Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago

5605 reviews

220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

mcachicago.org

+13122802660

About

Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago is a Art museum located at 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. It has received 5605 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday10AM-5PM
Tuesday10AM-5PM
WednesdayClosed
Thursday10AM-9PM
Friday10AM-5PM
Saturday10AM-5PM
Sunday10AM-5PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago: 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

  • Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago has 4.4 stars from 5605 reviews

  • Art museum

  • "The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Chicago offers an enriching and thought-provoking experience, particularly highlighted by my visit to the Gary Simmons exhibition"

    "Enjoyed our first visit to the MCA, although it was much different from what we expected"

    "Absolutely stunning museum of contemporary art that rivals any modern art museum anywhere in the world"

    "Recently spent a day at the MCA as it is free for Illinois residents on Tuesdays"

    "My visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art was disappointing"

Reviews

  • Ray Morgan

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Chicago offers an enriching and thought-provoking experience, particularly highlighted by my visit to the Gary Simmons exhibition. This particular exhibition was a powerful display of artistry and message, showcasing Simmons' ability to weave complex social themes into visually striking works. The exhibition was not just an artistic experience but an emotional journey, leaving a lasting impact with its depth and expressiveness. Beyond the specific exhibition, the MCA itself is a beautifully curated space. The layout of the museum is intuitive and engaging, allowing visitors to flow seamlessly from one exhibit to another. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the overall experience, making it easy to appreciate the diversity and richness of the contemporary art on display. The staff at the MCA deserves special mention for their helpfulness and knowledge. They were readily available to provide insights into the artworks and exhibitions, enriching my understanding and appreciation of the pieces. An added bonus of visiting the MCA is the free admission on Tuesdays for residents, making it an accessible cultural gem in the heart of Chicago. This policy reflects the museum's commitment to making art available to a broader audience. Overall, my experience at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago was exceptional. The Gary Simmons exhibition was a standout, but the museum's overall ambiance, thoughtful layout, and friendly staff all contributed to a memorable visit. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the pulse of contemporary art.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Elyse W

Enjoyed our first visit to the MCA, although it was much different from what we expected. The new "Public Enemy" exhibit featuring works by Gary Simmons fills the fourth floor. This is a stunning and thought-provoking exhibit on systemic racism in US visual arts culture. So glad we experienced this. There wasn't a general permanent exhibit of contemporary art available. Instead, we saw two large exhibits on different cultural critiques. Gift shop is two floors with a nice variety of items in terms of interests, taste, and price. However, most of the items were related to art that wasn't on display, so that seemed a little odd. Restrooms are on the first floor, which can be tough to access for anyone who relies on the busy elevators. Signs indicate a non-gender restroom on the second floor, but we didn't ever find it. Plenty of places to sit on benches to rest. Huge windows offering views of the city to the west and of the lake to the east. Just a two-mile walk from Union Station, but also accessible via public transit. FREE admission on Tuesdays for Illinois residents! We look forward to returning again for new exhibits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Victor Wang

Absolutely stunning museum of contemporary art that rivals any modern art museum anywhere in the world. As someone who loves art that is forward thinking and challenges the de facto boundaries set by the past, this place meets and far exceeds expectations. Featuring the works of many well-known artists and many more less known artists, a large diversity in pieces from size to medium is incorporated. The exhibition seems small at first glance but to truly appreciate all of the works inside, the space is deceptively large and can take quite some time to explore every work to its fullest extent. Many pieces are quite tall so are housed in the main exhibition space which contains a vaulted ceiling that seemingly goes on forever. It's a lovely space to behold and the free space located on the first floor at the opposite end of the main entrance is truly a beautiful sight to behold. Centrally located with friendly staff and inexpensive entry tickets, come check this place out!

