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Families

Description

The MCA is a great place for families to connect with contemporary art. We offer experiences that redefine the way that kids and families explore and create art together.

Featured image

A large group of children and adults gather around a freestanding doorway-like sculpture in a brightly lit gallery space.
Artist-led activities on Family Days invite families to explore contemporary art together. Family Day Photo: Joshua Longbrake © MCA Chicago

Family Days Are on Hiatus

We are redesigning our building so that we can be more welcoming and open to you, our visitors. Because of this, Family Days are on pause and will resume in fall 2017.

During this time we’re making sure the MCA continues to be a place for families. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • The museum will remain open to visitors of all ages during the redesign.
  • The MCA will continue to be free for families with children 12 years and younger on the 2nd Saturday of the month, 11 am to 3 pm, December to May.
  • Pick up a special activity kit designed to help your family navigate the MCA and explore the galleries at the admission desk.

Stroller Tours

Experience a stimulating hour of art with your little one in tow every first Wednesday of the month. These tours are free with museum admission.

 

Family Conveniences

Park your stroller and backpacks at our complimentary coat check.

Diaper-changing stations are located in the first-floor restrooms.

Fun books, games, and toys can be purchased in the children’s section of the MCA Store.

Deepen your relationship with the MCA. Our Household Membership ($75) is perfect for families, providing free admission for two adults and youth under 18 throughout the year. To enroll, call Member Services at 312-397-4040 or sign up online.

Upcoming Family Events

Tips for Visiting as a Family

Exhibitions at the MCA are always changing, so there’s sure to be something new to explore each time you come to the museum. To help you make the most of your time, here are some tips for visiting the MCA as a family:

Pace yourself

Take your time. Choose a gallery, see which work of art catches your eye, and slow down to take a closer look. Don’t worry about trying to see everything in one visit.

MAKE IT FUN

Bring some paper and a pencil to sketch in the galleries. Become your own expert. Invent titles and stories about the art. Move your body: imitate a work of art's shapes, lines, or images. Find other shapes and lines that are similar throughout the building and in other artworks.

TALK IT OUT

Sometimes people think they have to be quiet in a museum. That’s not the case here! We invite you to talk, laugh, and share ideas about what you see and notice. Use our resource, Asking Art: 10 Questions as a way to spark conversations while you’re here.

Rules of the Road

Talk through these helpful guidelines together before you take to the galleries.

Can you touch the art?

Look with your eyes, not with your hands. Salts and oils on people’s hands can damage the artwork. But sometimes we do invite you to touch—so watch out for signs.

Can you draw or write?

Feel free to draw or write. Use a pencil, please, and think of new ideas and images.

Can you run?

We prefer that you walk. There are lots of people and objects around you. We want them—and you—to be safe.