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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.

Chicago History Museum Admission

Highlights

Discover Chicago’s development and its historical influence on the United States.

View a vast collection of artifacts including original Fort Dearborn pieces and Chicago’s first locomotive.

Interactive exhibitions designed for visitors of all ages, especially engaging for younger guests.

Enjoy immersive presentations like the film depicting the Great Chicago Fire and other key city events.

Access both permanent and rotating exhibitions showcasing diverse stories and items from Chicago’s past.

Chicago All-Inclusive Pass: 30+ Attractions including Shedd Aquarium

Highlights

Enjoy digital entry to numerous Chicago landmarks.

Access over 25 attractions on 1, 2, or 3 non-consecutive days.

Receive a digital guidebook to enhance your visit.

Ideal for exploring the city’s iconic sites like Chicago History Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Willis Tower.

Convenient mobile access via the Go City app.

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.

FAQs about Chicago History Museum Timings

What are the Chicago History Museum’s regular hours?

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Is the museum open on Mondays?

The museum is generally closed on Mondays, except for select holidays and commemorative days.

What time does the North & Clark Café close?

The café closes approximately 1 hour before the museum’s closing time.

Are there special hours for holidays?

Yes, the museum has adjusted hours on holidays such as New Year’s Eve, Christmas Eve, and Thanksgiving Eve, typically closing earlier.

Is the museum open on major holidays?

The museum is closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.