum can take anywhere from a couple of hours to half a day, depending on your interest level and how deeply you explore the collections.
While not always advertised, inquire at the information desk about potential guided tours or educational programs that might be available during your visit.
Visitors often highlight the infinity cube installation and the Rothko painting as must-see pieces. The museum's diverse collection ensures there's something to captivate everyone.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most galleries of the Smart Museum of Art, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
Yes, flash photography is typically not allowed. Also, some special exhibitions might have specific photography restrictions. It's best to be mindful of your surroundings and any posted rules.
The LED infinity cube is a highly photogenic installation. Many visitors also find the diverse artworks themselves to be excellent subjects for photography.
Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted in art museums to avoid obstructing other visitors and potentially damaging artworks. Check the museum's policy for specifics.
Some museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offer open-access sections on their websites where you can download images for free use. Check the Smart Museum's website for similar resources.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The diverse collection means there's something to capture the imagination of children of all ages, from ancient artifacts to engaging modern pieces. The museum's manageable size also prevents little ones from getting overwhelmed. When planning your visit, check the museum's schedule for upcoming Family Days. These events are designed to be interactive and educational, ensuring a positive experience for the whole family. The staff are also known to be friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic lunch in one of Hyde Park's green spaces or explore other free attractions in the area to keep costs even lower. The museum's location on the University of Chicago campus also means you're in a vibrant area with affordable dining options nearby.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
Particular highlights often include pieces from lesser-known artists, which are noted for being thought-provoking and deserving of attention. The museum's curatorial approach emphasizes thoughtful arrangement, allowing visitors to draw connections between different works and periods. This makes for an engaging and educational experience, even for those new to the art world.
Beyond the permanent collection, the Smart Museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into specific themes, artists, or cultural movements. These exhibitions provide fresh perspectives and opportunities to see new and exciting works. Always check the museum's website for current exhibition schedules to plan your visit accordingly.
The Infinity Cube and Optical Illusions
While not explicitly focused on optical illusions, the museum's collection, particularly its modern and contemporary sections, often features works that challenge perception. Artists frequently use techniques that play with scale, perspective, and visual information, much like the Beuchet Chair illusion mentioned in one TikTok video.
Experiencing these types of installations can be a highlight for many visitors, offering a moment of wonder and a unique photo opportunity. It underscores the Smart Museum's role in presenting art that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also intellectually stimulating and interactive.
A Cultural Hub in Hyde Park
Being part of the university also means the museum benefits from a strong academic connection, often featuring exhibitions that engage with scholarly research and diverse perspectives. This academic underpinning contributes to the thoughtful curation and the intellectual depth of the displayed works.
For those looking to experience more of Chicago's cultural offerings beyond the downtown core, Hyde Park presents a compelling alternative. The Smart Museum, along with its neighboring institutions, offers a more intimate and often less crowded experience, allowing for a more personal connection with the art and the surrounding environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit