General Admission to the museum includes all permanent and temporary exhibitions. Check out all of our exhibitions

Whisk away to a time when Chicago's rich and famous caroused on the coast.

Cycle back to 1893 with Greg Borzo, author of Where to Bike Chicago. Pedal past sites related to the world’s fair and discover its lasting influence on Chicago. Uncover Daniel Burnham’s grand plans and the devilish doings of H. H. Holmes. Tour includes 20 miles of biking and ends at Midway Plaisance Park in Hyde Park.

Explore the history of the Sheffield/DePaul neighborhood, from its earliest German settlers to today's well-heeled residents.

Sick of the same old after-work grind? Grab your pals and head on over for History Happy Hour! This monthly series features a deluxe spirits or beer tasting plus flash tours highlighting our diverse collection.

General admission is free for Illinois residents on Tuesday evenings; purchase a ticket to History Happy Hour to enhance your experience.

Join us, raise a glass, and learn more about this city you love!

Must be 21+ to purchase a ticket to History Happy Hour. Ticket includes craft beer tasting, tours, and museum admission.

MEMBERS - LOGIN AT UPPER RIGHT BEFORE SELECTING TICKETS.
Join director of research and access Ellen Keith and reference librarian Lesley Martin in the Research Center, where we’ll use Sanborn Fire Insurance maps to take a virtual walk through the past. With maps that document each building, you can explore Comiskey Park in 1956, Wrigley Field in the1920s, Riverview Amusement Park in 1950, and both world’s fairs. With luck, maybe you’ll find we have a map that shows your own street! FREE, but space is limited; RSVP required.

MEMBERS - LOGIN AT UPPER RIGHT BEFORE SELECTING TICKETS. Celebrate the opening of our newest fashion exhibition in style. This event features curator-led talks, exhibition staff available to answer your questions, a live band, and food and drinks from the era. So blow your wig and get dizzy with us!

Celebrate Chicago’s musical legacy with a day of creative activities and experiences designed for families. Inspired by our exhibition Amplified: Chicago Blues, this program features make-and-take crafts, storytelling, and more. Listen to live music, play blues bingo, and stop by our photobooth.

 $10, $5 members. Free for kids 12 and under

*Ticket price includes hot cocoa for kids and coffee for their grown-ups. Designed for families with children ages 12 and younger; all are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult and vice versa. Max four children per adult.

Meet at Chicago Line Cruises, 465 N McClurg Ct. Tour runs about 90min. Boarding begins at 6:30 P.M. Includes 2 complimentary beverages. 

Sit back and take in the skyline at sunset as CHM's John Russick narrates the history of art deco buildings along the river. Highlights include the Mather Tower, Merchandise Mart, and Civic Opera House.