Chicago History Museum – Opening Hours
Chicago History Museum – Timings
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.
Holiday Hours
The museum observes adjusted hours during certain holidays:
New Year’s Eve: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Fourth of July: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Thanksgiving Eve: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Christmas Eve: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
The Museum is closed on:
New Year’s Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas
Abakanowicz Research Center Hours
Tuesday – Friday: 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Saturday – Monday: Closed
Admission to the ARC is free. Reservations are not required. Children under 6 are not allowed.
Visitors planning their visit to the Chicago History Museum should allot approximately two to three hours to fully experience the key exhibits and features of the venue.
Exploring the expansive “Chicago: Crossroads of America” exhibit alone may take about an hour, as it offers detailed insights into the city’s development and its national significance. Additional time should be set aside for the “Facing Freedom” exhibition, the Abraham Lincoln alcoves, and the engaging “Sensing Chicago” child-friendly exhibit.
For those interested in viewing special artifacts or visiting the Abakanowicz Research Center’s archives, allocating extra time is recommended.
Tourists may also want to enjoy a break at the museum’s café or browse the museum store, which could extend the visit. Overall, scheduling a half-day visit provides sufficient time to experience the museum’s offerings without rushing, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience of Chicago’s rich history.