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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THU. JAN. 15, 7:00 P.M.
Chicago Urban History Seminar | Dr. Emiliano Aguilar

Dr. Emiliano Aguilar of the University of Notre Dame presents “‘The Machiavelli of the Mexican American People’: Robert Segovia, Machine Politics, and Building Political Power in East Chicago, Indiana.”

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MON. JAN. 19, 10:00 AM
Martin Luther King Jr. Day

At this family-focused celebration of Dr. King’s ongoing influence on the fight for civil rights, enjoy hands-on activities and learn how to become more civically engaged in your community. Learn more

RESERVE TICKETS
View of the Chicago Fire of 1871 at night under full moon, Chicago, Illinois.
SUN. JAN. 25, 11:30 A.M.
This Too Shall Burn: America in the Age of Wood

The Guild of the Chicago History Museum invites you to a talk, This Too Shall Burn: America in the Age of Wood, by Northwestern University professor Daniel Immerwahr. Learn more

Rebekah Coffman
WED. JAN. 28, 10:00 A.M.
Member Event | Coffee with a Curator

Members are invited to enjoy coffee and conversation with Rebekah Coffman, Curator of Religion and Community History! Learn more

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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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