  • Essyl G

Recently spent a day at the MCA as it is free for Illinois residents on Tuesdays. All the exhibitions were brilliant and thought provoking. I felt a deep connection because each artist was able to manifest their message. The theme was in thoughtful unison, as racism and colonization have strongly influenced majority of the artists' works. Similarly, the manipulation of truth is visualized in a powerful way. Entice your mind and visit the museum as it will intrigue your senses. Bani Abidi, Based on a True Story..., and Nick Cave's exhibitions were my personal favorites. I also made sure to have lunch at the newly reopened Marisol. Chef Jason Hammel brings back his authentic farm to table concept and it was a pleasant experience. It is located at the basement level with a sleek and modern design. There is a cafe along side of it as well. Will be back on another Tuesday soon!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

  • tomchook

My visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art was disappointing. Despite having only an hour to explore, I found that 25 minutes would have been sufficient. With four floors, one would expect a lot to see, but the second and third floors housed only a single tiny room each, which was embarrassing. I couldn't help but wonder who finds deep meaning in the bizarre videos on display. While I appreciate that art is subjective, it's challenging to comprehend the thought process behind these pieces. The Puerto Rico exhibition was decent, and the only highlight was the Gray Simmons exhibit on the fourth floor. I can't envision myself returning to this museum.

  • David Parkinson

What’s a museum of contemporary art if you can understand the meaning of more than 5% of what’s going on. I felt pleasantly bewildered here, as I had hoped to. It’s large enough to make the visit worth it, but small enough that you won’t spend more than 1-2 hours here. The gift shop is an additional plus - a vibrant atmosphere with lots of fun gadgets. I’m not a contemporary art guy, & I don’t find myself aching to return, which I why I withhold my 5th star. But let the people know that a 4-star review on a museum is fantastic for someone like me. Ps: free for Northwestern students!
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • Jules Dacanay

The friendliest welcome I’ve ever had from a museum. Went on a Tuesday and it was free for Illinois residents. Nevertheless it’s donate as you wish so give what you can. The exhibits to date (Jan 2022) are thoughtful and provoking and moving. Some will make you smile, many will make you think. A perfect amount of interactive and introspective. Some were even funny. The gift shop is especially entrancing and again so friendly. MCA is a lovely gem of a museum and worth the visit whatever age you’re in.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Marjorie Lu

Nice diversity in exhibits. Beautiful building and interior design. They switch art collection very often so go often you will be surprised. Sometimes it might not be your taste but still fun to check out new trends and artist. There's a cute cafe on the basement as well serve pretty good coffee. Farmer's Market out front on the Tuesday mornings but they aren't allowed dogs to go into the farmer's market! That was a bit disappointed. Love the Tuesday night Jazz, ordered a wine or beer and cheese and sit on the lawn. I saw people bring their own picnic basket too. a wonderful way to enjoy Chicago summer!

  • Butt Wiggler

They were setting up two new exhibits so only one floor open so reduced cost, I think normally $20 which is reasonable. What I saw was enjoyable. The restaurant downstairs has very good food. Marisol is the name, their pancakes with cinnamon butter delicious, friend had those. I had eggs and fries, enjoyed, friend also tried the fries and loved them. A very pleasant environment all around. I was very happy they have a bag and coat check right by the entrance.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$1–5

  • Kasey Senatore

Beautiful artwork and a very accessible set-up. I especially loved the interactive yarn sculpture -- it's in the center of the stairs and allows you to climb in after you take your shoes off. They also had a designated quiet room for meditation and prayer, which I thought was touching. The exhibits on black Americans' experiences and history was extremely eye-opening and impactful. Not only was the entire place beautiful, it was deeply moving and resonated with its viewers. It's something I'll remember for a long time. Left me speechless and unable to stop talking.

  • Kisha Johnson-Smith

First experience at MCA was for the Juneteenth Freedom Market event. Such a good time…plenty of vendors, music and libations. The 40+ Double Dutch provided some entertainment and it just a feel good vibe all around. My company sponsored this outing but I’ll attend next year even if the company doesn’t sponsor. I met the owner of Semicolon Bookstore, so I can’t wait to visit and patronize them! ♥️
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Leo man

I went to the Museum of Contemporary art Chicago last week for the first time. MCA is not the biggest museum you will see but the ambiance is really nice, staff are very friendly. There are two souvenirs stores upper, and lower level you can purchase a variety of things from books to skate boards etc. the location is in the heart of downtown so you can walk to many other attractions when in Chicago.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Wandering Us

As art lovers we do our best to visit art museums when possible. The MCA met beyond our expectations! Greeted by the super friendly staff we were excited to explore. The museum itself is so carefully and beautifully put together. In expensive at $15 pp or $8 for students. The commons was a great area to sit relax and feel inspired. We started at the bottom worked our way up. There wasn’t one exhibit we didn’t love. At the time Howardena was showing and her work is so powerful. A must see!

