Chicago History Museum: Tickets and Info

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Chicago History Museum Admission

Highlights

Discover permanent and special exhibits highlighting Chicago’s milestones.

See authentic artifacts including parts of Fort Dearborn and the city’s first locomotive.

Experience immersive displays designed for all ages, including interactive sensory exhibits.

Watch a dynamic film portraying key moments such as the Great Chicago Fire and the World’s Columbian Exposition.

Enjoy a comprehensive perspective on Chicago’s influence within American history.

About Chicago History Museum

Situated in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, the Chicago History Museum serves as a vital center for preserving and interpreting the rich narrative of Chicago and its wider historical influence.

Established under the Chicago Historical Society in 1856, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive journey through nearly two centuries of local and American history.

With extensive collections, dynamic exhibitions, and educational programs, it provides an engaging environment for learning and civic engagement. The museum's blend of traditional displays and innovative digital resources makes it a compelling destination for international tourists seeking to understand Chicago's unique cultural and historical landscape.

Address: 1601 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614 (Old Town Triangle, Lincoln Park)
Founded: April 1856 (as Chicago Historical Society)
Collection Size: Approximately 23 million objects, images and documents

Timings

General Hours
Holiday Hours

The Chicago History Museum is open throughout the week with the following hours:
Monday: Closed*
Tuesday - Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

*The museum is open on select Mondays and special commemorative days. The North & Clark Café closes approximately 1 hour before the museum's closing time.

Why Visit Chicago History Museum?

Chicago: Crossroads of America: This expansive 16,000-square-foot exhibit offers an immersive view of Chicago’s growth and pivotal role in shaping American history. Visitors can explore nearly 600 artifacts spanning over two centuries, gaining insights into the city’s economic, cultural, and social development.

Abraham Lincoln Alcoves and Portrait Gallery: Dedicated spaces within the museum highlight crucial moments of Abraham Lincoln’s life, including his election, leadership, and assassination. Nearby, the Portrait Gallery vividly portrays Chicago during Lincoln’s era, providing a contextual backdrop to his enduring legacy.

Tawani Foundation Diorama Hall: The diorama hall features meticulously restored scenes that chronicle Chicago’s transformation from a humble frontier settlement to the site of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. These detailed dioramas offer a visual narrative of key periods in the city’s past.

Historic Artifacts Collection: Visitors can view some of the most significant artifacts related to American history, such as Abraham Lincoln’s assassination attire, the deathbed furniture from the Petersen House, and the table where Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant in 1865, connecting guests directly to these pivotal moments.

L Car #1 and Pioneer Locomotive: The museum proudly displays Chicago’s first elevated train car, L Car #1, dating back to 1893, alongside "Pioneer," the city’s earliest locomotive. These transportation artifacts highlight Chicago’s role in the evolution of urban transit systems.

How Do I Get There?

Address
Directions

The Chicago History Museum is located at:

1601 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614

Situated in the Old Town Triangle neighborhood within Lincoln Park, this central location makes the museum easily accessible for visitors.

Accessibility Facilities at Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. For those who are visually impaired, the museum offers tactile exhibits and descriptive audio guides that help bring the displays to life through detailed narration and touchable elements. Visitors can request these accommodations at the admissions desk or in advance when purchasing tickets online to ensure availability during their visit.

Visitors with mobility challenges will find the museum equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms to facilitate easy navigation throughout the facility. Wheelchairs are available upon request at the entrance, and staff members are readily available to provide assistance. It is recommended to inform the museum ahead of a visit to arrange any specific support needed for a comfortable experience.

For guests who are hearing impaired, the museum provides assistive listening devices for guided tours and select presentations to ensure clear communication. Additionally, some exhibitions include captioned videos and written transcripts. Visitors can reserve these devices when buying tickets online or inquire at the welcome desk to access hearing assistance services during their visit.

Interesting Facts about the Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum was founded in 1856, making it one of the oldest institutions dedicated to preserving Chicago’s history.

The museum’s original collection was heavily damaged during the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and another fire in 1874.

Abraham Lincoln’s final draft of the Emancipation Proclamation was lost in the Great Chicago Fire.

The museum houses Abraham Lincoln’s actual assassination clothes and the furniture from his deathbed.

It holds the historic table where Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant in 1865, marking the end of the Civil War.

Chicago’s first elevated train car from 1893, known as L Car #1, is restored and displayed at the museum.

The Tawani Foundation Diorama Hall features restored dioramas showcasing Chicago’s transformation up to the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.

The museum moved into its current Lincoln Park building, designed by Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, in 1932.

The Abakanowicz Research Center offers free admission and contains extensive archives and photographs.

In 2010, the museum was inducted into the Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame for its contributions to the community.

In 2013, the museum launched what the American Alliance of Museums recognized as the first crowdsourced exhibition project at a U.S. museum, letting the public vote to decide the show's topic.

It annually honors Chicagoans and organizations with the Making History Awards for notable contributions to the city.

FAQs about the Chicago History Museum

What is the Chicago History Museum?

The Chicago History Museum is a museum and research center dedicated to preserving and interpreting Chicago’s rich history.

Where is the Chicago History Museum located?

It is located at 1601 North Clark Street in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago.

When was the Chicago Historical Society founded?

The society was founded in April 1856 and later adopted the public name Chicago History Museum in 2006.

What exhibits can I see at the museum?

Highlights include "Chicago: Crossroads of America," "Facing Freedom," and the child-friendly "Sensing Chicago."

Is the Abakanowicz Research Center open to the public?

Yes, it is open to all visitors and offers free admission to its archives and collections.

What notable artifacts are on display?

The museum features Abraham Lincoln’s assassination clothes, the Appomattox surrender table, and Chicago’s first ‘L’ passenger car.

Are guided tours available at the Chicago History Museum?

Yes, the museum offers various tours including specialized walking tours around Chicago’s historical sites.

Can I visit the museum with children?

Absolutely; there are family-friendly exhibits and educational programs designed for young visitors.

What are the museum’s opening hours?

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. It’s closed Mondays, aside from a few select holidays.

Is there a place to eat at the museum?

Yes, there is a public café available within the 1988 addition to the museum.

Does the museum have a gift shop?

Yes, visitors can explore the museum store for Chicago-themed souvenirs and books.

Can I rent spaces at the museum for events?

The Chicago Room is an event rental space overlooking Lincoln Park plaza available for private functions.

How accessible is the museum by public transportation?

The museum is accessible via multiple bus lines and nearby Chicago ‘L’ stations including Clark/Division and Sedgwick.

Does the museum offer any digital resources?

Yes, digital archives, mobile apps, and online exhibitions are available for deeper exploration of Chicago history.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?

Photography policies vary by exhibit, so visitors should check guidelines on-site.

Are the museum’s exhibits permanent or temporary?

The museum offers a mix of permanent collections and rotating special exhibitions and programs.

Is the museum involved in educational outreach?

Yes, they provide educational programs, field trips, and classroom resources for students and teachers.

Does the museum participate in community awards?

Yes, it annually presents the Making History Awards recognizing significant contributions by Chicagoans and organizations.

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