Chicago History Museum
Explore Chicago's dynamic past through captivating exhibits, from its founding to modern-day evolution. Interactive displays bring history to life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Chicago History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Chicago's dynamic past through captivating exhibits, from its founding to modern-day evolution. Interactive displays bring history to life.
"An excellent museum with amazing insights into Chicago's past and present."
🎯 Look for Groupon Deals
Save on admission by checking Groupon before you go.
🧥 Free Coat & Bag Check
Keep your belongings secure and hands-free while you explore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chicago Fashion Exhibition
Fashionable Chicago
Explore Chicago's style evolution through captivating displays of clothing and accessories across different eras.
Great Chicago Fire Exhibit
Chicago Fire
Relive the dramatic events of the Great Chicago Fire through vivid storytelling and historical artifacts.
Abraham Lincoln in Chicago
Abraham Lincoln
Discover the deep connection between Abraham Lincoln and the city of Chicago through compelling exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
+1Ticket Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Look for Groupon Deals
Save on admission by checking Groupon before you go.
🧥 Free Coat & Bag Check
Keep your belongings secure and hands-free while you explore.
🅿️ Discounted Parking
Park at 1730 N Stockton and get your ticket validated for $10 all-day parking.
🚶♀️ Stroll Lincoln Park
Enjoy a post-museum walk in the beautiful Lincoln Park nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Look for Groupon Deals
Save on admission by checking Groupon before you go.
🧥 Free Coat & Bag Check
Keep your belongings secure and hands-free while you explore.
🅿️ Discounted Parking
Park at 1730 N Stockton and get your ticket validated for $10 all-day parking.
🚶♀️ Stroll Lincoln Park
Enjoy a post-museum walk in the beautiful Lincoln Park nearby.
📸 Interactive Exhibits
Engage with history through fun, photo-friendly displays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Chicago History Museum for its engaging and interactive exhibits that bring the city's past to life. The fashion and Great Chicago Fire exhibits are frequently highlighted as favorites. While some sections might be closed occasionally, the overall experience is considered informative and fun for all ages, with helpful amenities like free coat check and discounted parking enhancing the visit.
"This is a great museum to explore Chicago's amazing history! There are not extensive collections to see but rather art mixed with story boards making it more fun, informative and engaging! I loved the fashion exhibition! It was a nice mix of fashion throughout the ages! I also enjoyed that we could have fun taking pictures at the exhibits making it fun and interactive for the viewer!!"
Nancie Balun
"An easy 5-stars. This is an excellent museum with amazing insights into Chicago past and present. From a home to the indigenous to a fur trading post for the French, British and then American, and then literally a key crossroads for the USA. The exhibits are well laid out and marked. There are a couple free hour long guided tours available for free, check local timings.
Tickets are cheaper on Groupon so consider getting it there.
Free bag / coat check to keep all your backpacks.
A nice cafe on site. A gift store as well (was closed for maintenance the day we went).
Parking is at 1730 N Stockton, bring your parking ticket for validation for $10 all day parking!
PS: Disappointed that on the day we visited, the American History Wing was with a couple of nice exhibit sections were closed to the public. The Museum Store was interesting but was closed for maintenance that day as well."
Venkat Chandramoleshwar
"The Chicago History Museum offers a fascinating and comprehensive glimpse into the rich tapestry of Chicago’s past. Located in the heart of Lincoln Park, the museum boasts an impressive collection of exhibits that span from the city’s founding days to its modern-day evolution.
One of the highlights is the interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages, making history both accessible and entertaining. The museum’s extensive collection includes historical photographs, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that vividly bring Chicago’s stories to life. Notable displays include exhibits on the Great Chicago Fire, the city’s architectural marvels, and its diverse immigrant communities.
The museum’s architecture itself is worth a visit, with its historic building adding to the sense of stepping back in time. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, often providing insightful commentary or assistance.