  • SirSymba

Loved the Exhibits that were on display. The plant room was amazingly welcoming. I had to stop to embrace the ambiance of the living room. Had gone with one of my partners and must say being there on the anniversary of MLK Funeral Procession and seeing a piece of how the ATL streets were FULL was breath taking. Also we had gone on a Tuesday which was free access.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Michelle Shaffner

The Museum of Contemporary Art is a fantastic place for inspiration and thought. It’s well curated & has a great gift shop and restaurant as well. We had an impromptu conversation with a gift shop employee about the undeveloped film hanging in the entry that got us off to a positive experience. We’ll be back! Educators: mention you teach and show proof for a discount on entry and at the gift shop.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • Daniel Campbell

The Museum Of Contemporary Art is a great museum! There is lots of interesting art to see there. I could spend hours looking at the wide selection that they have. My personal favorite is the Babylonian wall made out of trash. It’s certainly a sight to see. The tickets for the museum were very reasonable, compared to larger museums in the Chicago area.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Kristi Keorkunian-Rivers

One of my favorite places on earth. Impactful. Important. Free on Tuesdays. Gender neutral bathrooms. Each piece of art has an explanation of the relevancy, rather than guesswork. Drag queen story hour. Experimental music bingo. Family days. Sensory-specific times for neurodivergent people. Cannot recommend this place enough!!!!! We even take our annual family photo in the stairwell.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Leslie Fazio

Loved it! Especially the education center on the third floor. It was family day, so there were activities for everyone! The exhibit were well laid out and thought provoking. However, the top two floors were closed because new exits were being installed. Bad timing. They should do one at a time. Look for coupons before buying tickets.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • emily cook

I loved this museum. It is so refreshing to see a place featuring a majority women artists. 4 of the main 6 exhibitions featured women. The displays were thoughtfully done, including colorful walls and things beyond the normal white walled museum. Each exhibit was worth reading about clearly well thought out. Definitely worth a visit.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • a_13_a

The Museum is big and has lots of collections. And their shop is also big and has several displays. I went there on a weekday but still there were many visitors. If you have heavy jackets/coats and bags, they have a concierge where you can leave it for free. Transportation is not hard, there is a bus stop few steps from the entrance.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Tim Lam

This museum is on the smaller side, but houses a good amount of contemporary and modern art. A large section was closed off when we went last week so contact them before going if you’re trying to hit up all the exhibits. I’ve gone a few times and have been able to enjoy every visit with temporary exhibits keeping things fresh.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Armi

Visited the museums on a Tuesday which is a free admission. My favorite piece was The Assumption of Weee by Enrico David. I also really enjoyed the Nick Cave exhibit. I wasn’t familiar with his work before. His work was impressive in person. Amazing pieces with many great details. Glad I got to catch it while I was in Chicago.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Samruddhi Kapileshwar

It was our first time visiting this museum and it surpassed our expectations. The museum has 4 levels and has exhibits from various artists. We were here to see the Nick Cave exhibit. Overall it was an amazing experience. Also, it is free on Tuesdays for Illinois residents and open till 9 pm (only on Tuesday’s).
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Lisa Thornton

Nick Cave is amazing!!!! I so recommend seeing this exhibit. I loved the Sound Suits. The one with the ships was so powerful. And the really fun part was coming in and seeing all of the hanging items....so many images and colors. The whole exhibit was beautifully amazing. Well worth the trip in from Michigan.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

  • Sven Tietz

Yeah, . Unless there’s a specific exhibit you’re dying to see, not really worth it. Museum is small, not much happening, with the exhibits on display during my visit definitely trying too hard, even by modern art standards. Definitely expected more of a Modern Art Museum in a city the size of chicago
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Jiseob Kim

Although the exhibition hall is not expansive, each artwork is given ample space. The building and its facilities were impeccable, indicative of the museum's excellent management and operation. Given the reasonable pricing, it's definitely worth a visit if you're in Chicago. Thank you :)
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • David Bohn

A great place for a little cultural expansion! It had a great exhibit on the social climate of today and discussions on it. Especially when the weather's great, it's excellent to visit because it also has a beautiful enclosed courtyard in the heart of downtown Chicago!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Ashley Bushala

Went for the Tuesday night summer concert series, and checked out the exhibits. Highly recommend. If you’re coming for the concerts, come early and bring a sturdy blanket in case the grass is went from recent rain. They did have some free lawn chairs to use as well.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Gita Patel

Great art display: "Public Enemy" along with other exhibits that offer pause and thought. You must love contemporary art and be in tune with societal woes to truly enuoy the experience. Someone we went with doesnt like either and the experience was lost on them!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Ash Lamba

Right in downtown Chicago, this museum is small but as the name suggests it’s a modern and contemporary setup. It has chic architecture, do check for free visit days on their website. I also like the cafe, the cappuccino served is really good and the guac toast too. I also like the stairs design and the resting space in basement. The gift shop has some quirky and artistic stuff.

