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The Campus

The Obama Presidential Center is a vibrant 19.3 acre campus located in Chicago’s historic Jackson Park. Designed to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world, the campus features a diverse array of public spaces. Head to the Museum to learn who shaped our democracy. Enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors at the Women’s Garden or the Wetland Walk. Grab a book at the Library. The campus is open daily, free of charge, for all to enjoy.

Highlights

People walk by the “Yes We Can” exhibit inside the Museum Building. The exhibit is a large circular structure with words that say “Yes We Can” in wooden letters. An exhibit screen is in the background.
Obama Presidential Center Museum

Discover a global destination that tells the story of the Obamas, alongside the power of ordinary people coming together to do extraordinary things. Get a close-up look at life in the Obama White House and explore the movements that shaped President and Mrs. Obama, brought to life through captivating exhibits, unique artifacts, and hands-on interactions. 

Mon | 1 - 8 p.m.
Tues - Sun | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Timed entry required.

The Forum

Engage with new ideas, celebrate your creativity, and connect with your community at the Forum. Head inside to meet up with friends in the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium, watch a performance at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium, or record a song in the Media Suite.

Mon | 1 - 8 p.m.
Tues - Sun | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.


*Events at the Auditorium may vary. 

Home Court

Featuring an NBA regulation-size court and flexible rooms built to empower the next generations, this is our home for athletics and global leadership programs.

Mon - Sun | 12 - 8 p.m.

Obama Presidential Center's Chicago Public Library Branch

Lose yourself in the new Chicago Public Library branch. Take a look at our interactive media area, read one of the Obamas’ favorite books in the Presidential Reading Room, or relax in a quiet space for work and reading.

Mon & Wed
12 - 8 p.m. CT


Tues & Thur
10 a.m. - 6 p.m. CT


Fri & Sat
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CT


Sun
1 -5 p.m. CT

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John Lewis Plaza

Connect with your community in a vibrant outdoor space that celebrates the spirit and legacy of Congressman John Lewis. 

Mon - Sun
6 a.m. - 9 p.m. CT

Eleanor Roosevelt Fruit and Vegetable Garden

Celebrate the legacy of two extraordinary First Ladies as you learn how to grow and make your own food. You can find dozens of garden beds or local plants and native vegetables.  

Mon - Sun | 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Playground

Leap into our new vision for play! This joyful outdoor space is perfect for children of all ages and abilities. Inspired by the great outdoors and our local environment, the playground features two levels of equipment, an ADA accessible swing set, a slide, and much more.

Mon - Sun | 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

The Great Lawn

Enjoy casual afternoon picnics or make new memories sledding in the winter on this sprawling 58,000 square foot lawn.

Mon - Sun
6 a.m. - 9 p.m. CT

More on Campus

  • Art Collection

    Discover more than 25 brand-new art installations from creators across the globe. The vast majority are free and publicly accessible. 

  • Ann Dunham Water Terrace

    Celebrate the life and legacy of President Obama's mother in a stunning outdoor space featuring a sculpture by artist Maya Lin.

  • Women's Garden

    The restored garden provides a serene environment, ideal for a tranquil stroll. The Garden, originally created in tribute to the efforts of female leaders in Chicago, is a living memorial to the power of civic participation. 

  • Wetland Walk

    Take in the majesty of nature along walking paths designed for sustainability and accessibility.

An illustration of a deer, a butterfly on a flower, and a cardinal in the sky next to a big yellow son. Gradient blue ocean waves are in the background.

Land Acknowledgement

The Obama Foundation is committed to empowering and uplifting Indigenous voices and perspectives as together we strive to realize a vibrant democratic culture.

Learn More

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