Discover the rich tapestry of global art through this virtual experience at The Art Institute of Chicago. Perfect for learners of all ages, it offers cultural insights and connections in just one hour.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required, just curiosity and interest.
Wildlife
History
Founded in 1879, the Art Institute has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s cultural scene, evolving through extensive collections and galleries.
Conservation
The museum emphasizes sustainable practices in preservation and environmental responsibility, including energy-efficient lighting and conservation efforts.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Discover the rich tapestry of global art through this virtual experience at The Art Institute of Chicago. Perfect for learners of all ages, it offers cultural insights and connections in just one hour.
The Art Institute of Chicago is a major museum in Chicago, Illinois that offers a broad range of educational programs for youth, school groups, and community audiences. The museum provides in-person tours, bilingual experiences in English and Spanish, virtual sessions, and hands-on art studio activities designed to connect students with artworks and creative practice.
Education programs include college-intern-led Youth Group Tours (summer), bilingual Youth Group Tours (English & Spanish), and specially designed hour-long tours such as Art Across Cultures and Art + History: Chicago. Virtual options — including Art + Activism and Art + Access — support remote learning and accessibility through sensory-rich strategies and verbal descriptions. The Art Studio Experience pairs a guided tour with a hands-on mosaic-making studio session (available on Mondays), with a clear request to note accessibility needs at reservation time.
Programs emphasize student-centered engagement, cultural reflection, and opportunities for personal expression. Educators and trained college interns lead sessions and shape interactions that meet diverse classroom goals. The museum highlights bilingual instruction and inclusive approaches to ensure learners of varied backgrounds and abilities can participate meaningfully.
By offering seasonal, bilingual, in-person, and virtual formats, the Art Institute of Chicago supports classroom learning objectives, arts education standards, and community outreach. Groups planning visits are encouraged to review program descriptions and indicate accessibility or language needs when booking to ensure a successful, welcoming experience.
Tours Offered
10
A variety of guided and virtual experiences
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Museum located in Chicago
Scheduling
Summer & Virtual
Seasonal and online program options
Inclusive Programs
Bilingual & Accessible
Supports Spanish and diverse needs
Reserve a youth group, bilingual tour, studio day, or virtual experience to enrich classroom learning and inspire student creativity.
Participate actively
Engage with the artworks by asking questions and reflecting on their cultural significance.
Use headphones
Utilize headphones for better audio clarity and a more immersive experience.
Schedule ahead
Book the virtual experience in advance to ensure your preferred date and time.
Prepare bilingual materials
Have translation tools ready if you wish to further explore language components.
Headphones
To ensure clear audio and an immersive virtual experience.
Device with internet access
A tablet, computer, or smartphone is needed to participate.
Notebook or notes app
Capture thoughts or questions during the experience.
Comfortable seating
A cozy spot to sit and focus during the hour-long session.