  • Cristela

Visited on a Tuesday afternoon, the museum is bustling with visitors. I saw artists that I was not previously acquainted with on my visit and it was interesting to eavesdrop on a featured young artist explaining his installation to a group. It's very affordable ($15) and you get an $8 ticket if you are a teacher! It's not large and you can see all the exhibits in about 2 hours.

  • Molly Smith

A wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Friendly staff at the front desk, we went on a Saturday afternoon and it wasn't too busy. I loved exploring every exhibition and the gift shop was also fun to peruse. My favorite was Nick Cave: Forothermore!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Sanjay Kondur

Powerful works of Bani Abidi and Andrea Bowers on display. Starting January visitors will require proof of vaccination for 5 and older. Visitors 16 and older will also need to provide a valid photo ID along with their proof of vaccination.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Ju _

It was interesting but pretty small with few pieces. Also, there was a live event happening that they didn't inform us when we bought our tickets at the door. We were definitely lost when it started, and we didn't know what was happening.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

  • Cinnamon Willis

I really enjoyed this museum. I was intrigued by the artwork that was on the first level, but completely moved by the art from the artist Gary Simmons. Very thought provoking and made me rethink same of the imagery that I grew up seeing.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

  • MSF

The museum is smaller than the Art Institute but still interesting. The building is nice on the inside. Unfortunately, when I went a lot of the museum was closed off as they were changing out the exhibits. But I'm sure it's much nicer when all the exhibits are open.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • David Morrison

The museum is easy to get to though we were a bit surprised that you had to pay $15 to get in, most museums in Europe are free to enter. Some of the displays are very good though some are absolutely rubbish, but that's just my point of view. Either way, the displays do get you thinking and the staff are really helpful. Worth a visit on a wet day.

  • J.W. Stump Jr.

Visited the exhibit by Nick Cave! If you can make it before his exhibit ends on October 2nd, please make the time. We spent about 1.5 hrs but could have spent longer. I've been a huge fan of Mr Cave's for over 30 years.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$6–10

  • Jabarrus Jones

I loved the ambience of the MCA Chicago. So many amazing works of contemporary art and culture on display there. I enjoyed all the exhibits especially Bani Abidi and Nick Cave's thought provoking pieces. 5 star experience.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Rory Corrigan

Not the biggest contemporary art museum, but some solid pieces, and a great focus on Gary Simmons on the top floor. Nice neighborhood to wander, as well, plus there is a small cafe right at the ground floor admission desk.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Archit Jha

Modernist sculptures, paintings, crafts, and exhibits forge a creatively stimulating and aesthetic pleasing ensemble at the MCA. Great place for any art-lover and a must visit if you’re in Chicago. Admissions are FREE on Tuesdays for Illinois residents when the museum is open late till 9. On other days it’s $15 for general public. …

  • Scott Pactor

Came here to see the Gary Simmons exhibit which was sick. Nice museum, similar to their MOCA'S in terms of being exhibit driven with no permanent collection. If you are around during this Simmons exhibition, check it out.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Monika Kowal

This museum is on the smaller side so there isn't a ton to see, but the works present were still very interesting. There were some really cool things in the gift shop too. :) Definitely worth checking out. I would recommend going on a Tuesday morning.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

  • Thinx Sphinx

The Teen Takeover was great! The artistry, the exhibits, and the collaborations were interactive and innovative. Shout out to Hour Nine. The afternoon was sweetened with free admission for Chicago residents.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Jason C

Great museum that has four floors of modern art, installations, and collections. There's a cute cafe on the basement as well. The tours are good and interactive so I would recommend that. Also great gift shop - I'd be happy with anything from there as a present. Worth a stop. Not bad prices especially if you're a student.

