McAninch Arts Center
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McAninch Arts Center

4.8
·815 reviews·Glen Ellyn, United States

A vibrant cultural hub on the College of DuPage campus, hosting diverse art exhibitions, live performances, and lectures.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Catch live performances

CrowdMedium
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McAninch Arts Center

McAninch Arts Center

Best Time

Evenings

Catch live performances

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant cultural hub on the College of DuPage campus, hosting diverse art exhibitions, live performances, and lectures.

4.8
(815 reviews)

"Unforgettable experiences with incredible art and professional staff, a must-visit venue!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Early

Popular shows and exhibits can sell out. Check the McAninch Arts Center website for tickets and schedules.

🖼️ Explore All Exhibits

The Warhol exhibition spans multiple spaces, including upstairs with Interview Magazines.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Andy Warhol Exhibition

Andy Warhol Exhibition

Cleve Carney Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in the world of Andy Warhol with over 200 original works, interactive exhibits, and magazine recreations.

Instagram+3
Live Performances

Live Performances

Mainstage Theater, Black Box Theater

Experience captivating plays, concerts, and dance performances, from local artists to touring ensembles.

Instagram
Hokusai & Ukiyo-e: The Floating World

Hokusai & Ukiyo-e: The Floating World

Cleve Carney Museum of Art

Explore the art and culture of Edo period Japan, including early Manga origins and the Cloissone collection.

Reddit
Amphitheater and Lake View

Amphitheater and Lake View

Outdoor Amphitheater

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the campus with views of the lake from the outdoor amphitheater.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to The MAC

The McAninch Arts Center (The MAC) hosts a variety of performances, exhibitions, and lectures. Check their official website for the most up-to-date event schedules and ticketing information. Consider booking tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, to secure your spot.

Parking and Accessibility

Ample parking is available on the College of DuPage campus, making it convenient to access The MAC. The venue is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to contact the box office directly if you have specific accessibility needs for performances or exhibits.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Catch live performances
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Explore exhibits
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique programming
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pop by the McAninch Arts Center for a one-of-a-kind Andy Warhol experience including colorful art, detailed history, and interactive exhibits. If you’ve been to the exhibit, comment your favorite part below! #discoverdupage #enjoyillinois #andywarhol #warholdupage #mcaninchartscenter #chicagoland #art #chicagolandart #visitchicagoland
discoverdupage
120 likes • 3.8K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Early

Popular shows and exhibits can sell out. Check the McAninch Arts Center website for tickets and schedules. Instagram

🖼️ Explore All Exhibits

The Warhol exhibition spans multiple spaces, including upstairs with Interview Magazines. Instagram

Enjoy the amphitheater and lake view from College of DuPage’s McAninch Arts Center. Join a wonderful community of creatives and grow by registering at cod.edu/academics/programs/graphic_design!
graphicdesigncod
13 likes • 552 views
The WARHOL Exhibition is making use of many spaces at the McAninch Arts Center! When you make your way upstairs to enjoy the Silver Clouds, you’ll also see a selection of 1970s & 80s Interview Magazines! Warhol founded Interview Magazine in 1969. The editions that will be on view will feature the covers as well as inside pages that give us a glimpse into New York during Warhol’s life. These are ...
atthemac
41 likes • 1.1K views

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

A nice courtyard and cafe are available, perfect for a pre-show or post-exhibit break. Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

Plenty of parking is available on the College of DuPage campus. Reddit

Andy Warhol exhibit at McAninch Arts Center on the campus of College of DuPage. #CODNow #COD #CollegeOfDuPage #College #DuPage #collegelife @collegeofdupage @atthemac #Warhol
codnow
18 likes • 210 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Early

Popular shows and exhibits can sell out. Check the McAninch Arts Center website for tickets and schedules. Instagram

🖼️ Explore All Exhibits

The Warhol exhibition spans multiple spaces, including upstairs with Interview Magazines. Instagram

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

A nice courtyard and cafe are available, perfect for a pre-show or post-exhibit break. Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

Plenty of parking is available on the College of DuPage campus. Reddit

💡 Learn Something New

Exhibits like Hokusai offer fascinating insights into art history and culture. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(815 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The McAninch Arts Center for its diverse and high-quality exhibitions and performances, with the Andy Warhol show receiving particular acclaim. The venue is noted for its professional staff, excellent facilities including a cafe and courtyard, and ample parking. Some visitors have expressed a desire for more frequent or varied programming beyond major exhibits.

