Explore Chicago's Rich Heritage at the Chicago History Museum
Discover Chicago's vibrant past at the Chicago History Museum, a cultural hub filled with engaging exhibits and rich stories.
Dive into the fascinating past of Chicago at the Chicago History Museum. This cultural gem offers a wealth of exhibits showcasing the city’s storied history, making it a must-visit destination for any tourist.
A brief summary to Chicago History Museum
- 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, Lincoln Park, Illinois, 60614, US
- +1312-642-4600
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Check the museum's calendar for special exhibitions and events during your visit.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits and artifacts.
- Don't miss the museum shop for unique souvenirs and books related to Chicago's history.
- Plan your visit around lunchtime to enjoy a delightful meal at the museum's café.
Getting There
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Public Transit - Train
From Arlington Heights train station, take the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line towards Chicago O'Hare. Get off at the 'Harold Washington Library' station. From there, transfer to the 'Pink Line' and get off at 'Western' station. Walk east on 18th St toward S Western Ave, then turn left onto S Western Ave and continue walking until you reach the 'California' station. From 'California', take the 'Blue Line' towards 'O'Hare', and get off at 'Washington' station. Finally, walk east on Washington St and continue until you reach the Chicago History Museum located at 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614.
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Public Transit - Bus
From the Arlington Heights area, take the Pace bus number 696 towards 'Schaumburg'. Get off at the 'Schaumburg' station and transfer to the Pace bus number 800 towards 'Elk Grove Village'. Once at the 'Elk Grove Village', change to the Pace bus number 600 towards 'Chicago'. Get off at the 'Clark St & Armitage Ave' stop, then walk south on Clark St until you reach the Chicago History Museum at 1601 N Clark St.
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Bicycle
If you are comfortable biking, you can rent a bike from a local service in Arlington Heights. Head south on Arlington Heights Rd until you reach the intersection with Northwest Hwy (IL-14). Turn left and continue to follow Northwest Hwy until you reach the intersection with W Dempster St. Turn right onto W Dempster St and continue until you reach N Clark St. Turn right onto N Clark St and bike south until you arrive at the Chicago History Museum at 1601 N Clark St.
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Walking
If you are close enough to the area, you can simply walk. Starting from the downtown Arlington Heights area, head southwest on E Campbell St until you reach S Arlington Heights Rd. Turn right and walk south until you reach E Northwest Hwy (IL-14). Cross over to the other side and continue walking south until you reach the intersection with N Clark St. Turn left and walk south on Clark St until you arrive at the Chicago History Museum at 1601 N Clark St.
Discover more about Chicago History Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Couch Tomb
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Explore the Couch Tomb, a historic monument in Lincoln Park, Chicago, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's rich past.
Abraham Lincoln: The Man
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Old Town sign Chicago
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Henry Gerber House
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Old Town Triangle District
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Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Chicago's Old Town Triangle District, where Victorian architecture meets vibrant culture and delectable dining.
Charnley-Persky House Museum
0.6 km
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Hidden Truths Historical Marker
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Ulysses S. Grant Monument
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Bridge over South Pond
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Washington Square Park
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Windy City Ghosts
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360 CHICAGO
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875 North Michigan Avenue
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Chicago,IL Historical Water Tower
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Chicago Water Tower
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lincoln (Abraham) Park
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International Museum of Surgical Science
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South Pond
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North Avenue Beach
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Gold Coast
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Old Town
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Zebra Lounge
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Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo
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Lincoln Park Zoo
1.1 km
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Mariano (Louis) Park
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Regenstein African Journey
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Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove
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Essential places to dine
The Ambassador Room
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3rd Coast Cafe
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Mario's Table
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Geja's Cafe
0.9 km
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La Storia, Italian Restaurant
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Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
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Somerset
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LUXBAR
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Tavern On Rush
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FIG & OLIVE
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Boka
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Alinea
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Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
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Summer House Santa Monica
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The Cheesecake Factory
1.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Judy Maxwell Home
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Kay's Boutique
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Stone Island Chicago
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Gucci
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900 North Michigan Shops
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Mary Walter Boutique
1.8 km
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MCA Store
1.8 km
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Mary Mary Gifts
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art effect
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M.M.LaFleur Chicago Store
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Saks Fifth Avenue
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ikram
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P.O.S.H.
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Marshalls
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Chicago Souvenir Company
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Boutique
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Butch McGuire's
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The Original Mother's
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She-nannigans
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Hopsmith Chicago
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The Lodge Tavern
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Gold Coast Social
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Sparrow
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Martini Bar
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CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO
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King of Cups
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Pippin’s Tavern
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Z Bar
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Bar on 4
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The Green Door Tavern
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