Smart Museum of Art — Attraction in Hyde Park Township

The Smart Museum of Art in Hyde Park is a gem located on the campus of the University of Chicago in the Windy City. As one of Chicago's many fantastic art museums, the Smart showcases its world-class collection in a spacious setting that always delivers pure aesthetic bliss, even in the midst of bitter Chiberia winds howling outside.

The Smart boasts an impressive assembly of paintings, sculpture, photography, and other creative works from across time periods and cultures. From Monets to Warhols, visitors can observe art representing diverse eras and perspectives. And with the Oriental Institute and Robie House nearby, the Smart is perfectly positioned to complete one's cultural exploration of this iconic neighborhood on Chicago's South Side.

As you stroll the Smart's airy halls adorned with brilliant art, don't forget to gaze out the towering windows at Hyde Park's famed Midway Plaisance—a historic trail where you might spot joggers braving Chicago's gusty breezes. Few other institutions match the inspired atmosphere of thoughtful contemplation that this treasured museum cultivates in the heart of the City of Big Shoulders. Whether you're an art aficionado or just looking for a mesmerizing way to spend an afternoon, the Smart Museum of Art deserves a place at the top of your...

I am a frequent visitor to Chicago, but had never been to the Smart Museum of Art (or any of the small museums on the Hyde Park campus of the University of Chicago). That changed in June of 2025. Instead of spending my day (again) at the Museum of Science and Industry, I walked 30 minutes to the west of the MSI to the Smart Museum, the DuSable Black History Museum and the Institute for the Study of Ancient Civilizations and Cultures. I am very happy I did.

The Smart Museum is a small, free art museum that is very, very well curated with interesting and impactful pieces. There were some "traditional" art pieces, but also quite a few modern and 3-D pieces that were wonderful to look at. All the staff members were delightful and they all seemed to really, really enjoy working there. While talking with one staff member, I learned another staff member and I were from the same city--so a short but fun conversation was had.

If you can get yourself to the Museum of Science and Industry, I highly recommend making the short jaunt to the Smart Museum (and the others mentioned above). It was a good day and I'm really happy I made the time for these smaller, off the beaten...

post, November 2017: Meter parking available. Since this museum is on the University of Illinois, free parking was a challenge and I was lucky to find free parking during the day. WIN! Upon entry, an employee in the help desk kindly directed me the must see exhibit if I'm only spending a short time there. Another win when it is free admission and open to the public always.

Houses 15,000 pieces of art all cramed into this building! I don't know much about art, though I like the idea of going back into time of how people lived through film/video, sculptures, posters, and paintings.

Even better when crafts are donated to other charities esp the museum display by Jayna Zweiman: Welcome Blanket. The artist allows participants to make a blanket for new immigrants or refugees. This exhibit closed down last December 2017.

Spend some time at this museum when you're...