The Obama Presidential Center features 5 audio guides to help you through your journey at the Center. Download the app or follow along online to hear about the art, creation, and story of the campus. The audio guide options also include one specifically curated for children and an Audio Described Guide for those with visual impairments. 

Begin your visit to the Obama Presidential Center with a stroll through the revitalized Women’s Garden, originally designed by May Addams in 1937. The garden features Alison Saar’s Torch Song , a bronze sculpture celebrating the legacy of Black female voices across history.

Enjoy performances from local DJs, take in a movie showing, or join a karaoke session at the Plaza. While there, visit Martin Puryear’s Bending the Arc and the President and Mrs. Obamas’ commemorative inauguration statue.

Step into the Forum and explore art work installed across two floors. On the lower level are Spencer Finch’s Memory Landscape , Be the Change! by Tyanna J. Buie, and Hem of Heaven from Nekisha Durrett. The main level features Theaster Gates’ American Vista and To See What They Could See, photographic installations honoring the lives of Black women through the 20th century.

Take home an one-of-a-kind souvenir from the Obama Presidential Center. Our branch of the Chicago Public Library offers a library card specifically designed for the Center. Non-Chicago residents can still claim this iconic piece of memorabilia for just $5, while supplies last.

Named in honor of President Obama’s mother, the Ann Dunham Water Terrace features Seeing Through the Universe , an art installation from renowned sculptor Maya Lin. TThe sculpture features two 10,000-pound stones and a sensory water element inspired by the relationship between the President and Mrs. Obama. 

Head to one of our open courtyards to sit down, relax, and take in some art. The Rachel Carson Reading Garden features one of the last known works of iconic Chicago sculptor Richard Hunt, Bookbird , while the Crown Courtyard contains Quintessence, a series of sculpted stars by Jay Heikes.  

Walk around this rooftop sanctuary to discover dozens of native fruits and vegetables including watermelons, eggplants, and kale, depending on the season. If you have time, sign-up for a free roof-top gardening class conducted year-round.  

Hop along the Wetland Walk’s stepping stones to discover local wildlife and vegetation including wildflowers, warblers, and waterfowl. Perfect for families, the Wetland Walk features educational plaques to help young visitors learn more about our eco-system. 

The Great Lawn is the ultimate place to kick back. Grab your latest book and sprawl out on the grassy hill in summer, or bring your sled once the snows come. 

Experience our nature-themed, two level Playground including with sensory nooks, dual slides, a mud kitchen garden, and ADA-accessible swings. The inclusively designed Playground features side-by-side play equipment to support children of all abilities. 

Stroll or cycle along the Promenade, a new route that connects the Center through Jackson Park all the way to the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. You’ll get the chance to see the Women’s Garden, Yoko Ono's Sky Landing, and the Cherry Trees, which are typically in bloom from late March through early June.