It's that time again for the Windy City residents to explore their own backyard without spending a dime. Illinois residents can enjoy a smorgasbord of culture and history during spring break, as Chicago's top-tier museums offer an array of free admission days. Forget about shelling out for tickets to laze around in the sun when you can soak up the rich experiences these museums have to offer, from towering dinosaur skeletons to immersive art experiences.

The Field Museum is one of the hotspots opening its doors for free every Wednesday, confirming that there's no need to reserve in advance; just show up with proof that you're a local. The Shedd Aquarium is similarly splashing out with free Tuesday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. throughout March and April. According to an NBC Chicago report, "Shedd Aquarium offers free admission to Illinois residents on March 26, April 2, April 9, April 16, April 23, and April 30." Mark the calendar, or you'll miss out on these fin-tastic opportunities to experience aquatic delights for zero bucks.

But why stop the spree there? The Museum of Science and Industry is generously granting Illinois folks free entry on April 21, perfect timing to add a dash of educational fun to your spring holiday. Lest we forget, the Chicago History Museum isn't stingy either, providing free days on March 27, March 28, April 10, April 18, and April 24, as per information obtained by WGN TV.

For those who prefer to marvel at the brushstrokes of a Rivera or Siqueiros at no cost, the National Museum of Mexican Art is free daily, and the art-forward can relish in this any day of the week except Mondays. If your idea of a perfect day involves perusing the wonders of natural history or gazing at a mesmerizing school of fish, now is the time to absolutely leap at the chance. To dodge the crowds and make sure you've got a spot, it's wise to register online in advance for most of these cultural touchstones.

Adding to the mix, WGN TV has pointed out that the local public library system is an invaluable resource for additional free and discounted museum passes through the Explore More Illinois program. Any resident with a library card has the key to unlocking these benefits. And for those who are content with enjoying lush greenery without ever stepping foot outside of Chicago, the Garfield Park Conservatory offers that free tropical escape all year round, although a reservation might be necessary.

So, as the school bells ring in a needed break for teachers and students alike, it’s apparent that Chicago’s famed museums have taken it upon themselves to lend a hand—or better yet, open their doors—to make sure this spring break is not only relaxing but also culturally enriching for residents. For additional details and to plan your visit, the respective museum websites have all the information you need to turn this spring break into an educational marathon.