Level 3: Working for the Common Good

When President Obama took office in January 2009, America was in crisis. The country was fighting several conflicts abroad and navigating an economic downturn domestically. Working for the Common Good examines the achievements of the Obama administration across two presidential terms. Explore landmark international deals, such as the Paris Agreement, and learn about the passage of life-changing laws, such as the Affordable Care Act.
Museum Map
President Obama sits at a desk signing the Affordable Care Act, surrounded by a group of politicians, then Vice President Joe Biden, and a young boy.

Highlights

Protecting and Defending

Dive into President Obama’s role as wartime Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. military. Take a look at several of the administration’s carefully weighed decisions in the fight against terrorism and the preservation of national security. See artifacts about the raid on Osama bin Laden and President Obama’s repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Hear firsthand accounts of military veterans and active service members.

President Obama wears a black leather jacket as he sits around a conference room table with a soldier and two other men with light skin tones.
First Lady Michelle Obama

Celebrate the woman who redefined the role of First Lady in a lively exhibit that illustrates Mrs. Obama’s strength of purpose. Dive deep through her time in the White House and her initiatives, Let’s Move!, Joining Forces, Let Girls Learn, and Reach Higher.

President and Mrs. Obama stand and chat with students at Coral Reed Senior High School. All are a range of light to dark skin tones.

More on the Museum

Toward a more 1:1
Level 2: Toward a More Perfect Union
See what is possible when ordinary people work together to enact change.
Learn more
Peoples House 1:1
Level 4: The People’s House
Explore the presidential family’s time in the White House.
Learn more

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  • 6001 S. Stony Island Ave.
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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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