Illinois Free Days

Illinois residents receive FREE General Admission to the Presidential Center Museum every Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. CT! While visiting the Museum be sure to explore our 19.3 acre campus, open daily and free to the public.
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Reserve Your Tickets 

Reserve Tickets

Illinois Free Day tickets to the Obama Presidential Center Museum are now available. Please note that capacity limits remain the same on Illinois Free Days, so we strongly encourage you to reserve your tickets online and in advance of your trip. 

To reserve your ticket (Opens in a new tab) , select a Tuesday time slot, add Illinois Resident General Admission tickets to your cart, then input your Illinois zip code to checkout. Upon arrival to the Museum, you must present a current Illinois driver's license, state ID, or Chicago CityKey card at the ticket desk to establish proof of residency. If you do not have an Illinois identification card, you may establish residency by showing a valid photo ID along with one of the following:

  • Illinois lease

  • Illinois library card

  • Illinois student ID with photo

  • Illinois utility bill

  • Illinois work ID and check stub

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Discounted Tickets
The Museum offers discounted and complimentary tickets for select groups. See if you qualify.
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Education at the Center
All schools in Illinois are eligible for free tickets to the Museum exhibitions, subject to availability. Explore the Center’s offerings tailored for students and educators.
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Garden Gatherings
Join free, open-house gatherings featuring live music, gardening activities, and more.
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Plan Your Visit

  • Getting to the Campus

    Map out your route to our campus before you visit.

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  • Museum

    Explore the remarkable story of President Obama and Michelle Obama and those who inspired their journey.

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  • Sky Room

    Head to the top of the Museum and take in stunning views of the West and South Sides of Chicago. 

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  • Accessibility

    Check out all of the accessibility options across our campus.

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  • Dining

    Nourish your soul (and stomach) with our dining options brought to you through a new collaboration between Bon Appétit Management and Chicago’s own Chef Cliff Rome. 

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  • Shop

    Take home exclusive merchandise inspired by the city of Chicago, the Obamas’ legacy, and the Presidential Center campus. 

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Campus Visitor Policy

A few things to know before heading to the Obama Presidential Center.

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  • 6001 S. Stony Island Ave.
  • 1-(773)-900-0044
  • 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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The Obama Foundation is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization on a mission to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world. Read more  about our tax-exempt status.

© 2026 The Barack Obama Foundation.

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