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Chicago History Minute

In February of 2003, Mayor Richard M. Daley was reelected to his fifth consecutive term. This was also Chicago's second ever nonpartisan mayoral election.
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Exhibition Tours

Self-Guided Exhibition Tours

Crossroads entrance

Stroll through the galleries at your own pace on a self-guided tour. Experience the city's greatest triumphs and trials in the Museum's permanent exhibitions, Chicago: Crossroads of America and Facing Freedom. Get a bird's eye view of Chicago's transformation in the Imagining Chicago Diorama Hall. Celebrate the grandeur of Chicago's world fairs through Chicago Treasures installations throughout the Museum.

Discover the city's rich history through temporary exhibitions. Please schedule self-guided tours two to three weeks in advance. Audio tours of Chicago: Crossroads of America are available for an additional $2 per person.

Cost: $11 for adults; $9 for seniors and students
Time: 2-4 hours
Group Size: 10 to 100

> Learn more about current and upcoming exhibitions

History Scavenger Hunt

How much do you know about Chicago? Test your knowledge with a scavenger hunt in the Museum. The hunt is great as a team-building activity or just a fun way to experience history.

Cost: $2 per person in additional to the self-guided tour fee.

Guided Exhibition Tours

Pioneer train engine and 'L' car no. 1

The Museum offers guided tours of several permanent and temporary exhibitions to help you make the most of your visit. Your visit includes a tour led by a trained docent in the gallery of your choice. Please schedule four to six weeks in advance.

Cost: $14 for adults; $13 for seniors and students
Time: 50–60 minutes
Group Size: 10 to 50

Highlights of Chicago

'L' car no. 1 platform Discover Chicago's transformation from a smelly swamp to a thriving metropolis touring highlights of our permanent exhibition, Chicago: Crossroads of America. Experience the city's greatest triumphs and trials. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the past as you climb aboard ‘L' Car No. 1. Feel history come alive as you explore innovations in fashion, entertainment, and architecture. Discover how the city changed with each crisis—from the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 to the riots of 1968. Celebrate the city's love affair with its sports teams.

> Learn more about Crossroads 

Chicago's World's Fairs

Experience the grandeur from the magnificent White City of 1893 to the rainbow-colored oasis created in 1933. 

Curator's Behind the Scenes

Hear the curator's personal insight on their vision and development of an exhibition. Minimum 10 people; maximum varies with gallery capacity. 

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