For those interested in Chicago’s history, culture, or architecture, this museum is a must-visit. It’s an educational and inspiring experience that deepens your appreciation for the city’s resilience and innovation."
luis alvarado
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chicago History Museum is located at 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614. It's easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus lines stopping nearby. If you're driving, there's a parking garage at 1730 N Stockton, and you can get your ticket validated for $10 all-day parking.
Yes, there is a parking garage at 1730 N Stockton. Bring your parking ticket for validation to get $10 all-day parking.
The Red Line (Clark/Division station) and the Brown Line (Sedgwick station) are the closest 'L' train stops, both requiring a short walk or bus ride to reach the museum.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach the museum, with designated drop-off points.
The museum is committed to accessibility and offers features such as elevators, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair availability. It's recommended to contact them directly for specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's recommended to check for discounts on platforms like Groupon. Some days offer free admission for Illinois residents.
Yes, the museum often has free admission days, particularly for Illinois residents. Check their website or local event listings for specific dates.
The museum is typically open Tuesday through Saturday. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for free admission days or during peak seasons, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Yes, the museum sometimes offers free hour-long guided tours. Check the local timings upon arrival for availability.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the captivating fashion exhibition, the immersive Great Chicago Fire exhibit, and the insightful displays on Abraham Lincoln's connection to the city.
Yes, the museum is very kid-friendly with interactive exhibits that make learning fun and engaging for all ages.
Yes, many exhibits are interactive and encourage photos, making it a fun and memorable experience.
Take advantage of the interactive exhibits and consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into Chicago's rich history.
The museum frequently updates its exhibitions. It's advisable to check their official website for current and upcoming special exhibitions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site offering refreshments and light meals for visitors.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, the on-site cafe provides dining options.
The museum is located in Lincoln Park, an area with numerous dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can easily find a place to eat before or after your visit.
The cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages suitable for a museum visit.
Yes, there is a gift store that sells books, souvenirs, and items related to Chicago's history.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, and many exhibits are designed to be interactive and photo-friendly. However, flash photography and tripods may be restricted.
Look for the interactive displays and dioramas that bring Chicago's past to life. The fashion exhibits also offer visually appealing backdrops.
While personal photography is usually permitted, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage regarding flash or professional photography restrictions within certain exhibits.
Yes, phone cameras are perfectly fine for capturing memories and sharing your experience.
You can find many photos on Instagram by searching hashtags like #ChicagoHistoryMuseum and #ChiTownHistory, or on TikTok using #ChicagoHistory.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. The museum also offers a free coat and bag check, which is incredibly helpful when wrangling little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1While there's a cafe on-site, you can save money by packing your own snacks or enjoying a meal at one of the many affordable eateries in the surrounding Lincoln Park neighborhood. The free coat and bag check also means you don't need to worry about paying for locker services.
📚 History Enthusiasts
Consider joining one of the free guided tours offered by the museum to gain deeper insights and context from knowledgeable docents.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Chicago's Rich Past
Visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of artifacts, photographs, newsreels, and dioramas that bring historical events and figures to life. The exhibits are designed to be engaging and informative, offering insights into Chicago's architecture, its role in American history, and the diverse communities that have shaped its identity.
Whether you're a history buff or just curious about what makes Chicago tick, the museum provides a comprehensive and accessible journey through time. It's a place where you can learn about everything from the city's early days as a fur trading post to its status as a hub of innovation and culture.
Interactive Exhibits and Family Fun
Many exhibits are designed with families in mind, offering hands-on activities and visually stimulating displays that capture children's attention. The museum encourages visitors to not just observe but to participate, making it a memorable experience for younger guests.
From exploring the impact of the Great Chicago Fire to delving into the city's vibrant fashion scene, the interactive nature of the exhibits ensures that everyone, from toddlers to adults, can find something to spark their curiosity and learn something new about Chicago.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips and Tricks
Upon arrival, take advantage of the free coat and bag check to keep your hands free as you explore the exhibits.
Finally, the museum is conveniently located in Lincoln Park, making it easy to combine your visit with a pleasant stroll through the park afterwards, especially on a nice day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit