Very entertaining and educational! It isn't just about Chicago history. It also has some U.S. history as well! If you are a true historian and just love learning about facts you didn't know before, then this is the place to go! If you want to travel back in time, then this place is also the way to go! Take advantage of those free days for Illinois residents! The staff are very friendly and welcoming. The museum is very clean. Before visiting the museum for the first time, I thought it was just going to be old Chicago history like 19th and 20th century. But, I was surprised to see some 21st century history that isn't so much far back! That is so cool that they try to include as much history as possible. The most fun part of my museum experience was learning about the Chicago Fire. You learn to humble yourself a bit and really look at what's truly important. You get to see old letters of those who survived the Chicago fire! Amazing!

When you search on Google on things to do/visit in Chicago, then this museum tops the list. I was fortunate enough to visit this museum and explore every single bit of it. I'm and was never a museum person but visiting this museum made me realise the importance of such places. This museum taught me about the history of Chicago great fire, Chicago famous jazz clubs, the Chinese community living in Chicago, importance of Chicago as a the financial hub of 🇺🇲 and many other things. This museum is more than a museum for sure. Loved the neon signs placed inside the museum near the reception. I was super happy by the time I was done. I would recommend every single traveler to experience this museum. The cost if entry ticket was minimal.

Went there for one of the free entry summer days. Would definitely recommend allowing yourself 2 to 3 hours to see everything inside. They have interesting exhibits mostly about Chicago and the history of the city but also a little bit about the state of Illinois. It is very well organized and entertaining. Parking is a little bit of a struggle so plan ahead or at least plan some time to find parking. The only downside was that the don't go in much detail about the historical events and mainly concentrate on big names.

The Chicago History Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of this great American city. Even on a cold, rainy afternoon, the museum offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, filled with fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and knowledgeable staff. From the moment you step inside, you'll be transported back in time to the early days of Chicago's founding and growth as a major industrial hub. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and expertly presented, allowing visitors to explore the city's rich history in a variety of engaging ways. Whether you're interested in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the city's role in the Civil Rights movement, or the rise of Chicago's many famous politicians, you'll find something to pique your interest at the Chicago History Museum. The museum's collections are vast and varied, encompassing everything from ancient artifacts to modern multimedia installations. I particularly enjoyed a room dedicated to Chicago's metamorphosis in high-rise architecture. What's more, the museum is staffed by a team of friendly and knowledgeable experts who are always happy to answer questions, provide context, and share their passion for the city's fascinating history. Make sure you take the time to meet Michael at the reception desk, he is wonderfully friendly and clearly the "face" of the museum. Whether you're a lifelong resident of Chicago or just visiting for the first time, you'll come away from the museum with a newfound appreciation for the city's rich and diverse heritage. Overall, I highly recommend spending a cold, rainy afternoon at the Chicago History Museum. Or even a warm, wonderful, perfect-weather morning! It's an experience that is both educational and entertaining, and one that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. So don't let a little bad weather keep you cooped up indoors – head to the museum and discover the history of this incredible city for yourself!

If you love my hometown Chicago like I do, this museum is a must see. I learn more about this city every time I visit. I became a member a few years ago. Mainly so I could attend the special exhibit openings each year. The museum is housed in a historic building in Lincoln Park, in a lush park setting. I recommend that you visit the website to plan your visit, so you're sure to make time for the most important attractions. Most of the museum's exhibits are not interactive, so not a lot of appeal for little kids. But there's a special area set aside just for them, with activity based learning. Ample discount parking a few blocks away in Lincoln Park. And a terrific store and cafe that are much better than you'll find at most museums this size.

Well designed, top quality exhibits of Chicago history. We spent a little under 3 hours and that was about right to see everything. Parking is nearby and plentiful for us on a Saturday afternoon. I've been looking into family genealogy so having dates, addresses, and occupations of my grand parents and great grandparents, et. al. in the forefront of my mind I tried to imagine their life in the historical context of events displayed at the museum. I was fascinated; however, I don't think this is a good time for kids. This is an adult oriented museum with a wealth and breadth of Chicago history.

We had some time to kill with friends and decided to visit on a whim. The museum is good to keep you busy for a couple of hours. The exhibitions are quite interesting and they have lots of artifacts and photos to see, but I thought they were organized a bit chaotically (at least I couldn't understand the logic). Definitely worth a visit for history buffs, but I wouldn't put it in the "must see" attraction in Chicago.

I enjoy the Vivian Maier: in color special exhibition in the museum. In addition to the fact that most of the color photos are not on display, the explanations next to the photos also analyze the psychological activities of the characters when the photos were taken, which is very interesting.

