Community Invited to Join Tours of the Obama Presidential Center

August 20, 2025 at 3:00 PM CDT

CHICAGO – The Obama Foundation is inviting community members to join free monthly public tours to see the campus come together and get a virtual peek inside the Obama Presidential Center. These monthly community tours are slated to run through November 2025, offering attendees the opportunity to learn more about the vision for the Center while they walk along the site’s perimeter.

Preregistration is not required to participate in tours. Visitors will be able to stop by an information table outside the site, ask questions of Foundation staff, check out renderings of the full campus, and join a guided walking tour of the perimeter. These walking tours offer a preview of what’s to come—from the iconic Museum, Forum and Chicago Public Library buildings to the gardens and public gathering spaces—while connecting visitors with the values that shape The Obama Foundation’s work.

“We want to welcome our neighbors to the site so that they can begin to imagine how they will use and enjoy the Obama Presidential Center,” said Josh Harris, Vice President of Public Engagement at The Obama Foundation. “We’re inviting our neighbors and all Chicagoans to engage with this project as it comes to life. Whether you're walking the site’s perimeter or stopping by a coffee shop during our 77 Neighborhood Tour, there are many ways to learn, connect, and be inspired.”

The upcoming community tour dates are:

  • Tuesday, September 30 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

  • Saturday, October 18 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

  • Saturday, November 15 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

In addition, anyone in the world can join free monthly virtual information sessions. Sign up at https://www.obama.org/stories/obama-presidential-center-virtual-information-session/ .  

The installation of the museum exhibits inside the Obama Presidential Center is also officially underway. The museum, currently under construction, spans 42,683 square feet across four levels and will feature 35 unique exhibit structures and more than 50 pieces of linear and interactive media. These exhibits will allow visitors to reflect on the history of the Obama presidency, explore the movement and moments that shaped our democracy, and consider their own power to drive change in their communities.

In addition to campus perimeter tours, the Foundation is also hosting a 77 Neighborhood tour —visiting each of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods for Meet N Greets to answer questions, share updates, and connect more people with the vision for the Center's opening in 2026. These events take place in local coffee shops, libraries, festivals, and small businesses, encouraging conversation and connection. 

The Obama Presidential Center is scheduled to open in 2026.

To learn more or explore the Obama Presidential Center, visit: obama.org/presidential-center .

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Contact: Emily Bittner, press@obama.org 

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  • The Museum

    The Obama Presidential Center Museum is a world-class landmark that tells the story of our democracy through the lens of America’s first Black president and First Lady. Dynamic exhibits across four floors will highlight the events, policies, challenges, and accomplishments of the Obama presidency. The Museum is comprised of four levels of exhibitions and the Sky Room, a 5,000 square foot space that offers soul-stirring perspective and panoramic views of Chicago. Entry to the Museum is by time-ticket or event participation. Monday | 1 - 8 p.m. CTTuesday - Sunday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. CT

  • Forum Building

    The Forum Building is a vibrant community center that celebrates creativity and innovation. The Forum’s two levels are brought to life through power performances at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium, creative forms of expression in the Media Suite, and collaborative thinking in the Democracy in Action Labs. The Forum also features the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium, Tafari’s Kitchen, our Cafe, two courtyards, and one-of-kind pieces of art by Theaster Gates, Spencer Finch, and Tyanna Buie. Monday | 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

  • Home Court

    Home Court is a 60,000-square-foot athletic and events space designed to strengthen the entire community and motivate people of all ages. Home Court offers programs inspired by President Obama's belief in the power of sports, mentorship, and connection. The two level space includes an NBA-sized regulation basketball court, seven flexible multipurpose rooms, two outdoor courtyards, and several multi-level seating areas for visitors.Monday - Sunday 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. CT

  • Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

    Libraries are the beating heart of a strong democratic culture. Here we welcome local residents, scholars, and visitors from around the world to connect, reflect, and act. The Obama Presidential Center campus features a new branch of the Chicago Public Library that celebrates the rich history of Chicago’s public libraries and the powerful legacy of the Obamas. The Library Branch includes a YOUMedia Suite, a City Maker’s Space, a Children’s Area, and the exclusive President’s Reading Room, a collection of written works that reflect the interests, histories, and readings of President and Mrs. Obama.Mon & Wed12 - 8 p.m. CTTues & Thur10 a.m. - 6 p.m. CTFri & Sat9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CTSun1 -5 p.m. CT

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