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John Lewis Plaza

Named in honor of late Civil Rights leader Congressman John Lewis, the John Lewis Plaza is a lively and animated outdoor space that welcomes visitors to the Center. The Plaza–which serves as an entry point for the Forum, Museum, and Library buildings–is a dynamic hub built to foster the spirit of community that was central to the legacy and work of Congressman Lewis.
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What To Do and See In The Plaza

bending the arc

Bending the Arc

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YAA

“You Are America”

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Performances

Performances

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The Legacy of John Lewis 

Congressman John Lewis stands as one of the most enduring and inspirational icons of our time. His life and legacy is one that made the Obamas’ journeys possible and his work with The Obama Foundation–through My Brother’s Keeper and other programs–continued to inspire our pursuit of a more just and fair global community.

John Lewis
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A young boy wearing glasses and a baseball cap blows bubbles at an outdoor community event, framed by a blue graphic border.

Grand Opening Weekend Celebration (Fri.)

Fri, Jun 19 11:00am - 3:00pm John Lewis Plaza

Free

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A young boy wearing glasses and a baseball cap blows bubbles at an outdoor community event, framed by a blue graphic border.

Grand Opening Weekend Celebration (Sat.)

Sat, Jun 20 10:00am - 5:00pm John Lewis Plaza

Free

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A young boy wearing glasses and a baseball cap blows bubbles at an outdoor community event, framed by a blue graphic border.

Grand Opening Weekend Celebration (Sun.)

Sun, Jun 21 10:00am - 5:00pm John Lewis Plaza

Free

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Children sit together outdoors at dusk, watching a performance with focused expressions as a crowd gathers behind them.

The People's Fourth

Sat, Jul 04 2:00pm - 7:00pm John Lewis Plaza

Free

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DJ Lady D performs at a house music party

House Music on the Plaza

Fri, Jul 10 2:00pm - 4:00pm John Lewis Plaza

Free

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A musician in a bright suit sits holding a trombone, capturing a close-up moment before a performance.

Side By Side with Chicago Philharmonic

Mon, Jul 27 5:30pm - 7:30pm John Lewis Plaza

Free

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A person with short brown hair and sunglasses holding a young child grabs a mic on an outdoor stage

Karaoke on the Plaza

Tue, Aug 04 3:00pm - 5:00pm John Lewis Plaza

Free

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Things To Explore Near The Plaza

  • The Forum

    Explore the Forum, a vibrant community center that celebrates creativity and innovation. 

  • Obama Presidential Center Museum

    Visit the Obama Presidential Center Museum, a world-class landmark that tells the story of our democracy through the lens of America’s first Black president and first lady. 

Plan Your Visit

  • Getting to the Campus

    Map out your route to our campus before you visit.

  • Museum

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

  • Accessibility

    Check out all of the accessibility options across our campus.

  • Sky Room

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

  • The Shop

    Shop with purpose at the Obama Presidential Center store, where every purchase of curated merchandise and local artisan goods helps to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.

  • Programs and Events

    Take a look at the performances, activities, and classes happening across the campus.