I don't understand why this museum has such a high rating. I suppose if you know 0 about Chicago you could go in here. Take the city architecture cruise for $10 more and learn more about the city as you cruise the Chicago River. This place is a skip. You can learn more history by walking around and talking to locals. This is not a good city history museum.

I liked the museum overall, you can learn a lot about the history of Chicago. There are great pictures and the movie show you can watch. Great expositions of Vivian Maier photos, civil rights, if fire in Chicago and sports. However, I would wait for a free admission day rather then pay $19.

If you want to know about the history of Chicago, the Chicago History Museum is the place to go. Great exhibits with amazing details about the City of Big Shoulders. Visit and drink in the incredible story of Chicago and its people's.

The 1871 Chicago fire exhibition is fabulous! I really love the 2D cartoons and the music. It is the first time I learn the history of the city systematically.

Beautiful place, informative and interesting. Adorable cafe with yummy baked good but actual food options also (sandwiches, soup). Large gift shop. An excellent way to spend a snowy day!

The Chicago History Museum is a bit of a hidden gem that I'd never heard of despite living less than an hour away. There are many exhibits and artifacts on Chicago specific topics, including the Chicago fire, architecture, world fairs, stock yards, railway systems, and so much more. The volunteers were very knowledge about the exhibits, and I strongly recommend a visit to this museum, especially if you have a connection to Chicago.

Went with my family. Did receive a military free entry. There are also other discounts you can qualify for check the website. The museum is good to keep you busy for a couple of hours. They have a great Chicago fire exhibition. There are lots of artifacts and photos to see but i feel like the museum is missing a bit of more modern history and photos. They do have a cafe to buy food, snack machines, and shop where you can buy souvenirs. Oh and there isnt a parking lot i saw associated with the museum so i had to park on the street. Overall i thought it was worth seeing but it will only keep you busy a couple of hours.

A wonderful way to spend a couple hours. The exhibits were informative but also immersive, and very tasteful and thoughtful. I would definitely come again!

A really fascinating museum to visit! I would still recommend The Field or the Museum of Science and Industry first, but this is great if you're looking for something other than the main ones down south. Got a Groupon which was nice. It's way bigger than it seems and it's full of really interesting displays and information.

It is located near Lincoln park zoo, and linked to public transport. The museum has got the full history about Chicago cultur, people etc. It can be fun with the family my daughter liked it very much. It has a wing regarding President Abraham Lincoln. Over all nice place to be.

This museum provides a wide variety of experiences for all age groups. There are 2 levels, everything is accessible and clean, and multiple restrooms are clearly marked. Staff is friendly & helpful. Several exhibits detail Chicago history from its origins to modern times. Tragedies include Haymarket, the Great Chicago Fire, the Eastland Disaster, etc. Exhibits run from the first train in Chicago, a first printing Declaration of Independence, and a flag attributed to Betsy Ross. An old wooden train car, the first to operate on the Chicago "L", dates from 1893. The Dioramas are interesting but most are too dark. It's amazing to see the various inventions & technologies created by locals, from Motorola's first cell phone to Sears Mail Order catalog. Most exhibits are labelled in English & Spanish. I loved the Jazz Room. There's a nice cafe to catch a real Chicago hotdog, too. Don't miss the old stockyards archway while there. My few quibbles: entry door is poorly marked, parking is street or fairly distant, price is a little steep. I would love to see an info sign for the L car (I had to look it up online) & the use of QR codes to access more info about exhibits online while you're there.

The Chicago History Museum is a must see place for both adults and children. My son loved 2D cartoons and music. All of the exhibits are very well organized and maintained. We also checked out all of the individual stores and they were all fabulous.

Have been so many times in chicago and never been here untill today.pitty. it is a great very well documented and interesting to visit . Not heavy , nor needed too much time. Absolutely recommanded . Be carefull , closed on mondays !!!!!! Could be a good lesson to many hotels and restaurants how to hold clean restrooms..... Bravo !!!

I had a wonderful experience at the museum, the content, objects and stories were exhibited and delivered so well. I'm not particularly a history buff and knew very little about the city but the museum made me keen to learn more. It is definitely one of the better quality history museums I have been to with a focus on both the historic past and the relevant present issues of this complex city. The highlight was that I was lucky enough to join a guided tour on Sunday afternoon led by Mr. Swanson who was so knowledgeable. He took us through the highlights, mentioning interesting stories and interacted with his audience to keep them engaged and entertained. He knows so much about the city and its history, a true gem of a guide with an unique background who is happy to volunteer his time and knowledge. The travel tips he gave me were all excellent as well. Thank you so much!

