The Obama Presidential Center opened on June 19, 2026 in Jackson Park, Chicago.
It’s very different from other libraries filled with historical documents of past presidents.
This is a community space for everyone of all ages, “designed to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.”
Inscribed at the top of the Museum are Obama’s words from his speech “You Are America” (photo above).
“The single most powerful word in our democracy is the word ‘We.’ ‘We The People.’ ‘We Shall Overcome.’ ‘Yes We Can.’ That word is owned by no one. It belongs to everyone.”
The Museum has four levels of exhibits and interactive activities.
In the Oval Office, sit down in the president’s chair behind the desk. Or check out exhibit of Michelle Obama’s iconic outfits – suit coat, dresses, boots, gowns, shoes.
On the fourth level is the Sky Room, with panoramic views of Chicago. In the ceiling, artwork Sky of Hope is comprised of the words from Obama’s speech for 50th anniversary of Selma civil rights marches.
Elie Wiesel Auditorium is a space for lectures, music, dance, poetry presentations, by speakers and performers from all over the globe.
On-site is a Cafe for snacks, and Tafari Kitchen restaurant with dishes created by a local Chicago chef.
On the menu is Obama Family Chili and Mrs. Robinson’s Red Rice. Michelle Obama’s mother, Mrs. Robinson, lived with the family at the White House.
Be sure to stop into this branch of Chicago Public Library.
Juneteeth, opening day for the Obama Presidential Center, Michelle and Barack Obama showed up at the branch library. They came to read the story Where the Wild Things Are to local Chicago elementary school kids.
In the Children’s Area are picture books and room to spread out and read. For older kids, check out the President’s Reading Room with favorite books chosen by Barack and Michelle Obama.
Here’s a video of the Obamas reading a children’s book about the amazing power of words: Storytime with the Obamas
Large playground is an oasis for toddlers with swings and slides, ropes to climb and play for older kids, restrooms, there picnic tables throughout the campus, and a great lawn to run around.
Start with information for first time visitors, a short visit, or all day experience.
Outdoor areas and public library are free, for the Museum you’ll need timed-entry tickets: Museum tickets
The campus area is open daily, 6am – 9pm.
For your visit to Chicago, also check out Travel for Kids fun things to do with kids, and list of best family hotels.
We were so inspired about the Obama Presidential Center, we whipped up a batch of Obama Family Chili.
Obama Family Chili Recipe
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
5 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 lb ground turkey or beef
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground oregano
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
1 Tbsp chili powder
3 Tbsp red-wine vinegar
28-ounce can peeled tomatoes, chopped
29-ounce can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Heat the olive oil in a large pan on medium-high heat
Add onions, green pepper, garlic and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add meat to the pan. Once the meat has browned, add the spices.
Stir in red-wine vinegar and tomatoes. Cook for couple of minutes.
Stir in kidney beans.
Cook the chili covered for 15 minutes on medium-low heat.
Dollop with grated cheese and sour cream, serve with cornbread
Note: We didn’t drain the tomatoes, and cooked it longer, about 30 min.
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