American Toby Jug Museum: A Quirky Collection

4.3 (50)

Explore the world's largest collection of Toby and Character jugs at this unique Evanston museum. A quirky and fun experience for all ages!

Home
Illinois
Evanston
American Toby Jug Museum

Home to over 8,000 Toby and Character jugs, the American Toby Jug Museum in Evanston, Illinois, showcases the world's largest collection of these unique figural pitchers. Tracing their history from the mid-18th century to the present day, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into this distinct art form.

A brief summary to American Toby Jug Museum

910 Chicago Ave, Evanston, Illinois, 60202, US
Click to display
Click to display

Tuesday 12 pm-5 pm

Local tips

Check the museum's limited opening hours before visiting, as it's only open on Tuesdays from 12 PM to 5 PM [work_hours].
Admission is free, making it an affordable and interesting outing for families and collectors.
The museum is easily accessible via public transportation, with the Main Street 'L' stop nearby.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Evanston SPACE

Evanston SPACE: An Intimate Music Venue

Evanston History Center

Evanston History Center: Preserving Local Stories

Charles Gates Dawes House

Charles Gates Dawes House: A Glimpse into Evanston's Past

Getting There

Public Transport

The American Toby Jug Museum is easily accessible via public transportation. From downtown Chicago, take the CTA Purple Line to the Main Street station in Evanston. The museum is a short walk from the station. A single ride on the CTA costs $2.50.
Walking

If you are already in downtown Evanston, the museum is located at 910 Chicago Avenue. From Fountain Square, walk north on Sherman Avenue, then turn right onto Chicago Avenue. The museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.
Driving

If driving, the American Toby Jug Museum is located at 910 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202. Street parking is available, but can be limited. Check posted signs for parking regulations. Metered parking costs approximately $2 per hour. Several parking garages are also located in downtown Evanston, within walking distance of the museum.

Discover more about American Toby Jug Museum

The American Toby Jug Museum houses an impressive collection of over 8,000 Toby and Character jugs, making it the largest of its kind globally. Located in Evanston, just north of Chicago, the museum offers a quirky and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.The museum's collection spans the entire history of Toby jugs, from their origins in 18th-century England to contemporary creations. Toby jugs are ceramic pitchers crafted in the form of a full-bodied figure, typically a jovial person. Character jugs, on the other hand, depict just the head and shoulders of a person or character.The museum was founded by Stephen Mullins, who began collecting Toby jugs as a boy in 1947. Over the years, his passion grew, leading him to amass an unparalleled collection. The museum's displays include antique Toby jugs, French majolica pitchers, German jugs, and a vast array of Royal Doulton Character and Toby Jugs. Highlights include the world's largest Toby jug (40 inches tall), the smallest (3/8 inch), and one of the oldest (circa 1760).The American Toby Jug Museum is more than just a display of quirky ceramics; it's a cultural destination that provides insight into the history, artistry, and social context of these unique objects.