Hi there,

The biggest thing I underestimated about the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago was how much time we'd want there. We spent about six hours: three in the Museum and the rest having lunch and exploring the campus with our toddler.

If you're planning a visit, I put together two guides and a Chicago vlog to help you plan your day without giving away everything inside the Museum.

Start with the first-timer's guide

This covers how to get timed Museum tickets, when ticket availability is updated, what security was like, and how much time to allow. I also share the details I wanted to know before going, from bringing a stroller to taking a lunch break at Tafari's Kitchen.

Read my Obama Center first-timer's guide →

No Museum ticket? There is still plenty to see

Don't overlook the Chicago Public Library branch, the Eleanor Roosevelt Fruit and Vegetable Garden, the Great Lawn and the rest of the outdoor campus. The President's Reading Room was one of my favorite stops.

The campus grounds are open daily, with longer hours than the Museum. Individual spaces have their own schedules. My second guide breaks down what you can visit without paid Museum admission, including Home Court, the Forum, public art and dining, plus the separate ticket requirement for the Sky Room.

See what you can do without a Museum ticket →

Come along in the Chicago vlog

We start at Cloud Gate (The Bean), stop at Lurie Garden and Buckingham Fountain, then head to Navy Pier and the lakefront. The next day is the Obama Center and campus, followed by a nightcap at the Palmer House. You'll get a feel for the visit without seeing every Museum exhibit.

Watch the Chicago and Obama Center vlog →

Is the Obama Center on your Chicago list? Hit reply and tell me what you'd most like to see.

See you on the next adventure!

Kim
Work Hard Travel Well