  • Frank Arev

5-1-2022 Quick Visit. Had to wear face mask for visit. Nice exhibits however a bit disappointed by the lack of quantity. Thanks OK as it makes me want to visit the upcoming galleries in 2022.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Daniel Hefford

Only one of the 3 floors were open so they only charged us 5$. The two exabits were cool. One was about Puerto Ricans in Chicago. The other was extract art which to me feels noisy and chaotic.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

  • Anya V

Really great concepts. Would be better if it were more interactive for children to feel involved; they're not much into reading stories behind the art. Absolutely loved their shop!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Agnes Peignen

Very interesting museum with a sharp selection of artwork always well explained. I had the opportunity to discover the work of Gary Simmons and loved it but I also appreciated the diversity of the artwork exposed on the lower floors. You can enjoy the terrace for a cool-down with nice music.

  • Takisha Thomas

My husband and I visited the museum while in Chicago for the weekend. It was one of our favorite parts of our trip! We really enjoyed the set up, the exhibits, as well as the store. Definitely a great experience. The museum staff was helpful and I really appreciated the free coat check!

  • alduy tor

I felt disappointed for the lack of art works. The third floor was closed to the public because a new show. I enjoyed the three floor store and the food at the cafe.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Eric Harris

This museum is amazing. I didn't get a chance to see all of it. But from what K saw.....you elikd be amazed. So much art and so many art forms. Beautiful!!!!!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Bekah Johnson Leibrandt

Thoroughly enjoyable, even for the artistically untrained. Bite-sized descriptions are interesting, educational (often including details of the artist's intentions and process), and are posted in several languages. Bright, lofty spaces, and the staff couldn't have been more welcoming.

  • sara t

Most of the art is way too conceptual or pretty much ready-made. I just can’t appreciate the art that wasn’t technically skilled. Some of the stuff I felt I could have found on my work site like the rolled up clay that was driven over or the one room where they cut into the dry wall.

  • Andy Feliciotti

Had a memorable time at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. It's definitely worth a visit! The exhibitions on view were captivating, and the gift shop is incredible with unique finds. I'm already looking forward to my next trip to Chicago so I can return. Highly recommended!

  • Jim Bell

Nice collection, well presented. Nice restaurant, snack bar. Outside display was good. Too hot, I was drenched, more water coolers please, or turn down the heat. Limited gift store. I really enjoyed the variety and quality of the artwork. Movement through the museum was easy.

  • Carlos Aréchiga

Great, brief exhibits at MCA Chicago. It was my first time visiting and really enjoyed it. You can visit all floors in just a few hours so it’s a perfect stop if you are trying to squeeze in an extra activity during your visit to Chicago. I encourage you to check it out.

  • Michal R

Nice. It's a shame that the staff at the entrance is so stiff. I am a tourist, I arrived with a small medium backpack and I had to explain myself for 10 minutes in order to be allowed to enter with a bag and leave it in the luggage storage with money and passport

  • H. Yas

There are so many amazing art pieces, you will lose your mind! So many original works that are legendary, this museum is definitely one of the best in the WORLD. You have to check this out when in Chicago. It will take all day, so be prepared and have fun!

  • Alexis Martinez

By far my favorite museum in Chicago! I’ve been here numerous times and there is always something new or a new installation being put in. Featuring some of the greatest artist with numerous mediums. I am now a member and can’t wait to be back! More

  • Alphonza Faison Junior

Museum is a great place to enjoy amazing art installations. The staff are friendly and informative offering to explain more about an exhibit. The fourth floor showcases the most art. I came during rights activists Andrea Bowers showcase and

  • Sarah Mathre

We saw a lot of interesting contemporary art pieces. There were videos of people doing an interpretive dance, indigenous art work, and a lot of art work by women and people of color. I learned a lot today about contemporary art. My favorite

  • Global Report

The museum is extremely interesting, it has different wings, depending on your aesthetic preferences in art you can enjoy various exhibitions. The place is very friendly, along with the staff. there is a cloakroom. You can enjoy almost the

  • Kim Singletary

This is such a fantastic museum. It's small physically, but feel enormous. I learn about so many new artists as well as artists I thought I knew. The exhibits are thoughtful and well designed and the space is beautiful. It's a wonderful

  • Tiffany Hill

While in Chicago, this is a great place to stop through. We went specifically for the Nick Cave exhibit which was the highlight and runs for a couple of months from June. The outside of the building has cool seating with cushions on the

