President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama will inaugurate the Obama Presidential Center with a ceremony livestreamed on Thursday. Located in Chicago’s Jackson Park, the center spans nearly 20 acres. It features outdoor park and garden areas, a museum, dining venues, a full-size NBA regulation basketball court, and a public library.
Location and Access
The Obama Presidential Center is situated at 6001 S. Stony Island Ave. in Chicago.
Transportation Options
Public Transit: For fare information, route schedules, and maps, visit transitchicago.com.
- Bus: Buses No. 6 Jackson Park Express, No. 10 Obama Presidential Center/Museum of Science & Industry Express, No. 15 Jeffery Local, and No. 28 Stony Island make stops in front of the campus.
- “L” Train: From the north, use the Red or Green lines to exit at Garfield Boulevard station. From the south, use the Red line to exit at 63rd Street station or the Green line to exit at Cottage Grove station, then connect to a bus route.
- Metra: Visit metra.com for schedules and maps. The nearest Metra Electric stops are 59th Street (University of Chicago) and 63rd Street.
Rideshare: Pickup and drop-off happen on Stony Island Avenue in front of the campus.
Bikes: Divvy stations and bike racks are available on Stony Island Avenue at 56th and 64th streets.
Parking Information
On-site parking is available at the center’s garage, though capacity is limited. Enter from Stony Island Avenue between the Forum and Home Court. The garage uses ticketless entry; a smartphone is required for payment via the Metropolis app. Parking rates vary. Accessible parking spots are available.
Operational Hours
Campus: Open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Museum: Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Sunday, and 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday. Last entry is at 4 p.m., except Mondays at 7 p.m.
Visiting the Museum
Tickets: Timed tickets for the museum can be reserved at tickets.obama.org. You can book up to nine tickets, but they are non-transferable. The public library, parks, and playground are free and open every day.
Pricing:
- Adults (12+ years): $30; Illinois residents pay $26.
- Children (3-11 years): $23; Illinois residents pay $15.
- Free general admission for Illinois residents every Tuesday, sold out through November.
- Discounts for educators, school groups, military personnel, their families, and first responders, to be purchased in advance.
Guided Tours
Guided tours are available. More details on dining, events, tours, and beyond can be found at tickets.obama.org/events.