"Went to the Hokusai & Ukiyo-e: The Floating World installation with the Cloissone collection from ITALY never before seen in the United States. Unforgettable experience, I went for my birthday with my partner, then went back with my best friend before it left mid-September because I had such a great time. The staff was super friendly and helpful. The immersion part of the exhibit that took you "back in time" to Hokusai's world was unexpected and very cool. We all absolutely loved it & will be keeping an eye out for future adventures here!"

Shannon Gibbons

"Hokusai & Ukiyo-e | The Floating World

We saw a series of wonderful exhibits about the art and culture of Edo period Japan. I learned how modern Manga art started in the early 1800s. I had no idea! What a great Museum, here on College of DuPage's campus. I highly recommend visiting."

Kathleen Duda

"Beautiful Hokusai exhibit. Professional and well staffed. Great facility, nice courtyard and cafe. Very pleased to experience the venue for this event."

Mark Spengler

What People Like

Engaging art exhibitions
Professional live performances
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Limited event variety at times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The McAninch Arts Center is located on the campus of College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on campus. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving College of DuPage. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of parking available on the College of DuPage campus, making it convenient for visitors to The MAC. Reddit

The McAninch Arts Center is located at 425 Fawell Blvd, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137, on the campus of College of DuPage.

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the College of DuPage campus, with designated drop-off points near the arts center.

While specific routes can vary, College of DuPage is served by public transportation. It's recommended to check the RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) website or local bus schedules for the most current information on routes and stops.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for performances and exhibitions at the McAninch Arts Center can typically be purchased online through their official website, by phone via the box office, or in person at the box office during operating hours. Instagram

Box office hours can vary, so it's best to check the official McAninch Arts Center website or call them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their operating hours.

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, depending on the event. It's advisable to inquire with the box office or check the event details on the website for any available discount information.

For some events, tickets may be available at the door, but it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular performances or exhibitions, as they can sell out. Instagram

Refund policies can vary by event and are typically outlined during the ticket purchasing process. It's best to review the specific terms and conditions provided by the McAninch Arts Center or the ticketing platform.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The McAninch Arts Center hosts a diverse range of events, including theater productions, concerts, dance performances, art exhibitions, lectures, and film screenings. InstagramReddit

Exhibitions change periodically. Currently, the Andy Warhol Exhibition is a major draw, and past popular exhibits have included Hokusai & Ukiyo-e. Check their website for the latest exhibition information. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, there is a cafe and concession area available, offering refreshments and snacks for visitors. Reddit

The McAninch Arts Center features a mainstage theater with various seating arrangements. For specific details, you can often find a seating chart on their website when purchasing tickets. Reddit

While not always advertised, inquire with the venue about potential guided tours for exhibitions or educational programs that might be offered in conjunction with performances or exhibits.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by event and exhibition. Generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted in public areas and for some exhibits, but flash photography and professional recording are usually prohibited to protect the artwork and not disturb performances. Always check signage or ask staff. Instagram

Yes, the outdoor amphitheater area with its lake view offers scenic photo opportunities. Instagram Inside, the exhibitions themselves, like the Andy Warhol show, provide visually striking backdrops for photos. Instagram

The amphitheater area overlooking the lake is a popular spot. For exhibition photos, the immersive elements and vibrant art pieces, like those in the Warhol exhibit, are excellent subjects. Instagram+1

Typically, phone cameras are allowed for personal use, but always be mindful of flash usage and any specific restrictions posted for exhibits or performances. Instagram

