At 740 E 56th Pl in Washington Park, the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center explores African American art, history and culture, with a particular focus on Chicago. Its collection spans more than 15,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, photographs and historical artifacts. Exhibits trace Black experiences from enslavement through the Civil Rights Movement and connect Chicago stories with national and international history. Look for the museum’s augmented-reality experience, which lets you scan artifacts and images, and check for special exhibitions such as Paris in Black.
A museum devoted to Black history and culture
Founded in 1961, the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center is one of the country’s oldest independent institutions focused on African American history, culture and art. It is named for Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a Haitian of African and French descent who established a trading post and permanent settlement in 1779. That settlement became Chicago.
The museum’s collection contains more than 15,000 objects. Paintings, sculptures, photographs, print works and historical artifacts tell stories of African American achievement and experience. The focus reaches beyond Chicago, placing local history in national and international contexts.
What to see inside
Exhibits cover the long arc of Black history, including enslavement and the Civil Rights Movement. Displays also explore the lives and work of notable Chicagoans, among them Fred Hampton, Kathryn Magnolia Johnson and Harold Washington. The museum’s interpretation connects individual stories with the larger history of African Americans in the United States.
Paris in Black is one exhibition to look for. It examines Black artists and performers, including their experiences in the United States and migration to Paris. The museum also presents special exhibitions, workshops and lectures focused on artists, historical events and collections brought in from other institutions or individuals. Check what is on during your visit, as exhibitions change.
Using the augmented-reality experience
The museum has an augmented-reality experience that starts when you scan selected artifacts and images. It adds a digital layer to objects on display, giving you another way to engage with the collection. Set aside time to explore it as you move through the exhibits rather than treating the museum as a quick stop.
A visit of at least three hours gives you time to take in the displays and browse the gift shop. The museum is in Washington Park, and its grounds provide space to pause outside after your visit.
Tickets and practical details
Admission is free on Wednesdays. Reserve a ticket online before heading to the museum, and check the booking details for the day you plan to visit. The museum also lists free parking, including a parking lot and street parking. A wheelchair-accessible elevator and parking are available.
The museum is at 740 E 56th Pl in Chicago. Its facilities include a theater, gift shop and restaurant, and it runs tours and educational programs. If you are choosing exhibits in advance, check for Paris in Black and displays on Chicago’s first Black mayor.
Perguntas frequentes
When is admission free at the DuSable Black History Museum?
Admission is free on Wednesdays. Reserve a ticket online before your visit.
How long should I spend at the museum?
Plan for at least three hours to explore the exhibits and gift shop.
What can you see at the DuSable Black History Museum?
The collection includes more than 15,000 objects related to African American art, history and culture. Exhibits cover subjects from enslavement and the Civil Rights Movement to Chicago figures and Black artists in Paris.
Is there parking at the museum?
Free parking is listed for the museum, including a parking lot and street parking.