  • Shelley Sharkey

Great museum tucked in between Michigan Avenue and the Lake Shore on the Northside. Easy to see everything in a few hours. Walk to Watertower Place for lunch, or brunch at famous Wildberry on the corner. Exhibits change. We visited

  • Paxton Scott

Came here on April the 12th on Easter break this year. It was fun. A lot of things to see there like arts, culture, etc. I recommend going :)
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No

  • Tammy Owins

Always a diverse showing of dialog expressed through art. Lovely day to sit on the patio, can’t wait til Marisol opens again for lunch. Accessibility via elevator to exhibits, store & rest areas. Tuesday’s free for IL residents.

  • Zoya

Not what I expected, a lot of the art was not art in my opinion. The building itself is nice, spacious and clean. There were a few pieces that I loved, but that's about it. I'm sure some would enjoy it, just not my cup of tea.

  • G Petti

Never been here before. Learned a few things about contemporary art. Took some pictures. Not a large museum, 3 floors I believe. You will need less than 3 hours to enjoy the exhibits. It is free on Tuesdays for Chicagoans.

  • Debi Majumdar

Very captivating exhibits at the museum, a visit here is completely worth it, it has someone for everyone. The gift shop had a lot of funny finds I loved, and the interior and design of the museum is something special.

  • Lou S

WOW! I loved my visit! The exhibits were extremely thought provoking and beautiful. I really appreciated the interactive exhibit too. The cafe was crowded and so was the gift store! Lots of cool things to see and buy.

  • David R

Definitely and interesting museum. Very friendly and helpful staff that likes to discuss to art if you like. Only 2 floors of art as 4th floor was under construction. Not many pieces but a good 1-2 hours of pondering.

  • Jonas Ladekjaer

Arrived at 3pm (closes at 5pm)... a little worried we would run out of time, but for our contemporary art itch 2 hours was just fine! Lots of cool stuff for sure, and lots of stuff a true contemporary art fan might

  • Doc inc

Absolutely beautiful art. I went to a fashion show at this location. Blown away. Everyone should visit, especially tourist
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

  • Susie Lee

Love it! Great place to swing by for a visit for Contemporary Art. Make sure to check out the gift shop downstairs.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

  • Nick Stodel

Fantastic art. Very thought provoking. One of my best gallery experiences ever.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$11–15

  • Ilia Borishchev

The gift shop is the only part worth visiting if you are not a huge fun of a contemporary art - in its worse sense ;) note you should not pay 22 bucks to enter the shop, so save a bit on that trick ;)

  • Barbara Lyapneva

The museum is great and so is the gift shop! It’s relatively small, so one goes through it quickly.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

  • Wendy Huang

It was interesting but there were a lot of exhibits that were closed or being put up. It ended up being a pretty short trip. Their store had lots of cool things and the jewelry looked nice.

  • Peter Kras

That was reaaaally nothing special, there are too few exhibitions.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

  • Red Barker

Good range of exhibits, even with one up on the 4th floor being re-fitted. Hence a reduced ticket price to $12. Lovely Café on the lower level and interesting shop next door also.

  • Sandeepan Bose

Contemporary Art has changed its media. Don't expect acrylic on canvas. There are a lot of videos. But i guess soon there would be a meme corner too. Sculpture is timeless.

  • Eve Kenya

The Museum is being renovated nothing much to see. Art on first floor only.
Visited on
Weekend
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

  • Bead Haus

I was there for a Juneteenth event celebration supporting local artist and my sister's art of shoemaking the vibe and atmosphere was absolutely amazing.

  • Elsbeth Magilton

Beautifully curated and a good museum for a quicker trip; while there are four floors there are only a few galleries on each.
Visited on
Weekday

  • Michael Herlache

The MCA is a great venue. Always had a blast here on First Fridays with my friends. Great way to get social and see cool art!
Visited on
Weekday

  • Mark Spengler

Brilliant exhibitions, great food, inspiring architecture. Don’t miss this provocative and beautiful museum if you haven’t been. Recommended.

  • Ruplekha Biswas

Great place to explore some contemporary art , Staffs are friendly too. I like the most the gift shop, lots of great stuff to explore .

  • Greg G.

Great rotating exhibits and super knowledgeable staff. Sensors work great too so don’t get too close to the art!

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