Welcome to the Chicago History Museum

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CHM?

Explore the city with our expert guides, delve into our exhibitions through thematic programs, or discover Chicago history through family-friendly activities.

US at 250: Civic Action in Chicago

Lobby installations, new and updated exhibitions, and programming throughout 2026

On the 250th anniversary of our nation’s Declaration of Independence, we’re asking questions about our nation’s democracy in progress.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

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MON. FEB. 16, 10:00 A.M.
Commemorative Day | Presidents’ Day

This Presidents’ Day, get more civically engaged through family-friendly activities! Learn more

RESERVE TICKETS
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SAT. FEB. 21, 12:30 P.M.
Dave Truitt Film Series – “Phunny Business: A Black Comedy”

Join us for a free screening of Phunny Business: A Black Comedy, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Jeanne Sparrow featuring John Davies, Raymond Lambert, and Knowledge Beckom. Learn more

RSVP
Designing for Change
SAT. FEB. 28, 11:00 A.M.
Commemorative Day | Black History Month

Celebrate Black History Month at CHM as we look at the ways art has been a vehicle for social change in Chicago’s African American community. Learn more

RESERVE TICKETS
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THU. MAR. 5, 2:00 P.M.
Member Event | Conservation Chat

CHM members are invited to an exclusive talk with Julie Benner, assistant conservator for costume and textiles, and Michael Hall, costume mount maker, about Museum conservation projects and industry practices. Learn more

RSVP
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TUE. MAR. 10, 5:00 P.M.
The Guild Presents | Women of “Aquí en Chicago”

Presented in partnership with the International Woman’s Forum, the Guild of the Chicago History Museum invites you to an exclusive program with CHM curator of civic engagement and social justice Elena Gonzales discussing the remarkable women featured in Aquí en Chicago. Learn more

BUY TICKETS
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LEARN AND CONNECT WITH CHM

CHM strives to be a destination for learning, inspiration and civic engagement. Through dynamic exhibitions, tours, programs, digital resources, and special events, the Museum connects people to Chicago’s history and to each other.

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23 Mil
Objects in our collections
27,000+
Students visit the museum each year
Color photograph of approximately one hundred runners on a city street with the Chicago skyline in the background.

ABAKANOWICZ RESEARCH CENTER

Home to the Chicago History Museum’s archives, manuscripts, photographs, and more, the Abakanowicz Research Center (ARC) is one of the premier research facilities in Chicago. With free admission, the ARC helps fulfill the Museum’s mission to be a destination for learning and to connect people to Chicago’s history. We look forward to welcoming you!

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Support the Museum

SUPPORT OUR MISSION BY BECOMING A MEMBER

Membership offers ways to engage with others who love the city of Chicago and its history and opportunities to interact with our award-winning staff. Enjoy free admission, behind-the-scenes experiences, special discounts, and more!

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