The Abakanowicz Research Center requires visitors to wear masks. We thank you in advance for helping us maintain a safe environment for staff and visitors. Learn more about the Museum’s safety policies and procedures. 
Welcome to the Abakanowicz Research Center
Spring Hours (January 3–May 27): Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 12:00–3:30 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00–4:30 p.m.
The Abakanowicz Research Center (ARC) holds the printed material, archives and manuscripts, prints and photographs, architectural drawings, and assorted ephemera of the Chicago History Museum. Explore our Research Collections.
ARC capacity is limited to eight (8) people per day (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday). Capacity limits do not apply to Saturday hours, so no reservations required that day. To best serve patrons, we will make reservations available one month at a time. Time slots will be made available the week before the start of a new month. Reservations need to be received at least 48 hours in advance and only one admission can be reserved per order. We encourage you to email research@chicagohistory.org before making a reservation to ensure that an on-site visit is best for your needs. Researchers who have not been able to make their reservation 48 hours in advance are encouraged to email research@chicagohistory.org to see if they can be accommodated.
Please present a valid driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or passport at the Ticket Desk when you arrive
Make a Reservation
Upon successfully registering, you will receive an email confirmation for your selected date. All ARC visitors MUST have this confirmation in order to enter.
Admission
Free. Visitors to the Abakanowicz Research Center are asked to register in advance. We encourage you to email research@chicagohistory.org before making a reservation to ensure that an on-site visit is best for your needs.
Upon successfully registering, you will receive an email confirmation with an order number, which all ARC visitors MUST have in order to enter.
Upon arrival, visitors will be asked to present a valid driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or passport at the Ticket Desk and check coats, backpacks, and oversized bags in the Museum’s free coat check. The ARC has free lockers available for purses. Children under 6 will not be admitted.
Quick Links
Guide to the Abakanowicz Research Center
An in-depth guide to the Chicago History Museum’s Abakanowicz Research Center, including hours, access, policies, subject guides, and other useful resources.
Search ARCHIE for information on the Museum’s holdings that are served through the ARC. Materials described in ARCHIE include manuscripts; books and periodicals; and photographic materials. Please note that while this resource is extensive, it is not exhaustive.
Frequently Asked Questions
