312-664-3939

Chicago has a wealth of art to suit the tastes of most visitors to the city - everything from ethnic art to modern art, outdoor sculpture to the vast exhibits in the Art Institute of Chicago. If your preference runs to American art, you’ll find one of the most comprehensive collections in the world at the Terra Museum of American Art. Visitors can learn about America’s artistic heritage through permanent and visiting exhibits, and educational programs.

The Terra Museum of American Art was founded in 1980 by Daniel J. Terra, former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Cultural Affairs. The museum moved from its location in Evanston, Illinois to Chicago in 1987. Its Michigan Avenue address increased its accessibility and exhibition space. The current building was designed by Booth-Hansen and was awarded the American Institute of Architects Award.

Inside this five-story museum you’ll find more than 800 important works of art including paintings, prints and sculptures. Some of the artists represented include Homer, Sargent, Cassatt, O’Keeffe, Hopper and Avery. Don’t miss the group of 69 works by Maurice and Charles Prendergast, including oil paintings, watercolors, monotypes and objects. The American Impressionist works of Theodore Robinson, Frieske and others are also of note. An early American masterpiece by Samuel F.B. Morse, "Gallery of the Louvre," (painted 1831-1833) is considered a museum highlight.

Contact the museum for information on upcoming visiting exhibits. Past traveling exhibitions included "N.C. Wyeth and His Grandson: A Legacy," and "Robert Capa: Photographs." The museum offers scheduled public tours at 12 noon daily, (except Monday when the museum is closed), and at 2 p.m. weekends.

After your visit, consider browsing the museum store for an unusual souvenir. Items for sale include children’s books, posters, note cards, jewelry, textiles and pottery by regional artists.

The museum is open Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 12 noon to 5 p.m. General admission is $7.00 for adults; $3.50 for seniors; free at all times to teachers, students, U.S. veterans and children under 12.

For information on the Terra Museum of American Art, call 312.664.3939.