Chicago is always boasting its wealth and diversity of museums. From ancient and contemporary art galleries or educational centers, to cultural institutions or Asian-American fine art works, the city has a variety of museums for people at all ages. Each year, millions of visitors out of Chicago are attracted by these world-class museums. However, do you know that many of these landmarks offer Free Days throughout the year? This is really a sure bet to make your visit a greater value. And of course, local residents know this "secrets,"so they seldom go to the museums during the peak seasons. They wait for the Best Time!

When is the Best Time in Chicago for museum goers?

Autumn in Chicago, though a bit short, is often recognized to be the most fabulous time of a year for the city, and the weather will be fine. In autumn Chicago, the chance of thunderstorm is comparatively lower than summer days, and the temperature is mild and moderate, quite suitable for outdoor activities or tours.

Thus, with fragrant autumn coming near and children back to school, those iconic museums in Chicago are less crowded, then the best time throughout the year for the locals exploring the city starts!

Museum Free Days in September: A Sure Bet for Illinois Residents

Being an Illinois resident, you have the privileges! Multitude of museums in Chicago offer free admission days for residents in Illinois State only, but this is not always the case. Some museums, such as Loyola University Museum of Art and Swedish American Museum, provide free days for all visitors on select days.

(Even if the Free Day doesn't work for you, out-of-state visitors can take advantage of varied discounted admission, including special rates for seniors, students, children, military personnel, museum members, group visitors and others.)

Please note that the Free Day dates are subject to change without any notice. So it is advisable to check individual museum's website for exact details. Besides, here Free is applied to the admission, but the museums may charge a rate for special exhibits or events.

Listed below are the specific Free Days for different museums in September.

• The Art Institute of Chicago: September 7 & 14
• Museum of Science & Industry: September 6 to 9, 12 to 16, 19 to 23, 26 to 30
• Field Museum:September 6 to 9, 14 to 15, 19, 22 & 25
• Shedd Aquarium: September 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 & 27
• Chicago Children's Museum on Navy Pier: Free for all visitors at 5 to 8pm on September 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29. Free on September 4 for children aged 15 and less.
• Museum of Contemporary Art: September 6, 13, 20 & 27
• Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: September 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
• Chicago History Museum: September 12 to 16, 19 to 23, 26 to 30
• DuSable Museum of African American History:September 4, 11, 18 & 25
• Loyola University Museum of Art: September 6, 13, 20 & 27, free for all visitors
• Swedish American Museum: September 13, for all visitors
• Clarke House Museum: Free guided tours on September 7, 14, 21 & 28
• Glessner House Museum: Free guided tours on September 7, 14, 21 & 28

Or you can click here for a full list of Museum Free Days 2011 in Chicago.