Videography is generally not permitted during performances or within exhibitions without explicit permission, as it can be disruptive and infringe on copyright. Check with venue staff for specific guidelines.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The McAninch Arts Center offers engaging experiences for families. While major exhibitions like Andy Warhol might appeal more to older children and adults, the venue also hosts performances that are family-friendly. Keep an eye on their schedule for specific children's theater or dance productions. Instagram

Look for events that include interactive elements or are specifically designed for younger audiences. The accessible parking and on-site cafe make a family outing more convenient. Reddit Consider attending free film screenings which can be a relaxed way to introduce kids to the arts. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, The MAC is a must-visit, especially for its major exhibitions. The Andy Warhol show, with its extensive collection and immersive elements, is a significant draw. Instagram+3 Past exhibitions like Hokusai & Ukiyo-e have also been highly praised for their depth and educational value. Reddit

Beyond the main exhibits, explore the Cleve Carney Museum of Art's programming for a diverse range of artistic expressions. The venue's commitment to showcasing both iconic and lesser-known art forms ensures a rich experience for seasoned art aficionados. Reddit

🎭 Performing Arts Aficionados

The McAninch Arts Center is a premier destination for live performances. From professional theater to captivating dance and musical acts, there's a consistent offering of high-caliber shows. Instagram Check the schedule for upcoming plays, concerts, and ballets to plan your visit. Instagram

Consider attending a performance in the intimate Black Box Theater for a more unique experience, or opt for a grander production on the Mainstage. The venue's association with College of DuPage also means opportunities to see emerging talent. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Andy Warhol Exhibition Experience

The McAninch Arts Center, in collaboration with the Cleve Carney Museum of Art, has hosted significant exhibitions, most notably the extensive Andy Warhol exhibition. This multifaceted show encompassed over 11,000 square feet, featuring more than 200 of Warhol's original works. Visitors could explore his life through various mediums, including original photographs and portfolios from the Bank of America Collection. Instagram+1

The exhibition wasn't just about viewing art; it aimed for an immersive experience. This included interactive exhibits and recreations, allowing attendees to step into Warhol's world. A notable feature was the display of 1970s & 80s Interview Magazines, which Warhol founded, offering a glimpse into his broader cultural impact beyond just visual art. Instagram The exhibition's success and scale made it a major draw for art enthusiasts in the Chicagoland area. Instagram+1

This type of large-scale exhibition highlights The MAC's commitment to bringing significant cultural events to the community. It demonstrates their capability to host complex installations and attract renowned artists, solidifying their role as a key arts venue. The positive reception and repeat visits from patrons underscore the quality and engaging nature of these curated experiences. Reddit

Live Performances at The MAC

Beyond visual arts, the McAninch Arts Center is a vibrant hub for live performances. Its venues, including the Mainstage Theater and Black Box Theater, host a diverse array of events. Audiences can expect professional theater productions, captivating musical concerts, and dynamic dance performances from both touring companies and local talent. Instagram

The Salt Creek Ballet's performances, such as their rendition of Swan Lake, are a testament to the quality of dance productions showcased at The MAC. Instagram The venue's programming aims to cater to a wide range of artistic tastes, offering everything from classical music to contemporary drama. The intimate setting of the Black Box Theater often provides a unique and engaging experience for smaller productions. Reddit

These live events contribute significantly to the cultural landscape of the region, providing accessible and high-quality artistic experiences. The consistent schedule of performances ensures there's always something new to discover, making The MAC a go-to destination for performing arts enthusiasts. Reddit

Community and Educational Engagement

The McAninch Arts Center, situated on the College of DuPage campus, plays a crucial role in community engagement and education. The venue frequently offers free films in its auditorium, fostering a welcoming environment for the public to enjoy cinematic arts. Reddit

Discussions often follow these film screenings, encouraging dialogue and deeper understanding of the presented works. This educational component extends to their exhibitions, where visitors can learn about art history, cultural movements, and artistic techniques, as seen with the Hokusai and Warhol exhibits. InstagramReddit

By integrating arts and culture with educational opportunities, The MAC serves as more than just an entertainment venue; it's a place for learning, discussion, and community building, making the arts accessible to a broad audience. Reddit

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