Nice museum to explore the history of the city

This was a quaint museum located near Lincoln Park that explores the history of the city itself. I don't like to write negative reviews, but I found the museum to be relatively mundane. A few exhibits were interesting (sports, gangsters, jazz), but considering the cost of admission I would recommend checking out the Field Museum or The Museum of Science and Industry instead if you're pinched for time. An exhibit featuring the great Chicago Fire is set to open in October and that might make visiting more worthwhile.

Amazing place explained about all chicago past event until actuality recomment go to this museum.

Well curated exhibition. I went with my husband and we both enjoyed it and learned a lot of interesting tidbits about Chicago’s history. Plan to spend 1-2hrs. It’s not very large but does have a lot of material to read (though it’s well written and accompanied by cool historical objects).

This museum has a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that capture the history and culture of Chicago. Nice way to spend an hour or two if you're in the neighborhood.

I took my two pre teen sons on a Sunday early afternoon. Parking was close and only $10 with validation. The museum itself was very nice and maintained. 2 hours would be sufficient time here.

Amazing museum. Super friendly museum staff

Great place to visit for a nice afternoon. Had a bite to eat at the Museum Cafe. Good food & even better fries!!

I love the place where i get to play a guitar and take a piece of the sphere shape thing home

I went to the museum today 8/28/21 and had a wonderful experience. Plenty to see and the Vivian Maier exhibit was an added plus. I have been trying to come here for years to the new location and was lucky enough today to have some time to make a visit. The staff was friendly, the restrooms were immaculate and the rests of the museum was spotless. If you have the time and need a little break, checkout their Cafe and maybe next time I will try something else on the menu besides the crispy fries. The crispy fries were good and the price for most food items tended to be a little high, like I saw a hot dog priced for $8.00. The staff at the Cafe were courteous and very polite, the food was quickly brought to your table and the Cafe; like the rests of the museum was spotless. If you get the chance make a visit to the Historical Museum, the experience is worth the admission price. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The admission price 19.00 for adults and children are free and students are 17.00. That is pretty low compared to the Field Museum which I paid 27.00 and the Art Institute almost 30.00 because the exhibit there are extra and here the exhibit VM was for free.

Very interesting place with tons of history. My favorite part was the preindustrial history of Chicago. This city has an incredible history and this museum does a great job of documenting it.

Nice and clean place. I would recommend to get the ticket beforehand. Even the cafe here is also very good and serves good food

Staff was very helpful, gave my friend a wheelchair upon request, free of charge. The cafe there was really good, 100% worth the money. Will be going back again next time I'm in Chicago.

I decided to visit this museum because I haven't been in years. They have some great exhibits. The Chicago fire of 1871, The Polish museum, remembering Dr. King, history on blues and jazz, and much more. I enjoyed it all. I recommend taking a day to visit. Very peaceful and relaxing.

Educational, interesting, and reasonably priced. The Great Chicago Fire exhibit is not to be missed. You're likely to spend about half a day here, so.plan accordingly.

I enjoyed myself here. I suggest though to not bring younger kids to read all the Information posted. It is a family venue and younger kids have their share of fun, interactive displays.

Really interesting set of exhibits across Chicago’s history, its key leaders and what makes Chicago a great city. Wish that there were more advanced concepts in the museum to help connect with the past better.

Such a hidden gem. Although the kid’s area is small it is highly engaging and worth the visit. The entire Chicago Fire exhibit was highly educational. It also made the tragedy feel much more real by sharing actual narrative and first hand experiences. The exhibit also had engaging experiences for children to relate. Parking is a bit of a walk so recommend being aware of the weather when visiting.

Nice smaller museum. You can get through all the exhibits in a single visit. The exhibit on unrest in Chicago was especially interesting. Worth a visit!

Stumbled across this museum after walking back from Lincoln Park Zoo. Wow! What an amazing museum. Really powerful, eerie and an excellent source of information to discovering what Chicago is really like and how it revitalized itself after the Great Fire. Definitely recommend visiting.

Wonderful museum covering Chicago's history. Very well done exhibits good for children and adults! Really enjoyed my visit and learned a lot of new things about Chicago! Highly recommend a visit!

This place has everything. I could be in here for hours looking at and reading everything. The gentleman who holds your coats and bags for you when you arrive, is one of the nicest people I met while in town. I recommend this place, for those who love the city and are passionate about history.

First time here today with friends b4 going out to dinner. Great exhibits over a couple floors. Spend a hour or two without having to cover a lot of flour space. Love that these days.